When the PR company for Annecy Mountains contacted me to find out if I’d be interested in exploring the region, I jumped at the chance. The brief was right up my street: show the world there is more to the area than just the cute medieval town of Annecy. They wanted me to explore the wider region to showcase why Annecy is the perfect summer destination for adventure lovers. Having spent 4 days exploring the mountains and the lakeside, I have only one regret: that I didn’t stay longer!
In this post, you will find the top things to do in Lake Annecy and the Annecy mountains. But first, let me tell you a little bit about the region.
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Annecy is a charming little town nestled in the heart of the French Alps, just a stone’s throw away from the shores of Lake Annecy. The town is renowned for its picturesque canals, which meander through the ancient streets of the old town, giving it a distinctly Venetian feel. In fact, Annecy is often referred to as the “Venice of the Alps” due to its striking resemblance to the Italian city.
This charming little town attracts hundreds of thousands of tourists every year, all looking for the perfect Instagrammable shot. And I can see why! It is a gorgeous town. However, if you have followed me for long enough, you will know that my favourite activity is to find the more underrated places surrounding the tourist hotspots and shining the light on them instead.
This post will focus on Lake Annecy and the Annecy Mountains. If you are looking for things to do in the town of Annecy, you have come to the wrong place. But if you want to truly immerse yourself in the Annecy region, then read on as I share all my favourite activities from my most recent trip.
Situated in the Haute-Savoie region of France, Lake Annecy is a sight to behold. With its crystal clear turquoise waters, surrounded by verdant green forest and towering snowcapped mountains, the view is nothing short of breathtaking.
Lake Annecy boasts a rich biodiversity, with around 20 endemic species of fish and over 150 species of birds living in and around the lake. In fact, Lake Annecy is considered the cleanest lake in Europe, with crystal clear waters thanks to the strict environmental policies that have been in place since the 1960s.
The lake is fed by many small rivers from the surrounding mountains. Stretching across the Haute-Savoie region, the Annecy mountains are home to a wide variety of fauna and flora, including alpine flowers, chamois, and ibex. From snow-capped peaks to verdant valleys, the Annecy mountains offer a diverse array of truly awe-inspiring landscapes.
In addition to their natural beauty, the Annecy Mountains also have a rich history and culture. The region is home to many traditional Savoyard villages, where ancient customs and traditions are still alive and well, making it the perfect destination for those who want a mix of adventure and culture.
This was hands down the best activity of my trip. It was a spur-of-the-moment decision having seen a kaleidoscope of colourful paragliders soaring high in the sky over the lake. On the recommendation that Col de la Forclaz was the best place to see the lake, I drove up in the late afternoon hoping you get some nice photos during golden hour. When I arrived though, I spotted that the Delta Evasion shop was still open, so I tried my luck for any last-minute availability. As it happened, I was just in time for the final flight of the day. And WOW! It was so much more than I could ever have imagined.
The mountainous terrain of Annecy provides reliable thermal conditions for paragliding, making it one of the best spots in all of Europe. And as luck would have it, that day was one of the best days of the year so far! In fact, it was so good that we stayed up there much longer than intended, simply sitting in the air, absorbing the amazing views around us.
Mont Blanc peaked its head in the distance while the dramatic Aravis range loomed high in front of us as we glided over the smaller Menthon St Benard range. Annecy Lake looked truly majestic from high above. It is a view that shall remain etched in my memory for the rest of my life. A genuinely magnificent experience!
I flew with Delta Evasion and I could not have been happier. They accommodated me last minute and delayed the flight so that I could make it to the meeting point. We also stayed up longer than expected, and the instructor, Gayton, was super charming. If you are looking for someone who will put you at ease, then you can not go wrong here.
Cost of the panoramic flight – €110
Cost of all the Go Pro images and videos – €30
Having ridden horses since a very early age, I may be slightly biased when I say there is no better way to explore the Annecy Mountains than on horseback. It is certainly one of the best summer activities you can do if you are staying in the Lake Annecy region.
You don’t need to be a horse rider to enjoy this region on horseback, as all levels are catered for. One of the great things about exploring the Annecy Mountains by horse is that you can explore areas that are off-limits to cars and other vehicles, giving you the chance to discover some truly incredible scenery, including pristine forests and secluded alpine meadows. It is also much less taxing than hiking! Horses are incredibly adept at traversing rugged terrain, which means you can cover a lot of ground in a short amount of time while still enjoying the breathtaking views.
I was lucky enough to explore two different areas on horseback: the Serraval Mountains with Sandrine from Les Chevaux de la Diamanterie and the Doussard region with Lysiane, from Les Ecuries de Chevaline. Let me tell you about each of them.
Located in the Serraval mountains, on the southeastern shores of Lake Annecy, Sandrine’s set-up is a true hidden gem. She operates a very small-scale business with just 5 horses. Unlike commercial yards where you rock up, get on and get going, at Les Chevaux de la Diamanterie you get to connect with your horse first. I helped Sandrine groom and tack up my trusty steed for the day, Tulippe, before we set off to explore the beautiful Serraval Mountain area.
Since it was a scorching day, we stuck to the shaded woods and didn’t do too much fast work, since it would have been unfair for the horses. However, Tulipe was an absolute delight to ride, light in the hand and responsive to the leg, meaning I was able to just sit back and enjoy it.
If you are a nervous rider, then I’d certainly recommend you contact Sandrine. She specialises in using horses for hippotherapy and is incredibly versed in making people feel at ease. Being a much smaller set-up also means she has much more time to dedicate on a one-on-one basis.
To explore the Annecy Mountain with Sandrine, please contact her visit her website.
Lysiane runs a much larger yard with 33 horses and 8 ponies. It is a much more commercial set-up geared towards the tourists wishing to explore beyond Lake Annecy, but still within easy reach. In fact, depending on where you ride, you may get glimpses of the lake as you go.
When you arrive, the horses will be ready for you, and you will start off by getting on in the arena, where you get a crash course on how to stop, start and steer your horse. Once Lysiane is comfortable you’ve mastered the basic commands, you will set off to explore this beautiful area, hacking through stunning little villages that you’d never stumble across otherwise.
It was a much cooler day when I rode at Les Ecuries de Chevaline, so we got to do a lot more fast work. My trusty steed for the day was Riviere, another very pleasant horse that would have been just as happy plodding along as it was cantering up the hills and along the green fields.
If you are an experienced rider who wants to do more than walk and trot, I’d recommend booking a private hack, since Les Ecuries de Chevaline attracts mainly beginners. However, if you are a novice, it is perfect.
It is also ideal for kids who want to enjoy a pony ride.
To book a ride with Lysiane, please visit her website.
Towering above the charming alpine town of La Clusaz is the Beauregard plateau, an area that comes alive with skiers in the winter and hikers and mountain bikers in the summer. You can access the plateau from Manigod, Las Clusaz, or Thônes. Since I was staying in La Clusaz, I opted for the gondola that rises from the centre of town all the way to the 1647 restaurant. From there, I not only had incredible views of the plateau and surrounding mountainous area, but also the valley below that weaves its way through the Aravis mountain range.
The reason I was there was to enjoy lunch at Restaurant 1647, named because that is the altitude at which it sits. I don’t think I would be lying if I said it was the most scenic lunch I have ever had. I indulged in locally sourced farm produce while admiring the impressive Aravis mountain range. In the winter, it overlooks the ski slopes, while in the summer months, this region turns into pastureland for the famous Reblochon cheese-making cows. It really is a sight to behold.
The gondola to reach the plateau from La Clusaz costs €11 return.
If you wish to go from Manigod, you will want to park at Col de la Croix-Fry car park. From there, it is a relatively straightforward 2.6km hike. From Thônes, it is a more challenging 10-kilometre hike.
I think it’s important I am honest. When I was contacted to ask whether I wanted to practice Yoga Tumou during my visit to Annecy Mountains, I wasn’t filled with excitement. It’s not that I don’t like yoga; it is more so that this particular practice involves a cold mountain river immersion. And I don’t like the cold! In fact, I was going to say no when Vanessa asked me if I wanted to try it, but I chose to push myself out of my comfort zone and give it a go.
We met Alexia from Yoga Masala early on Sunday morning in the cute town of Le Grand-Bornand, another alpine town I’d add to your list. After walking for about 5-10 minutes, we reached a pine needle-covered track leading us down to Le Chinaillon stream. We took our shoes off and still fully clothed, started our yoga practice, focusing on breathing and igniting our inner fire. I won’t lie, at this stage my feet felt like ice blocks, and the only thing I could think about was the fact I really didn’t want to get in the cold water. In fact, I wasn’t sure I’d be capable of it. But, if there is one thing that I definitely am, it is stubborn!
When the time came to undress and enter the water, I did. As soon as I stepped into the water though, my breath was knocked out of me. My feet and calves screamed: “What the hell are you doing?”. But everyone else was going deeper, and I didn’t want to be the weakling that backed out, so I followed them in, expecting excruciating pain to follow. But it didn’t.
My body started shaking uncontrollably, bringing all the warmth it could muster to my skin. But it wasn’t long before my breathing started to slow, and a calmness I did not expect started washing over me. Soon my shaking stopped too, and my mind stopped racing. For the first time in a long time, I was truly focused on the moment. Not what had happened, or what would happen, but what was happening.
We stayed in the water for 10 minutes, which was much longer than I ever thought I would manage. Of course, I was glad when it was time to get out and put warm clothes on, but the experience was so much better than I expected. I felt reinvigorated.
Would I do it again? Probably not in a rush, although I’d still like to do an ice dip. However, I don’t regret doing it, and it is certainly one of the most unusual things to do in the Annecy Mountains.
If you want to step out of your comfort zone, then book with Alexia here.
Perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking Lake Annecy, the Chateau de Menthon is a sight to behold. This medieval fortress has stood tall for over 1,000 years, with its fair share of history and legends to tell.
The castle was built in the 10th century and has been occupied by the same noble family for over 900 years. The castle’s colourful history includes sieges, battles, and even a glimpse of royalty – Queen Victoria herself visited the Chateau de Menthon in the 19th century.
Aside from its impressive history, the Chateau de Menthon boasts stunning architecture and luxurious interiors. You can take a tour of the castle, marvelling at the intricate details of the medieval fortifications and the opulence of the rooms inside. Please note though, that tours are only available in French.
Entry costs €11 for adults and €6 for kids.
When Annecy Mountains suggested I do a workshop with a saddler, I expected I was going to learn how to make saddles. However, it turns out that in English we don’t have a word to differentiate between saddlers (those who make saddles) and those who work with leather.
I spent the afternoon with Audrey from Bourrellerie Dez’Alpes, a farmer turned saddler who specialises in making collars for cattle. I love walking through alpine regions where cattle graze. The sound of the bells follows their movements, blending in with the rustling of leaves, the crunching of twigs underfoot, and the chirping of birds. A true alpine symphony. The sound of these bells is engrained in the region’s culture, and as such, it is not uncommon for special collars to be made with intricate embroidery as wedding and anniversary gifts. These are the kind of collars Audrey makes.
I wasn’t there to make a collar though. I was tasked with making a rose. Under the expert guidance of Audrey, I did something else that I have never been any good at: arts and crafts. It was my worst subject at school, so I expected to recreate something that even a 5-year-old would be embarrassed to show their parents. Turns out though, that when the person teaching you is as passionate about what they do as Audrey is, that transfers over to the pupils making it an enjoyable experience where you get the chance to excel. I won’t lie; I’m impressed with my rose!
So if you need a break from adventurous activities, consider a leather workshop with Bourrellerie dez’Alpes. To book, please email ocoeurdezalpes@gmail.com. The rose workshop was cheap at only €35! Even less for larger groups.
One of the top things to do in Lake Annecy in the summer is to watch the sunset from the Guinguette des Cassines a Angon. Perched on the shores of Lake Annecy, there is no better spot to watch the sunset.
Les Cassines is a business built with a vision to genuinely promote local produce. Everything on the menu is sourced locally, focusing on superior quality that will take you on a flavoursome journey of the Annecy region. On their website, you can even see the exact locations where each of their ingredients are bought from.
Les Cassines has two businesses set up side by side. You have the restaurant, where you can enjoy a delicious gastronomical experience, or the Guinguette, a tapas bar buzzing with atmosphere. The place oozes a laid-back vibe that instantly sets the mood for a carefree and enjoyable time, so it is not surprising that it is a favourite amongst locals who gather here with friends to celebrate the weekend.
Address: 228 Rte du Ponton, 74290 Talloires-Montmin
You don’t have to spend a fortune here to take advantage of all this stunning area offers. From beaches with crystal-clear waters to challenging hikes in scenic alpine meadows, there is plenty of interesting things for visitors of all ages and budget sizes to enjoy in Lake Annecy and the Annecy Mountains…for free! Here are my favourite!
I stumbled upon Lac Thuy by chance. I had time to kill between having lunch at La creperie “Les Droles 2 dames” and my leather workshop, so after wandering around Thônes, I decided to take a drive. Lac de Thuy might be small, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in views! It also seems to be a popular spot for locals to come and enjoy their lunch. I certainly enjoyed chilling here until it was time to go and make my rose!
If you visit Lake Annecy in summer, going for a swim has to be one of the top things on your to do list. Not only is it beautiful, but it is also incredibly refreshing, easily accessible and the cleanest lake in Europe. I saw many people enjoying a dip, even late into the evening when I was there. The further away you go from the town of Annecy, the less crowded you will find it.
Lake Annecy is blessed with 50 km of waterfront trails, making it the ideal spot for a walk, run, or bike ride. I followed the path south from Talloires for an evening stroll, and I have to say, it was delightful!
The Annecy Mountains are home to several charming alpine towns that are sure to steal your heart. One such town is the picturesque village of Le Grand-Bornand, which is famous for its traditional chalet-style buildings and stunning mountain views.
Another must-visit alpine town in the Annecy Mountains is La Clusaz, which boasts over 132km of ski slopes and attracts skiers and snowboarders from all over the world. But don’t think of it as just a winter destination. In the summer it comes alive with outdoor enthusiasts who make the most of the ski lifts to go hiking and mountain biking.
If you want to escape the crowds and indulge in peace and quiet, the tiny, car-free village of Menthon-Saint-Bernard is the perfect destination. Nestled on the banks of Lake Annecy, this charming town is known for its medieval castle and enchanting streets lined with flowers.
And let’s not forget about the delightful town of Saint-Jorioz, located on the western shore of Lake Annecy. With its vibrant marketplaces, tree-lined promenades, and panoramic views of the lake and mountains, Saint-Jorioz is a favourite among locals and tourists alike.
One of my favourites though? Le Chinaillon. This quaint mountain village is nestled in the heart of the stunning Aravis range. We came here for brunch after our cold water immersion and I absolutely loved it. It was a true gourmet experience. Everything served was locally produced and homemade. From cold meats and cheeses to lovingly crafted cakes and savoury tarts. Just thinking about it is making my mouth water again!
There are several exciting festivals and events that are sure to keep you entertained. One of the most anticipated events is the Fête du Lac, which occurs in August every year. During this event, the entire lake becomes a stage as colourful fireworks light up the sky in a spectacular display.
Sometimes all I want to do in a new area is drive to a viewpoint, take it all in, and capture it with my phone. And that is exactly what I did while exploring the Annecy Mountains. I’m not sure words can describe how beautiful each viewpoint was, so I will leave you with my photos instead.
Please note that image was not taken from Col de la Forclaz. I was so busy paragliding that I didn’t every stop at the viewpoint!
I feel the need to start any posts that recommend activities for kids with a disclaimer. I do not have kids! However, I am still a big kid at heart! These are two activities that I did that I think should make it onto your list of things to do in Annecy during the summer if you have kids.
A somewhat cheesy museum (excuse the pun), but fun all the same. This interactive exhibition brings alive the old alpine tradition of Reblochon cheese-making. As the museum takes you through the various steps in producing this rather delectable cheese (I ate a lot of it while in the Annecy region!), you will also learn about what life was like living on an alpine farm. I found it rather interesting, and best of all, I got to eat some Reblochon at the end of it! But the real gem of Le Hameau des Alpes is Giselle, who works there. I have never experienced such a warm welcome in any other museum anywhere in the world! Giselle is the real hidden gem here!
Upstairs is dedicated to the birth of skiing in La Clusaz region. It was fascinating to see how the sport has evolved over the last century, and I particularly enjoyed watching their high-octane videos shot in this area.
The Luge Run mountain rollercoaster was SO MUCH FUN! A single trip costs only €5 and is guaranteed to leave you with a massive grin as you zoom down the 800-metre track in a single or double bobsleigh.
You will find the gondola for the Luge Run opposite the ice rink.
As you can see, there is so much to do in the Annecy Mountains region, and that is without even getting into hiking, which I didn’t have the time to do. I would definitely recommend visiting Annecy Lake and the surrounding areas in the summer months. You will certainly find plenty to do!
It is no secret that I love my food, and this trip was gastronomically one of the best. The Annecy region takes particular pride in their produce, always focusing on high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. I realise I have mentioned some of these restaurants already, but they are certainly worth mentioning again!
Without a shadow of a doubt, the best meal of my trip was at Les Terrasses du Cottage. This was fine dining at its best. Picture this: you’re seated at a table overlooking the lake’s crystal-clear waters, and the sun is setting in the distance, casting a warm glow over the scene. The air is fragrant with the aromas of the dishes to come.
The meal started with a delightful and perfectly executed dish – Duck Foie Gras and Gingerbread Jelly, Strawberries with Java Pepper, and White Onions. The richness of the foie gras was expertly balanced by the spicy-sweet gingerbread jelly, creating a flavour explosion in my mouth. A true treat for the senses.
For my main, I chose the Lamb Duo: Crispy Shank and Roasted Chop, Eggplant, and Broad Beans. The lamb was cooked to perfection, the crispy exterior giving way to the succulent meat inside. The eggplant and broad beans added a depth of flavour and texture that perfectly complimented the lamb.
And of course, no meal is complete without dessert! Chocolate made like a Baklava, Oriental Spices Gratin, Safran, and Ice Cream. Wow. I mean, just wow. If you’re a chocolate lover, this dessert will take you to heaven and back. The baklava-style layers of chocolate were infused with oriental spices that added warmth and depth to the dish.
But it wasn’t just the food and the setting that made Les Terrasses du Cottage special. Everything about my meal was perfectly executed. Even the owner, Nicolas Bise, came out to check I was enjoying my meal.
10/10! A real treat that I’d highly recommend you indulge in if you are in the Lake Annecy area.
Address: 390 Rte du Port, 74290 Talloires-Montmin
Sitting at an altitude of 1647 and accessed via gondola from La Clusaz, Restaurant 1647 wowed me with its 180-degree views over the Aravis mountains. I thoroughly enjoyed a beetroot and goat’s cheese salad, which I ate al fresco while admiring the views.
Address: Plateau de Beauregard, 74220 La Clusaz
I thoroughly enjoyed my brunch at Les Cimes. It reminded me somewhat of a British High Tea, only instead of sandwiches, there was a selection of local meat and cheeses, savoury tarts, and a selection of homemade cakes, all enjoyed while sitting on the balcony watching the world go by.
Address: 16 Route de la Floria – Le Chinaillon, 74450 Le Grand Bornand
Hidden away in the sleepy town of Thônes, you’ll find the garden of La Crêperie “Les Drôles 2 dames“. Colourful and full of greenery, this small creperie serves a delicious array of sweet and savoury crepes. There were so many delicious options on the menu that I struggled to choose. However, my love for goat’s cheese won, so I tucked into a delicious goat cheese, walnut, and honey crepe.
Address: 23 Rue des Clefs, 74230 Thônes
My last meal in the Annecy Mountains did not disappoint; a delicious poke bowl sitting on the terrace of Hôtel Arcalod with brilliant company. Just like every restaurant I ate at while in the region, Hotel Arcalod focuses on ingredients sourced from local producers that they have met in person.
Address: 237 Rte de la Gare, 74210 Doussard
This is not a comprehensive list of the best places to stay in Annecy in the summer. Instead, it is an honest review of the two hotels I stayed at during my time in the Annecy Mountains and by Annecy Lake.
Hôtel Alpen Roc is a charming establishment that exudes a warm and welcoming atmosphere from the moment you step through its doors. Boasting a traditional, Alpine-style décor, it is clear that every detail has been lovingly considered to create a truly authentic atmosphere for guests to relax in.
The rooms at the hotel are spacious and comfortable, with cosy furnishings and mountain views. Each room features all the modern amenities you could want, including flat-screen TVs, complimentary Wi-Fi, and premium bedding to ensure you get the best night’s sleep possible.
But the Hotel Alpen Roc is about more than just comfortable rooms. The hotel has a fabulous spa, including a jacuzzi, sauna, and a heated indoor pool that overlooks the mountains. There’s also an on-site restaurant serving yummy locally sourced produce buffet style.
If all that wasn’t enough, the hotel’s location is unbeatable. La Clusaz is a quaint Alpine village that offers the perfect mix of skiing, hiking, and relaxation. In the winter, you will find yourself only 150 metres from the nearest ski lift, with plenty of pistes to suit all ability levels. And in the summer, the mountains offer up some of France’s most beautiful hiking trails.
I certainly really enjoyed my stay at Hotel Alpen Roc. However, it was the next hotel that stole the show for me.
Address: 388 Rte des Grandes Alpes, 74220 La Clusaz
I’m not exaggerating when I say that Hôtel Le Cottage Bise is the best hotel I have ever stayed at. Located on the pristine shores of Lake Annecy, this charming hotel is the definition of a true gem, with its warm and welcoming ambience, picturesque views, and luxurious amenities that will make your stay truly unforgettable, especially if you get a lakeside suite like I did!
Built in 1903, Hôtel Le Cottage Bise has been beautifully restored to retain its original character and charm while offering modern comforts to its guests. The hotel boasts 21 elegantly designed rooms, furnished with classy decor, plush bedding, and state-of-the-art features. Each room has been tastefully decorated with neutral colours, creating a relaxing and calming atmosphere ideal for a peaceful retreat.
In addition to its inviting rooms, the hotel offers a range of facilities and services to satisfy every guest’s needs. The hotel features a lovely outdoor pool, surrounded by lush greenery and scenic mountain views, perfect for a refreshing swim on a warm day. The hotel’s spa is a tranquil oasis of relaxation, offering a range of massages, treatments, and beauty services to rejuvenate your body and mind.
One of the highlights of Hôtel Le Cottage Bise is its exceptional culinary offerings. The hotel’s restaurant, Les Terrasses du Cottage, serves delectable French cuisine that will leave you begging for more. You can read more about my meal above.
So if you’re looking for a unique and memorable experience, Hotel Le Cottage Bise is the perfect choice. Its exceptional service, luxurious amenities, and stunning location make it a true haven of peace and tranquillity. Whether you’re travelling for business or pleasure, this charming hotel is sure to exceed your expectations and leave you with unforgettable memories.
Address: 390 Rte du Port, 74290 Talloires-Montmin
I hope this post highlights just how much I enjoyed my trip to the Annecy Mountains. I took on the assignment of discovering the Annecy Mountains area because it was right up my street, but I never expected to fall in love with the region the way I did. The views, the mountains, the lake, the weather, the food, the culture, and the adrenaline-packed activities all made for an epic 4 days spent in Lake Annecy and the surrounding region. I can’t wait to return with my hiking shoes to explore further afield!
I always love talking about travel, so if you have been to the area, please let me know what you thought of it. If you haven’t and you have questions, then please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
All that is left for me to say is a big thank you to Annecy Mountains for hosting me and showing me this incredible area.
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