Annecy

A picturesque Alpine town nestled on the shores of crystal-clear Lake Annecy, famous for its charming medieval old town and vibrant waterfront. The turquoise lake offers water sports, scenic walks, and stunning mountain backdrops.

Things to do

• Lake Annecy Boat Tour — Cruise the pristine turquoise waters to appreciate the surrounding Alps and visit charming lakeside villages like Menthon-Saint-Bernard.
• Explore the Old Town (Vieille Ville) — Wander through narrow medieval streets lined with pastel-colored buildings, boutique shops, and cafés in the heart of Annecy.
• Château d'Annecy — Visit this 12th-century hilltop castle offering panoramic views of the lake and town, now housing a regional museum.
• Water Sports on the Lake — Engage in kayaking, paddleboarding, windsurfing, or swimming in the clean Alpine lake during warmer months.
• Cycling Around Lake Annecy — Follow the scenic lakeside bike path for stunning views, accessible to all levels with routes around the entire 27-kilometer perimeter.
• Palace of the Counts of Annecy — Admire this Renaissance palace in the Old Town, a beautifully restored architectural gem reflecting the city's historical importance.

Food to try

• Omble Chevalier — A delicate local Alpine fish from Lake Annecy, traditionally prepared grilled or in butter, highlighting the region's fresh freshwater cuisine.
• Reblochon Cheese — A creamy, protected designation of origin cheese from the nearby Haute-Savoie region, often enjoyed melted in tartiflette or fondue.
• Tartiflette — An Alpine comfort dish of sliced potatoes layered with onions, lardons, and melted Reblochon cheese, baked until golden.
• Savoyard Raclette — Melted cheese scraped onto bread and potatoes, a warming local specialty reflecting the mountain heritage of the Savoie region.
• Diots aux Poireaux — Traditional Savoyard sausages braised with leeks and white wine, representing authentic regional comfort food.
• Fondue Savoyarde — A communal melted cheese dip made with local Beaufort, Emmental, and Gruyère cheeses, served with bread cubes for dipping.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Lake Etiquette — The lake is pristine due to strict environmental protection; dispose of waste properly and avoid excessive noise or motorized activities in designated quiet zones.
• Learn Basic French Phrases — While English is spoken in tourist areas, locals appreciate visitors attempting French greetings and basic courtesy words.
• Observe Siesta Hours — Many small shops close between noon and 2 PM; plan shopping and errands around these traditional rest hours common in French Alpine towns.
• Dress Appropriately for Mountain Weather — Weather changes rapidly in the Alps; bring layers and waterproof gear even in summer, as temperatures can drop significantly in evenings and mornings.