A 3-day road trip around Annecy, between the lake and the mountains
A 3-day road trip around Annecy, between the lake and the mountains
Le lac d'Annecy, un des plus beaux lacs de France (Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France) - ©Pidi/iStock
Is Annecy worth a visit? Absolutely! Follow the guide and discover the unique charm of this Savoyard gem, often called the Little Venice of the Alps.
Step 1: Discovering Annecy, where history meets tasty delights
With its cobbled streets, colourful façades and winding canals, Annecy’s old town is a charming labyrinth perfect for a leisurely wander. Start your day with the iconic Palais de l’Île, a medieval gem sitting on an island in the Thiou river. Be sure to visit the former cells, fascinating remnants of a time gone by.
Next, head up to Annecy Castle: perched high on the hill, it offers unbeatable views over the town and lake.
Then, take a stroll through the charming pedestrianised streets for some relaxation and exploration. Soak up the lively, welcoming vibe of the historic centre and be tempted by the artisanal shops lining the alleys, where you’ll find local goodies like famous Savoyard cheeses, mountain honey and beautiful handmade pottery.
To round off your visit, pop into a traditional brasserie to try the iconic Savoyard fondue or indulge in a plate of crozets—scrumptious little pasta made from durum wheat or buckwheat, served with cheese and bacon.
Annecy, France on the Thiou River at twilight.
Step 2: The West Shore—A blend of nature and heritage
Take the scenic drive along the West Shore of lake Annecy, where you’ll be treated to stunning views of the crystal-clear waters and the surrounding mountains. Your first stop: Menthon-Saint-Bernard, a picture-perfect village with quaint cobbled streets. Don’t miss the chance to explore the grand medieval castle, a real highlight of the area.
For those after a bit of adventure, climbing the Roc de Chère is a must. With its rocky cliffs and jaw-dropping views, the reward at the top is well worth the effort. If you prefer something more relaxed, a stroll along the lake or a boat trip offers a peaceful way to take in the scenery from a different angle.
Next, head towards Talloires and its historic abbey—a serene spot steeped in history, perfect for a cultural break.
To wrap up the day, enjoy a meal at one of the lakeside restaurants in Menthon-Saint-Bernard or Talloires, where you can savour local delicacies while soaking in the spectacular views.
Step 3: The East Shore—Stunning views and crystal-clear waters
Your journey continues along the east shore of the lake. After taking in the jaw-dropping views from the Col de la Forclaz, which offers a bird’s-eye view of the lake, be sure to make a stop at the Bout du Lac Nature Reserve. This peaceful, protected area is home to an impressive range of wildlife and is a nature lover’s paradise.
Next, head to Duingt, a village famed for its picture-perfect setting, before heading to the Fromagerie de la Cochette. Pick up some local cheese here to enjoy with a lakeside picnic or, if the weather’s not ideal, save it for a cosy evening aperitif.
For the next leg of your trip, you have two options: either head up to the top of Mount Semnoz for panoramic, postcard-worthy views, which you can reach easily by car or, for the more adventurous, by hiking boots! Alternatively, you can explore the dramatic Gorges du Fier, with its dizzying footbridges and tunnels carved into the rock.
You can hire electric bikes to tackle the Col de la Forclaz route.
If you’re planning to explore the trails in the Bout du Lac Nature Reserve or the Gorges du Fier, make sure to pack comfy walking shoes, as well as warm, waterproof gear.
Step 4: Back to Annecy, gardens and lakeside escapes
Wrap up your road trip by making the most of Lake Annecy: whether it’s by boat, paddleboard, sailing, kayaking or just a swim. If you’re more of a land lover, head to the Europe Gardens for a peaceful stroll. Just a short walk away, you’ll find the iconic Lover’s bridge, a true Annecy highlight. Finish off with a final walk through the Charles Bosson park, soaking up the sunshine and fresh mountain air, and savour one last view of the lake’s stunning beauty.
❄️ In winter, thrill-seekers head to the nearby ski resorts.
🌷 Come spring, hikers hit the mountain trails, and cyclists enjoy the stunning lakeside routes.
☀️ Summer turns the area into a water lover’s paradise…
🍁 While autumn offers the perfect backdrop for forest strolls among vibrant shades of orange.
Feel like getting away from it all?
See our suggestions for novel trips and must-see places to visit near your home or holiday destination.