Annecy is a French city that is very popular with tourists. Its canals add charm to it and it is called the “Venice of the Alps”. The beautiful lake and mountains are real treasures. The medieval old town of Annecy dates back to the 14th century. Walking through its narrow, cobbled streets, visitors are transported back in time, admiring the well-preserved buildings decorated with colorful shutters. The Palais de l’Isle, a unique triangular castle located on a small island in the Thiou River, is one of the must-see attractions.
Undoubtedly a crystal clear lake, Lac d’Annecy is a magnificent reservoir surrounded by majestic mountains, the landscape here is amazing and gives you the opportunity to relax and take a break from the city noise. Numerous sandy beaches give you the opportunity to laze around and for lovers of active leisure it is recommended to rent a paddleboard or kayak.
A boat trip will take you on a journey around the azure lake and provide you with admiration of breathtaking landscapes. For mountain lovers, a lot of outdoor activities, including hiking and cycling are on the way to Mount Semnoz.
Location:
Annecy it’s a city and capital of Haute-Savoie département, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes région, southeastern France. It lies on the northern tip of Lake Annecy, 35 kilometres (22 mi) south of Geneva, Switzerland.
Sightseeing:
Musée-Château d’Annecy (Annecy Castle Museum)
The Annecy Château Museum houses rich and varied collections presenting the history of the region and different cultures of the world, from archaeology to contemporary art, including ethnology and animated cinema. The Musée-Château d’Annecy mainly exhibits photography, with a special emphasis on conceptual art.
Le Palais de I’Île (Annecy Castle) Chateau d’Annecy
Chateau d’Annecy In 1959 it was listed as a historical monument by the Ministry of Culture. The castle is divided into towers and loggias called “logis.” The Queen’s Tower was erected in the twelfth century. Its walls are 13 feet thick. It has aged very well. Together with the Logis Perriere, it houses the Regional Observatory of the Alpine Lakes. The Logis Perriere dates from the 15th century.
Besides the observatory, the castle houses the Museum of Alpine Popular Art. Castle, right in the heart of the city, attracts many visitors. Around the lake, you’ll also find Menthon-Saint-Bernard Castle and Duingt Castle, each with its own unique character and fascinating stories.
Catedral de San Pedro (Cathedral Annecy)
The Cathedral Annecy (Cathédrale Saint-Pierre) is a Roman Catholic cathedral also listed as a national monument by the French government. It houses an organ that was built between 1840 and 1842 by Nicolas-Antoine Lété, an organ builder of the French king. A lot of concerts are organized there, especially in summer.
Pont des Amours
The Pont des Amours is now the Annecy photography center. We invite you to visit this popular lakeside location. The Pont des Amours is a footbridge located on the shores of Lake Annecy at the entrance to the Vassé Canal. It connects the Pâquier River with the Jardins de Europa, where lovers sought refuge and peace.
Semnoz Mountain
Semnoz is a mountain near Annecy where you can enjoy many winter and summer activities. Beautiful panorama of the lake or mountains. Le Semnoz borders the western shore of Lake Annecy, is a hotbed of activity.
In winter, the ski resort offers ideal terrain for cross-country skiing, downhill skiing, snowshoeing and snowkiting. In summer, it is the perfect place to hike to alpine pastures with animals, farms and cheese production. It is also an opportunity to hike on numerous walking trails and mountain bike routes.
Jardins de l’Europe
The Jardins de l’Europe, located along the tranquil shores of Lake Annecy, is a captivating park that invites tourists to immerse themselves in its natural beauty and artistic offerings.
This lush green space, adorned with vibrant flower beds and majestic trees, provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can stroll along its picturesque pathways, breathe in the fresh alpine air, and take in the stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The park is home to a variety of sculptures and art installations.
Le Pâquier
Le Pâquier, also known as the Champ de Mars, offers visitors a space for relaxation and outdoor recreation. Spanning seven and a half hectares, this landscaped park invites you to stroll, enjoy sports activities, and admire the exceptional panoramas of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Basilique de la Visitation
The Basilica of the Visitation was built on the Crêt du Maure, a foothill of the Semnoz Mountains, and can be seen from afar. The basilica was built between 1909 and 1930, and was awarded the Prix de Rome. It was inaugurated in 1949. It adjoins the mother house of the Order of the Visitation, founded in 1610 by François de Sales and Jeanne de Chantal.
Plage de l’Impérial
Imperial Beach has recently become free. Facilities adapted to the needs of children, idyllic surroundings, wide open spaces.This beach is undoubtedly one of the favorite beaches of the Annecy residents.
Plage d’Albigny
The largest beach on Lake Annecy. The free beach, especially suitable for children, is also one of the most spacious. The Albigny beach, which has a view of the mountains, is sunny all day long, making it a popular and very pleasant beach.
Plage Des Marquisats
Marquisats Beach is a unique place where you can enjoy the sun and water. With its idyllic setting and beautiful stretch of sand, it’s the perfect place to relax with family or friends. You can swim, paddleboard, play beach volleyball, or simply lie back and relax. The beach also offers convenient facilities for your convenience, including restrooms, showers, and changing rooms.
