The jewels of the Savoy region, Annecy and the surrounding area sparkle with their natural wealth and contemporary lifestyle, combining dynamism and tranquility. A well-balanced environment, a source of fulfillment, which generates a distinguished tourist trade that loves the great outdoors as well as refinement. Proud of its heritage and looking to the future, the Annecy region - bordering Geneva - boasts heritage treasures such as castles, churches and abbeys, which can be visited before dining in the restaurant of chef Yoann Conte, already a double Michelin-starred chef. From its colorful hikes to its acclaimed international animated film festival, Annecy is sure to catch your eye.
Annecy, the Venice of the Alps
Annecy's old town and its medieval streets
Annecy's old town is a must-see for visitors. With its cobbled streets, colorful buildings and canals, it's often nicknamed the “Venice of the Alps”. Here you can discover the Saint-Pierre cathedral, the Château d'Annecy and the Place Sainte-Claire, where the town market is held.
Lake Annecy and its crystal-clear waters
Located in the French Alps, Lake Annecy is a natural wonder offering breathtaking scenery. Surrounded by majestic mountains and picturesque villages, this crystalline lake is a true gem of the region.
The calm waters of Lac d'Annecy reflect the beauty of the surrounding nature, creating an idyllic backdrop for leisure activities such as swimming, sailing and kayaking. The shores of the lake also offer numerous white sandy beaches and footpaths for leisurely strolls.
The castles of Annecy
The châteaux of Annecy are a group of elegant historic buildings that bear witness to the wealth and prestige of the city of Annecy over the centuries. Situated on the shores of Lake Annecy, these castles offer breathtaking views of the town and surrounding mountains.
The Château d'Annecy, also known as the Château des Comtes de Genève, is a magnificent example of medieval architecture. Its imposing tower, fortifications and gardens make it a landmark of the city.
The Château de Menthon-Saint-Bernard, meanwhile, is a jewel of medieval and Renaissance architecture, with its towers, crenellated walls and glazed tile roof. It offers spectacular views of Lake Annecy and the surrounding mountains.
Finally, Château de Montrottier is a unique example of medieval and Renaissance architecture, with its towers, crenellated walls and gardens. It is also renowned for its collection of antique furniture, weapons and objets d'art, making it a fascinating place for history and culture lovers.
All in all, Annecy's châteaux are places of great beauty and historical importance, testifying to the city's cultural and architectural wealth.
Savoyard culinary specialities
The Annecy region is famous for its Savoyard cuisine, which includes raclette, fondue and tartiflette. The town's restaurants offer a variety of traditional dishes, as well as local specialties such as Diots de Savoie, smoked pork sausages...
Sporting activities in Annecy, for even more thrills
Annecy is famous for its varied sporting activities and magnificent scenery. The crystal-clear waters of Lake Annecy offer opportunities for swimming, paddling and kayaking. The surrounding mountains are perfect for hiking, cycling and climbing. Winter sports enthusiasts can take advantage of the world-renowned ski slopes in the nearby resorts of La Clusaz, Le Grand Bornand and Chamonix. With a full range of sporting activities at your fingertips, Annecy is the ideal destination for nature lovers and sports enthusiasts alike.
In conclusion, Annecy is a fascinating city with much to offer visitors. With its charming old town, magnificent lake, historic castles, delicious cuisine and sporting activities, Annecy is a vacation destination not to be missed.