A Trip to The Beautiful Town of Annecy in France
Weekend Away Series
Annecy is a charming alpine town in southeastern France and is often referred to as the “Venice of France”. It is very picturesque and the perfect destination for a weekend or a short break.
Visit the Old Town
It is famous for its cobbled streets, winding canals and beautifully coloured painted houses. The Château d’Annecy dominates the old town centre. A restored castle it has been transformed into a museum and in 1959 it was officially classified as a “monument historique” by the French Ministry of Culture.
Originally home to the Counts of Geneva, today you can visit the interesting museum which is complete with regional artifacts, furniture from the region, religious art and lots more.
Shop, Eat and Stroll
Take a wander round the windy streets and enjoy a spot of shopping or window-shopping. There are plenty of artisanal shops, with beautiful crafts and if you’re feeling peckish why not pop by and visit one of the ice cream parlours (Glacier des Alpes, one of the best ice cream shops in France, comes highly recommended). Alternatively stop for a meal or a snack or just a coffee on one of the lovely terraces.
It’s fun to stroll along the canal and you what is so nice is that there are no cars in the centre. Don’t forget to walk across the famous Pont des Amours.
Lake Annecy – Walk, Cycle, Picnic
Annecy’s emerald-colored lake is crystal clear and very beautiful. You can walk along the lakeside footpath, or if the weather is fine why not pop into a local delicatessen and boulangerie and buy some provisions to enjoy a lakeside picnic? If you’re feeling energetic why not hire a bike (or maybe an e-Bike as there are a few steep bits) and go round the Lake. It’s around 40km in total and there is a dedicated cycle path. Don’t miss the FREE Doussard Nature Reserve along the way which has a variety of beautiful flora and fauna to admire (please check its current opening times due to the COVID situation). If you’re not a big fan of cycling there are plenty of other activities on offer.
Why not hire a Pedallo or small boat or a Stand Up Paddleboard or canoe? In Summer you can also find wakeboarding and water skiing lessons.
Col de la Forclaz
Approximately half an hour away is the Col de la Forclaz, a very popular spot for paragliders. If you’re feeling brave why not have a go? The views are simply stunning! Alternatively you can be a spectactator and watch as all the paragliders glide gracefully through the air over the lake. The panoramic views of the lake from this spot are stunning and it’s a perfect place to enjoy a sunset shot.
Other Activities in and around Annecy
Depending on the time you have, there are plenty of other things to do. If you’re an adrenalin junky you could try canyoning near to Angon waterfall, or maybe hang gliding or mountain biking? If you’re into hiking, there are some great routes up Mont Veyrier and Mont Baron.
Whatever you do, you’re sure to enjoy this pretty little French town.
Annecy
Click here for Google Map directions.
For More Information
If you fancy visiting this beautiful town, why not take a look at the Tourist Board’s website here for more information.
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