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10 things to see and do in Annecy
Annecy, nestled in the heart of the French Alps, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. With its exceptional setting, it offers a multitude of activities to suit all tastes. Whether you’re a watersports enthusiast, a keen cyclist or a hiker with an eye for breathtaking scenery, Annecy has something for you. The turquoise waters of Lake Annecy are ideal for swimming, paddling or sailing. The surrounding mountains offer hiking trails for all levels, with panoramic views of the lake and city. And for those who prefer cultural activities, Annecy’s old town, with its picturesque canals and charming cobbled streets, is a real gem to explore. In short, Annecy is a playground par excellence, offering a multitude of unforgettable experiences.
Top 1 The lake
It’s the first thing you’ll want to see when you arrive. A beautiful mountain lake with turquoise waters reflecting the surrounding mountains.
In summer, it’s great fun to go swimming, and despite the cooler nights, the days are sunny and warm. The average temperature of the lake is 24°. There are numerous beaches around the lake to enjoy a moment of relaxation. For the more adventurous, don’t hesitate to try your hand at water sports. Only 900m from the campsite, the Doussard beach is fully equipped, and you’ll find pedal-boat and boat rentals, with or without a license, with our partner 😉 : ponton Deronzier (negotiated rates). Not forgetting water skiing, wakesurfing, sailing and paddleboarding.
Top 2 The bike
One of France’s oldest greenways can be found here….
Located just 500m from the campsite, you’ll be able to get around easily and discover a dazzling environment…
For your convenience, the campsite offers on-site bike hire seven days a week.
The cycle path stretches for 35km around the lake. Today, you’ll be able to get to Annecy with no worries, thanks to an easy, pleasant route.
On the other hand, some parts of the east bank of the track are still under construction, making certain (non-existent) sections dangerous for the Tour du Lac.
Passage on the road between Doussard and Balmette is therefore possible, but a little chaotic at peak times.
For the more motivated, there are a number of walks that take you to magnificent viewpoints such as the Col de la Forclaz, the Col de Leschaux and many others.
Top 3 Hiking
Find a hike around Lake Annecy? Nothing could be easier. Hiking is the “national” sport practiced by most Haut-Savoyards of all ages.
Don’t be afraid when you see these heights… whether you’re an amateur, a sportsman or an expert, you’re bound to find a tour that’s just right for you. Follow the guide!
Starting from the campsite, you can enjoy an easy hike up the Taillefer mountain.
For a little more height, hikes to La Sambuy or the slopes of the Charbon mountain will enchant you.
For the more experienced, we can’t talk about hiking without mentioning the famous “Tournette”.
Find all our hikes on our blog ” Top 7 hikes around the lake
d’Annecy
Top 4 Free Flight
Annecy, the spot par excellence for hang-gliding. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a thrill, you’re sure to find something to suit you in our range of aerial activities.
Experience a real adventure as you fly over this beautiful mountain lake in a paraglider, hang glider, microlight or hot air balloon, with a view of Mont Blanc.
Now that we’ve set the scene, what are you waiting for? Even if you’re a little apprehensive, take the plunge – you won’t regret it!
At the campsite reception, you can book paragliding flights with our partner FBI. Various two-seater packages at negotiated rates.
Top 5 Annecy and its old town
The “Venice of the Alps”! Annecy is famous for its old town and the canal that runs through it. Strolling along the cobbled streets of the old town, admiring and/or visiting the Palais de l’Ile, enjoying an ice cream at the famous Glacier des Alpes along these colorful alleyways will be a real treat for the senses.
Take a stroll through the Jardin de l’Europe gardens, cross the Pont des Amours and ride the merry-go-round up to the Pâquier: a must if you’re a first-time visitor to the region.
L’Idéal’s advice : Forget about driving to Annecy – it’s a waste of time, money and energy. Buy a cruise ticket at the campsite reception (negotiated rates) and take the boat shuttle to the port of Doussard. You’ll take advantage of this trip to discover the lake in a whole new way.
Want to bring home some local produce? Whether you’re looking for groceries, charcuterie or cheese, ask at reception. We have plenty of small producers to recommend so that you can bring home the best of your local produce.
our region!
Top 6 La Sambuy / caves and waterfalls Seythenex
Above all, La Sambuy is a splendid site with breathtaking views of Mont Blanc and Lake Annecy. A family resort par excellence, for winter and summer, that has managed to preserve its authenticity and its
natural. Lots of activities for young and old: fun activities such as summer tobogganing or buggy rides for an unforgettable afternoon, and the chairlift that always brings you to the top of the hill.
for more beauty and nature.
We recommend the Seythenex caves and waterfalls, located on the road to the Sambuy resort.
On the way up or down, why not stop for a refreshing break? Discover a magnificent natural heritage made up, as its name suggests, of caves and waterfalls. A magical 100% natural site. Remember to bring a sweater for the visit 😉 (around 10° inside the cave)
Tips: You’ll find a restaurant-bar-snack bar on site. Please bring closed shoes, caps and sun cream. Summer in the mountains! There is a shuttle
free of charge from the campsite, please ask at reception for times.
Top 7 Col de la forclaz
Situated at an altitude of 1150 m, this belvedere offers a bird’s-eye view of Lake Annecy. The Col de la Forclaz is a world-renowned spot for hang-gliding and cycling enthusiasts.
For those who love beauty, we can’t recommend spending a moment of your vacation there… Watch the paragliders take off, go for a short hike, enjoy a beautiful sunset, share a drink on a restaurant terrace or taste the famous potato fritters from the “La Ferme” restaurant.
Top 8 Angon / waterfall
Located in the commune of Talloires, on the eastern shore of Lake Annecy, around 15 km from the campsite, the Cascade d’Angon is a short, picturesque hike.
It will delight nature lovers and canyoning fans alike. An impressive 60-meter-high waterfall that seems to slide down the surrounding walls.
For a chance to admire it, you have to walk up to a magnificent cliffside path, with superb views over the lake.
You’ll then reach the interior of the Angon canyon and pass under the first waterfall before catching a glimpse of the grand cascade.
Top 9 Canyoning
Canyoning, a sport that lets you discover the mountains in a different way. One of our region’s top activities on a hot summer’s day.
Approach walks, swimming, abseiling, jumps, natural slides, a refreshing activity to enjoy with family and friends.
Ask at reception, we have a great partnership with Terreo to discover the most beautiful rivers around the campsite.
The same company organizes half-day via ferrata tours at La Sambuy, another activity that will appeal to climbing enthusiasts.
Top 10 Chamonix
Chamonix is a breathtaking experience of the very highest mountains, and that’s saying a lot…
If there’s one detour to take, it’s to Chamonix Mont-Blanc, just 1h10 away. An unforgettable experience guaranteed!
You need to set off early in the morning, as during the day, the mist settles on the summit. On arrival, take the Aiguille du Midi cable car for a breathtaking ascent.
At the summit, admire an exceptional view of the entire Mont-Blanc massif and take the option and the courage of the “step into the void” experience.
On the way back down, take a ride on a cogwheel train on France’s largest glacier: the Mer de Glace! Enjoy it while it still exists…
