Lake Annecy

#88 among destinations in France

Nature, Natural attraction, Lake

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Facts and practical information

Nestled in the heart of the French Alps, Lake Annecy is a pristine natural wonder that has captivated visitors for centuries. Known for its crystal-clear waters, which are amongst the cleanest in the world, the lake is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a tranquil escape.

Spanning an area of 27.59 square kilometers, Lake Annecy was formed about 18,000 years ago as glaciers carved their way through the alpine landscape. It is fed by mountain springs and the Thiou River, which also serves as its natural outlet. This remarkable body of water reaches depths of up to 82 meters, providing a habitat for a diverse range of aquatic life.

The lake's surroundings are equally impressive, with lush forests, rolling hills, and snow-capped peaks creating a picturesque backdrop. The town of Annecy, known as the "Venice of the Alps" due to its charming canals and colorful old town, graces the northern tip of the lake. It serves as a gateway for visitors looking to explore the lake's beauty.

Lake Annecy is a paradise for water sports, with opportunities for sailing, windsurfing, and swimming during the warmer months. The lake's extensive cycling paths and walking trails draw hikers and bikers, offering panoramic views and access to secluded beaches.

Cultural and historical sites, such as the medieval Château d'Annecy and the Palais de l'Isle, add a touch of historical intrigue to the area. The lake also hosts the world-renowned Annecy International Animated Film Festival, which attracts artists and spectators from around the globe.

Local name: Lac d'Annecy Area: 10.65 mi²Length: 9.07 miWidth: 1.99 miMaximum depth: 269 ftElevation: 1460 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 45°51'18"N, 6°10'41"E

Location

Auvergne-Rhône-AlpesFrance

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Day trips

Lake Annecy – popular in the area (distance from the attraction)

Nearby attractions include: St. Maurice Church, Château d'Annecy, Annecy Cathedral, Château de Menthon-Saint-Bernard.

3.9 miNW
Church
St. Maurice Church, Annecy
100 min walk • Nestled in the heart of the enchanting city of Annecy, France, St. Maurice Church stands as a testament to the enduring beauty and rich history of Catholic architecture. This sacred site, with its serene atmosphere and awe-inspiring design, is a must-visit destination...
3.9 miNW
Modern art exhibits in a historic castle
Château d'Annecy, Annecy
99 min walk • The Château d'Annecy is a restored castle which dominates the old French town of Annecy in the Haute-Savoie département. It was bought by the town, restored and transformed into a museum, le musée-château d'Annecy. The castle is listed as a monument historique by the French Ministry of Culture since 1959.
4 miNW
16th-century church and former monastery
Annecy Cathedral, Annecy
102 min walk • Annecy Cathedral is a Roman Catholic church located in Annecy, France. The cathedral is a national monument. The church was erected at the beginning of the 16th century by Jacques Rossel as a chapel for a Franciscan priory.
1.4 miNE
Forts and castles
Château de Menthon-Saint-Bernard, Menthon-Saint-Bernard
35 min walk • The Château de Menthon is a medieval castle located in the commune of Menthon-Saint-Bernard, 12 kilometres south of Annecy in the Haute-Savoie department of France. Standing on a 200 metres tall rock, its stone towers loom over Lake Annecy, the Roc de Chère National Nature Reserve, and Menthon-Saint-Bernard.
3.2 miN
Nature, Natural attraction, Mountain
Mont Veyrier, Annecy
81 min walk • Mont Veyrier is a mountain located in the French Alps, in Haute Savoie. It culminates at 1,291 metres, and dominates the east side of Lake Annecy.
3.9 miNW
History museum, Forts and castles, Historical place
Palais de l'Isle, Annecy
99 min walk • Annecy is the prefecture and largest city of the Haute-Savoie department in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of Southeastern France. It lies on the northern tip of Lake Annecy, 35 kilometres south of Geneva, Switzerland.
3.1 miE
Nature, Natural attraction, Mountain
Dents de Lanfon
79 min walk • The Dents de Lanfon is a mountain in south-eastern France rising to 1824 m. Situated above Talloires on the east bank of Lac d'Annecy in Haute-Savoie. It is framed by mount Veyrier to the north, and by Le Lanfonnet and La Tournette to the south.
2.1 miSE
Forts and castles
Château d'Héré, Duingt
54 min walk • The castle of Héré is an old fortified house, from the end of the XIVth century, which stands on the commune of Duingt in the department of Haute-Savoie in the region Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes.
1.5 miSE
Outdoor activities
Roc de Chère National Nature Reserve, Talloires
38 min walk • The Roc de Chère National Nature Reserve is a major ecologic site in southeastern France. A protected nature reserve since 1977, it covers a small area of 69 hectares. It is located near the commune of Talloires, on the eastern bank of Lake Annecy at an elevation of 448 metres.
3.9 miNW
Park
Le Pâquier, Annecy
100 min walk • The Pâquier or Champ de Mars is a vast landscaped promenade of seven and a half hectares in the commune of Annecy located on the shores of Lake Annecy and offering one of the most beautiful perspectives on the lake and the surrounding mountains.
3.8 miNW
Bridge
Pont des Amours, Annecy
98 min walk • The Pont des Amours is a footbridge located on the edge of Lake Annecy at the entrance of the Canal du Vassé; its official name is "Passerelle du Jardin Public" but the inhabitants of Annecy have long since renamed it "Pont des Amours".