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Lake · Annecy, Auvérnia-Ródano-Alpes
Lac d'Annecy
Glacial lake about 14 km long, surrounded by mountains. You can take boat trips, walk along the shore and visit villages like Talloires.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Lac d'Annecy
Lac d'Annecy formed at the end of the last glaciation, when the large Alpine glaciers melted. It is the second-largest glacial lake located entirely in France, after the Lac du Bourget, and is known for its clear water, fed by mountain streams and by an underwater spring.
The Compagnie des Bateaux du Lac d'Annecy runs boat trips from central Annecy, lasting 1 hour to 1h30, with commentary on board. There are also crossings that stop at shoreline villages, generally from spring to early autumn. Check the schedule before you go.
On the eastern shore are Talloires and Menthon-Saint-Bernard, villages with piers and views of the lake and Château de Menthon. In the European summer, June to August, there are beaches and bathing areas with paid or free access, and the lake is used for rowing, stand-up paddle and paragliding launches from the mountains.
In town, the lakeside has the Pâquier lawn, the Jardins de l'Europe and the Pont des Amours, from which you can see the lake with the mountains in the background.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
1 to 2 hours for a boat trip and a walk along the shore; a full day if you include the villages.
Best time
From May to September, when boats run more often. In summer, July to August, the water is usually good for swimming and the shore becomes crowded. In the late afternoon, the light on the mountains is often beautiful for photos.
How to get there
The boat dock is on the lakeshore, near the Pâquier, about a 15-minute walk from the Gare d'Annecy. Talloires and Menthon-Saint-Bernard are about 12 km away, by bus, car, bike or boat in season.
Tip
A bike path runs along the lake's west shore and is good for cycling; you can rent bikes in town. Bring a jacket on the boat: it’s windier in the middle of the lake.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Lac d'Annecy
Can you swim in the Lac d'Annecy?
Yes, at beaches and designated bathing areas along the shore, mainly from June to August. Some require a fee.
How long does the boat trip last?
The most common boat tours last from 1 hour to 1½ hours, circling the lake with onboard commentary. Check schedules and the season.
Which villages should you visit around the lake?
Talloires and Menthon-Saint-Bernard on the east shore are the most popular. Menthon has a castle that can be visited.
Can you cycle around the lake?
Yes. A cycle path follows the west shore, and there are bike rental facilities in Annecy.