Things to do at Lake Annecy: 2026 reviews and activity pricing

+27
recos
5/5 6 reviews
Lac d'Annecy, 74000 Annecy, France
Lac d'Annecy, 74000 Annecy, France
Over 200 activities from $10*
Booking recommended
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Lac d'Annecy

How to experience Lake Annecy, from nature and relaxation to active pursuits

Located in the Haute-Savoie region, Lake Annecy is known for its clear waters and mountainous backdrop. Whether you enjoy quiet walks, water sports, or high-adrenaline activities, this destination offers a variety of experiences for every type of traveler.

A lake with many facets

Lake Annecy and its magnificent landscapes

Considered one of the purest lakes in Europe, and one of the most beautiful, Lake Annecy stretches for about 14 km. Its shores alternate between manicured beaches, picturesque villages, and protected natural areas. The old town of Annecy, often called the Venice of the Alps, charms visitors with its canals, cobblestone alleys, and medieval castle. Nature lovers can explore the Bout du Lac nature reserve or the Roc de Chère, both offering exceptional panoramas of the lake and the surrounding mountains.

Choosing a rental with a lake view

To get the most out of your stay, booking a rental with a view of the water is a smart move. The villages of Talloires, Veyrier-du-Lac, or Duingt are particularly popular for their sunny exposure and tranquility. Rates vary based on the season and the type of property, but it is wise to book several months in advance, especially for the summer season. Here is a link to a platform that selects the best apartments with a view of Lake Annecy.

Your meals with a view of the lake? The dream!

Activities around the lake

Water activities

Lake Annecy is a playground for those who enjoy being on the water.

  • Swimming is available at many beaches, such as those at Albigny or Saint-Jorioz.
  • For a more active exploration, stand-up paddleboard rentals are available starting at 15 EUR (about $16).
  • Boats without a license can be rented for about 120 EUR (about $130) for a half-day, offering total freedom on the water.
  • The most adventurous can try canyoning in the nearby gorges, with 3-hour sessions starting at 69 EUR (about $75).

Boat rental without a license

Hiking

The area around the lake offers many opportunities for hiking.

  • The Voie Verte (Greenway) allows you to circle the lake on foot or by bike over a distance of 43 km.
  • Electric bikes are available for rent starting at 9 EUR (about $10) per hour.
  • For a different experience, horseback riding is offered in the surrounding area, with one-hour sessions starting at 35 EUR (about $38).

Adrenaline activities

Paragliding above Lake Annecy

Those seeking outdoor thrills will find plenty to do in Annecy:

  • Paragliding is a signature activity in Annecy. Tandem flights are offered starting at 90 EUR (about $98), providing an unobstructed view of the lake and the mountains.
  • Hang gliding is also an option, with rates starting at 115 EUR (about $125).
  • For a unique experience, hot air balloon flights are available starting at 290 EUR (about $315), allowing you to soar over the region in total peace.
Over 200 activities from $10*Booking recommended
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Reviews of Lake Annecy

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Summary of 6 reviews
5/5
Average rating
+27
Total recommendations

Ratings by visit type

With family
5
As a couple
5
With friends
5

Avygeo ranking

#73
in the world
#69
in Europe
#42
in France
#1
in Annecy

A beautiful destination

I discovered Lake Annecy during the Annecy Marathon in April.
The course runs along the western part of the lake all the way to Doussard, offering a sporty way to discover the surroundings.

Even for non-marathoners, the scenery is magnificent and everything is designed for a pleasant and refreshing stay.

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Postcard perfect, and then some

Stunning lake surrounded by a magnificent setting in the Alps. You can swim there, the water is clean but a little chilly, go on boat trips...

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Crystal clear water

I was surprised by how pure the water is at Lake Annecy. You can swim in it without any worries. In the summer, you can find tons of water activities, whether it is paddleboarding, canoeing, or boating. There is something for everyone. The lake is huge, and it is really nice to walk or bike all around it.

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A paradise for sports and relaxation

With its magnificent turquoise waters nestled in the mountains, Lake Annecy invites you to relax just as much as it invites you to get active. There are several beaches where you can enjoy a good sunbath. The one at L'Impérial, with its lounge chairs and bar, remains the best equipped.

Beyond swimming, the lake is full of activities. You can go diving, rent paddleboards, pedal boats, or boats that don't require a license. If you aren't too prone to motion sickness, I really recommend paragliding from the Col de la Forclaz. The view of the lake and mountains from the sky is breathtaking. Unforgettable memories guaranteed!

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A city lake that remains the purest in Europe

Beyond being an exemplary lake in terms of purity, Lake Annecy is a place of breathtaking beauty, surrounded by mountains and right in the city. You can walk or bike around it, swim in its translucent waters, and some beaches even allow dogs. Boats with or without a license for rent, diving, paddleboarding, yoga-paddle, windsurfing, rowing, just lounging around, in short, the good life.

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Tons of activities

Mountain lake connected to various small streams and mountain torrents. Tons of activities are possible. Of course, there is swimming, with a few beaches set up to accommodate swimmers in good conditions. The water is clear but chilly :)
There are also diving schools for scuba diving in the sometimes deep waters of the lake.
On the surface or around it: sailing, paddleboarding, water skiing, canyoning, rafting, via ferrata... there is something for everyone.

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