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ANNECY
If you’re looking for a charming getaway in France, look no further than the town of Annecy. Located in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, this is one of France’s most beautiful cities. Known as the “Venice of the Alps”, Annecy is famous for its eponymous lake, charming canals and picturesque medieval historic center. Whether you’re a fan of sport, history, nature or gastronomy, this city has a lot to offer. In this guide, we’ll show you the different things to do in Annecy, as well as the must-see places to visit to make the most of your stay.
ARCHITECTURAL JEWEL
THE OLD TOWN
Annecy’s old town is a real gem. Stroll its cobbled streets and admire the colorful 18th-century buildings. You’ll also find St. Peter’s Cathedral, a magnificent Gothic church dating back to the 13th century. The old town is also a fantastic place to go out for a meal or a leisurely stroll after an excellent meal at one of the local restaurants.
Annecy also boasts a number of museums and galleries, including the Palais de l’Île, a historic 12th-century building that has been converted into a museum. You can also visit Annecy’s castle-museum, which was built in the 12th century and houses exhibitions on the town’s history as well as contemporary art.
The town’s flagship activity is, of course, its animated film festival, which takes place every year in June. During this period, you can see all kinds of animated films, take part in film creation workshops and meet international artists. If you can’t visit the city during this festival, you should know that there are always summer festivities to liven up the quays and pedestrian streets of the old town.
Lake Annecy is another of the town’s attractions for tourists. This crystalline lake is the second largest natural lake in France, after Lac du Bourget. The Alps offer a majestic backdrop for hiking.
A walk in Annecy allows you to appreciate the quality of life and the beauty of nature throughout the city, as well as to discover its rich and diverse culture. Lake Annecy, renowned for its beauty and for the variety of water sports it offers, including kayaking and windsurfing. You can also hire pedal boats and even a motorboat for a more complete excursion. The lake also offers trails for hiking and biking, both very popular in summer.
For nature lovers, the Montagne du Veyrier is a must-see destination. This mountain offers breathtaking views of Lake Annecy and the surrounding mountains. You can also hike or snowshoe to the top of the mountain for a breathtaking panorama. There are also several accessible hiking trails for all skill levels and picnic areas to enjoy an outdoor lunch break. A destination of choice for paragliders too.
A DYNAMIC, SPORTY TOWN
LAKE AND MOUNTAIN
Annecy is a magnificent city that deserves to be visited by all tourists and travelers. With its tourist attractions, cultural and sporting activities, hiking trails and fine cuisine, Annecy has everything to please travelers from all horizons. To visit Annecy is to discover another facet of France while enjoying a unique and memorable experience. Don’t hesitate to explore all the wonders of this unique city!
AUTENTIK SELECTION
The properties
INSPIRATIONS
travel diary
You’ll find all kinds of ideas for activities, restaurants and wellness for your stay. Whether you’re looking for an adventurous outdoor excursion, a romantic dinner or a relaxing spa treatment, this guide has something for everyone. With detailed descriptions and insider tips, our travel guide will help you make the most of your stay. So start exploring and get ready to be inspired!
"ad necum"
HISTORY
Annecy was founded by the Romans in the 1st century, and its name is derived from the Latin word “ad necum”, meaning “by the river”. Over the centuries, Annecy has seen an eventful history of counts, dukes and kings.
The town’s heyday came in the 16th and 17th centuries with the construction of new canals to channel and control the waters of Lake Annecy. The city’s fortifications were also developed at this time, making it an important military base for controlling the region.
Today, Annecy is renowned for its natural beauty, earning the nickname “Venice of the Alps” for its canals, waterways and bridges. Today, the city boasts a rich cultural heritage, with an impressive number of museums, galleries and monuments testifying to its impressive past.
