Explore the Lakeside Town of Annecy, Annecy

Nestled by the northwestern shore of its namesake lake, Annecy is the jewel of the Haute-Savoie. From its crowning Château d'Annecy down to its gurgling canals, Annecy's Vieille Ville (Old Town) is infused with antique charm. Made great by the medieval Counts of Geneva and augmented by the Dukes of Savoy, Annecy still has numerous 16th- and 17th-century buildings, now awash in shades of peach and rose. Many house restaurants, bakeries, and boutiques that you can enjoy. And with canals trickling through the center of town, Annecy earns its reputation as the "Alpine Venice."

Lac d'Annecy, speckled with swans and rowing boats, is said to have the cleanest waters in Europe, allowing Annecy's outdoorsy residents to revel in all its spectacular nature. You'll find locals rowing the lake, zipping through town on rollerblades and bicycles, and, in winter, driving to nearby ski areas like La Clusaz. After a few lungfuls of mountain air, you might feel compelled to join them!

Discover more unique excursions in and around Lyon and experience in the French Alps.