Annecy-Le-Vieux: Lakeside, Hiking Trails and Heritage
Accommodation in Annecy-Le-Vieux
Annecy-Le-Vieux can be explored through several distinct themes: hiking trails on Mont Veyrier, the shores of Lake Annecy and historic buildings each give a trip a different focus. The following places and activities offer practical guidance.
Hiking and Scenery on Mont Veyrier
Mont Veyrier has numerous hiking trails and offers panoramic views of Lake Annecy and the surrounding mountains. The Boucle du Mont Veyrier offers views of Lake Annecy, the Aravis, the Bauges and Mont Blanc. Visitors who are especially interested in scenery on a hike will find specific points of reference here: the lake and the named mountain ranges. Parc Gabriel Fauré offers a different perspective, with views of Annecy and Lake Annecy. This brings mountain panoramas and views of the town and lake together as distinct scenic highlights.
A different way to enjoy the outdoors is the lakeside footpath between the Impérial Palace and Veyrier. It passes Albigny Beach, the reed beds and Petit-Port; a section then continues along boardwalks. This makes it easy to plan a day around either mountain panoramas or a lakeside route with stretches through reeds and along boardwalks.
Lakeside and Activities on Lake Annecy
Albigny Beach is open year-round and free to access. The spacious grassy beach is intended for swimmers and walkers; a cycle path runs nearby. Free floating seats are available to people with reduced mobility to help them access the water. The facilities also include showers and toilets, and a rowing club is nearby. If seasonal supervision or specific services are important to your plans, check the latest information before your visit.
Activities on Lake Annecy include pedal boating, water skiing, windsurfing, sailing, rowing and scuba diving. The lake offers a range of ways to spend active time on the water.
Romanesque, Gothic and More Recent Cultural History
The Romanesque bell tower dates from the 12th century and has been protected as a historic monument since 1908. Its 15th-century wall paintings were revealed again during restoration work in 1988. The building thus brings together Romanesque architecture and a later body of artwork. The Chapelle de Provins provides an architectural contrast: its architecture is Gothic.
Villa Dunand is also connected with local history. It was the residence of composer Gabriel Fauré for several summers between 1919 and 1924; the villa itself is not open to visitors. Another historical feature is the sublacustrine, or underwater, archaeological site at Petit-Port, which preserves traces of pile dwellings.
Forest Trail and Parcours des Glaisins
The Parcours sportif des Glaisins offers a forest trail more than two kilometres long, part of which runs alongside the Ruisseau des FĂ©es. Facilities include sports and health trails for people with and without disabilities, rest areas and information in Braille at the entrance. The site can thus be appreciated for both its forest route and its range of activity, relaxation and information features.
Discover more destinations: MĂ©gevette, Viry, Faverges, Dingy-Saint-Clair, Cervens, Seytroux, Les Gets, Neydens
For the broader travel overview: Haute-Savoie.
