Saint-Jorioz on Lake Annecy

On Lake Annecy and in the Bauges Massif

Saint-Jorioz lies on the shore of Lake Annecy and within the Massif des Bauges Regional Nature Park. The lakeshore and nature park represent two distinct aspects of the area: its connection to the lake and its place within the regional nature park. When planning a stay, it is worth distinguishing between specific interests: the beach and cycling promenade relate to the lake, while the trails take in a variety of landscapes and natural features. The architectural heritage and Maison de Pays du Laudon add local cultural history to this selection.

Trails with different highlights

The Patérier loop leads to the farming hamlet of Patérier, through varied landscapes and to viewpoints overlooking the lake. The starting point is the church in Saint-Jorioz. If travelling by bus from Annecy, use the Mairie stop; from Doussard, use the Gendarmerie stop. Bus routes 15A-B or Y51 serve these stops. Check the timetable for the day of your visit if you plan to use either stop to start the trail.

The Sentier des Roselières has a different natural feature at its heart: the trail runs through one of the largest reed beds on Lake Annecy, a protected area and habitat for numerous waterbirds. The two trails therefore have different highlights: the Patérier loop features a hamlet, varied landscapes and views, while the Sentier des Roselières focuses on the reed bed and its birdlife. Saint-Jorioz also has a lakeside cycling promenade—another way to include the lake in your plans by bike.

Beach and access to the water

Saint-Jorioz’s municipal beach is a large sandy and grassy beach, with views of the Dents de Lanfon and La Tournette. Facilities include volleyball and pétanque courts, a diving platform, jetties and children’s play areas. There is something for different interests: the named sports facilities, other amenities by the water and play options for children, all complemented by views of the mountains.

A ramp at the beach leads down to the water. Two amphibious chairs are provided free of charge to make it easier for people with reduced mobility to access the water.

Architectural heritage and everyday history

The church in Saint-Jorioz is part of the commune’s architectural heritage and also serves as the starting point for the Patérier loop. Housed in a 19th-century farmhouse, the Maison de Pays du Laudon displays objects from everyday life and working life in the past. Exhibits include agricultural tools, a cheese-making room, a kitchen, a reconstructed classroom and a bedroom. The exhibition thus covers everything from agricultural work and household life to reconstructed spaces for learning and sleeping. It offers a focus on everyday history alongside the natural attractions around the lake.

Discover more destinations: Arâches-La-Frasse, Mont-Saxonnex, Bons-En-Chablais, Maxilly-sur-Léman, Messery, Faucigny, Saint-Cergues, Annecy-Le-Vieux.

For the overview of the wider region: Haute-Savoie.