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5 must-do walks around Annecy and its lake

Août 2024

5 must-do walks around Annecy and its lake

Annecy, often referred to as the “Venice of the Alps”, is not only famous for its sparkling lake and picturesque old town, but also for its magnificent hiking trails. 

Whether you're a fan of leisurely strolls or more demanding climbs, the Annecy region offers a variety of routes for all levels. 

Here are our top 5 not-to-be-missed hikes around Annecy  

The Semnoz 

For breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Annecy and the surrounding mountains, the Semnoz is a must. This massif, just 25 kilometers from Annecy, offers several hiking trails.

The 10-kilometer Crête trail is particularly popular for its spectacular panoramas. The climb is steep, but once you reach the top, the reward is worth it: a 360-degree view of the lake and the Alpine peaks.

There are many hikes to choose from, varying in difficulty and duration. Le Reposoir is estimated to take 3h00, the traverse of the Semnoz is estimated to take 6h30 (crossing between the villages of Leschaux and Machevaz).

The Roc de Chère tour

The Roc de Chère, a nature reserve on the shores of Lake Annecy, offers an easy hike accessible to all. The 7-kilometre trail (approx. 2h30) winds through dense forest and along the shores of the lake. The trail is well signposted, making it ideal for families and beginners. You'll be able to observe a wide variety of wildlife.

Take time to stop at the lookout to admire the lake from a different angle.

The Mont Baron

For a more challenging hike, Mont Baron is an excellent choice. This mountain offers breathtaking views of the lake and the town of Annecy. The route is quite demanding, with a relatively high vertical drop (+ 467 m, - 461 m) over some 7 kilometers. It's also an ideal place to watch the sun set over the Alps, a memorable experience you won't want to miss.

The views from the summit are well worth the effort.

The Tournette

For seasoned hikers, the Tournette is a major challenge. La Tournette is the highest point on Lake Annecy. This 12-kilometer hike, which can take between 6 and 8 hours, requires good physical condition. The trail, though challenging, offers spectacular panoramas of the lake and surrounding mountains. This hike offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Massif des Bornes, Lake Annecy and Mont Blanc. 

 

Caution: the terrain can be slippery, especially at the start of the season. Be well prepared and make sure you have the necessary equipment for this exhilarating adventure.

 

The Col de la Forclaz

The Col de la Forclaz is another jewel of the region. Choose between starting from the end of the lake (11 km, approx. 6 hrs walk) or from Montmin (9.5 km, approx. 4 hrs 30 mins walk).

The Col de la Forclaz, famous for paragliding flights, is also renowned for its magnificent alpine meadows and panoramic views of Mont Blanc on a clear day. It's an ideal place for photography enthusiasts and those looking to recharge their batteries in a breathtaking natural setting.

Whether you're an avid hiker or simply looking for a nice walk, Annecy and the surrounding area offer a wide choice of options to suit all tastes and abilities, with exceptional views of the lake and mountains.  

We've already presented our top 5 hikes around Annecy, but if you'd like to vary the activities during your stay, we invite you to read our article on the best flying activities around Lake Annecy, our article on the best water activities in Haute-Savoie and our top 5 summer activities

During your stay at the Boutik Hôtel, we'll be on hand to advise you on the best things to do around Annecy, according to your preferences.

We look forward to welcoming you.