If you enjoy walking on your summer holiday in the French Alps, then there’s plenty of hiking in Annecy for you to discover. Not only is it of the most beautiful towns in France, but Annecy is also home to incredible views over the lake and surrounding mountains.
Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly route around Lake Annecy or a challenging hike to the lofty heights of the surrounding peaks, we’ve got some great suggestions for you below.
Annecy hikes for beginners
Annecy Old Town
Distance: 2.7km
Duration: 40m
Elevation: 39m
This short walk is a perfect way to discover the historic town of Annecy and its canals lined with medieval buildings – perhaps a short stroll before dinner?
Start at the Place de l’Hotel de Ville, take in the Saint-Maurice Church and continue through the alleys towards the Canal Saint-Dominique and the Quai des Clarisses.
Head back via the Quai de l’Eveché and the Quai de l’Ile, pausing to take in the Palais de l’Ile.
You could end your walk with a stroll around the Gardens of Europe, which overlook Lake Annecy.
The River Thiou
Distance: 7 km
Duration: 2 hours
Altitude difference: less than 50 m
This is a level walk suitable for all abilities and is a great choice after lunch in Annecy old town.
Simply follow the Thiou from the Palais de l’Isle away from the lake.
Once out of the heart of the old town the path is shaded by trees.
Children will love spotting the ducks lazily floating on the river!
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Annecy Hiking Trails for Intermediates
The Cascade d’Angon (The Angon Waterfall)
Distance: 4.7 km
Duration: 2h15
Altitude difference: 300 m
A beautiful Lake Annecy hike is to the Cascade d’Angon (the Angon waterfall).
This lovely path from Talloires leads you through the forest to the impressive waterfall. In the heat of the summer, the clear pools make a great spot for a dip! Just be aware some parts of the hike are fairly steep and can become slippery, so make sure you’re wearing sensible shoes.
Alternatively, wait until you return to the lake and dive in at the Plage d’Angon, one of the many beautiful Lake Annecy beaches.
The Roc de Chère
Distance: 6.5 km
Duration: 2.5 hours
Altitude difference: 270 m
Start at Menthon-St-Bernard, where there is plenty of parking.
This beautiful nature reserve has a network of fabulous footpaths through the shady forest which are suitable for all ages of hiker.
Make sure to reach the Belvedere for a great picnic spot with a stunning view down to Lake Annecy. Head back to the port to cool off with an ice cream and a swim.
Advanced Hiking in Annecy
Mont Veyrier loop
Distance: 10km
Duration: 5 hours
Altitude difference: 900m
One of the most popular Annecy hiking trails, this route offers stunning views of the lake, the town of Annecy, the Aravis range and Mont Blanc Massif.
The starting point is from the car park at Veyrier-du-Lac, a short distance from Annecy itself and the route takes you up to a ridge high up above the lake.
It is possible (and recommended!) to continue along the ridge to the neighbouring peak of Mont Baron.
La Tournette
Distance: 8 km
Duration: 5h30
Altitude difference: 926m
At the highest peak of Lake Annecy at 2351m, La Tournette boasts some of the most impressive hiking trails in the area.
A popular starting point for getting to the summit is from Chalet de l’Aulp above Montmin. The route takes you over grassy fields and rocky paths and leads you to one of the best views in the Haute-Savoie.
Annecy Crest Trail
Distance: 15.4km
Duration: 4h40
Elevation gain 554m
This fairly challenging route through the Massif des Bauges Regional Natural park starts at the Bonlieu car park near the Prefecture in Annecy.
After a shady walk through the woods, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of Lake Annecy and La Tournette.
If you’re up for the challenge of a more advanced trail but don’t want to try it alone, you can book a guided tour with Activ’ Annecy.
Heading to Annecy this summer?
If you’re planning on visiting Annecy for a hiking holiday this summer, be sure to check out our selection of self-catered properties in the area…
