The most beautiful hikes around Annecy
Annecy is a dream destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you are looking for breathtaking views, family-friendly trails or sporting challenges, the mountains surrounding the lake are full of hikes to discover. But why stop there? After reaching the summits, treat yourself to a unique experience: a paragliding flight over Lake Annecy!
Mont Veyrier and Mont Baron
Perched above Annecy, Mont Veyrier and Mont Baron offer a 180° view of the lake and the Alpine massifs. From the ridges, the panorama is spectacular, perfect for a picnic with a breathtaking view of the lake and the city of Annecy. The trail is particularly busy in summer. An early start allows you to enjoy the calm and the soft light of the sunrise.
- Difficulty: medium
- Duration: 3h30 to 4h30
- Elevation gain: approx. 850 m
- Starting point: Pré Vernet car park or Petit Port in Annecy-le-Vieux
Discover the route from Pré Vernet
Discover the route from the Petit Port
La Tournette, the mythical and dizzying summit
The highest point around the lake at 2,351 metres, La Tournette is a demanding hike but is rewarded with a 360° panorama of the Alps and Mont Blanc. It is an unmissable adventure for lovers of the great outdoors and thrills. The last section requires a few technical passages with chains and ladders. Good physical condition and a head for heights are recommended.
- Difficulty: difficult
- Duration: 6 to 7 hours return trip
- Elevation: approx. 1,300 m
- Starting point: Prés Ronds car park
The Roc de Chère, for a family walk a stone's throw from the lake
This nature reserve between Talloires and Menthon-Saint-Bernard offers an easy hike with belvederes overlooking the lake. Its shady trail is ideal for a family walk and allows you to admire a rich biodiversity. Keep your eyes open!
- Difficulty: easy
- Duration: 2 hours
- Elevation gain: approx. 200 m
Le Semnoz
Easy to access, Le Semnoz offers several trails and a summit with an incredible view of the lake, the Bauges and Mont Blanc. In winter, the mountain transforms into a family ski resort, perfect for extending the experience. The summit is accessible by car, making it an ideal option for hikers who want quick access to the panoramic views.
- Difficulty: easy to moderate
- Duration: 2 to 3 hours
- Elevation: approx. 400 metres
The Angon Waterfall
Located a few kilometres from Annecy, near Talloires, this short hike takes you to the Angon waterfall, a wild and unspoilt place. The route, although short, has a fairly significant difference in altitude and can be slippery in wet weather.
- Difficulty: medium to difficult
- Duration: 2 hours 25 minutes
- Difference in altitude: approximately 382 metres
- Starting point: Route des Vignes car park
The Arête du Taillefer
The hike along the Taillefer ridge, located on the western shore of Lake Annecy, offers a panoramic route starting from Duingt. After a gradual climb through the forest, the trail follows a ridge offering a breathtaking view of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Accessible to hikers accustomed to steep paths, this relatively uncrowded hike is an ideal alternative to the more popular routes in the area.
- Difficulty: medium
- Duration: 3 to 4 hours
- Elevation gain: 400 m
- Starting point: church of Duingt
Col de la Forclaz: the epicentre of paragliding
Perched at an altitude of 1,147 metres, the Col de la Forclaz attracts hikers and paragliding enthusiasts alike. Accessible via several hiking routes, it overlooks the lake and is one of the best paragliding spots in Europe. The pass has several inns where you can sample local specialities while watching the paragliders take off.
Fancy an exceptional flight? K2 Parapente, based in Annecy, offers first paragliding experiences for all levels with experienced instructors. Take off from the Col de la Forclaz and fly over the lake for a unique experience.
