Overlooking the sparkling waters of Lac Annecy, Annecy-le-Vieux is a largely residential area east of Annecy. It’s a popular base for exploring the town’s cobblestone streets, winding canals and medieval chateau and there are plenty of waterfront restaurants and wine bars to explore.
Things to do in Annecy-le-Vieux
Perched on the north shore of Lac Annecy is Parc Charles Bosson, which offers impressive views of the surrounding mountains. It’s an idyllic place for a picnic, to play petanque or rent a paddleboat and there’s a family-friendly water park with a lakeside pool and water slide. Adjacent lies La Volière de l’Impérial, a bird park where you can get up close to colourful peacocks, pheasants and geese.
Want to stretch your legs? Walk past the elegant manor houses lining the wooded hillside of Annecy-le-Vieux to reach the hiking trails of Petit Montoir. Enjoy the sweeping views across Annecy and the lake below, then follow the ridgeline to the Château de Menthon-Saint-Bernard. This medieval castle boasts more than 100 rooms that are beautifully decorated with period furnishings and antiques.
For a day at the beach, head to the Plage d’Albigny, which is backed by a grassy lawn ideal for sunbathing in between swims. It’s a short stroll from Port d’Annecy-le-Vieux where you can learn to sail or rent a boat to explore Lac Annecy at your leisure. On the other side of Plage d’Albigny is the whitewashed Casino Impérial Annecy.
Getting around Annecy-le-Vieux
Annecy-le-Vieux is a 10-minute drive from the centre of Annecy and the Annecy railway station, which has regular trains to Lyon and Chambery. Buses travel throughout Annecy-le-Vieux while the waterfront area features a cycling and pedestrian promenade.