Lakeside Promenade Annecy
Annecy's Lakeside Promenade, the 'Pearl of the French Alps,' offers stunning mountain vistas and crystal-clear waters, perfect for strolls, boat trips...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Serene waters, fewer crowds
Lakeside Promenade Annecy
Best Time
Serene waters, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Annecy's Lakeside Promenade, the 'Pearl of the French Alps,' offers stunning mountain vistas and crystal-clear waters, perfect for strolls, boat trips, and kayaking.
"One of the most beautiful cruises ever, we took the hour and a half cruise and enjoyed some sensational views of Lake Annecy."
🛶 Kayak rental tip
Book transparent kayaks in advance, especially for sunrise tours!
🚢 Boat tour commentary
Bring earphones for commentary; onboard audio can be hard to follow.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Pont des Amours
Entrance to Canal du Vassé
Iconic bridge offering romantic views and a legendary spot for couples to share a kiss.
Lakeside Promenade Stroll
Along the shores of Lake Annecy
A picturesque walk with breathtaking mountain backdrops and crystal-clear waters.
Transparent Kayak Adventure
Various rental points on the lake
Paddle through turquoise waters with an unobstructed view of the lakebed.
Lake Annecy Boat Cruise
Various departure points
Experience sensational views of the lake and surrounding Alps from the water.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Lakeside Charm
Timing is Everything
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🛶 Kayak rental tip
Book transparent kayaks in advance, especially for sunrise tours!
🚢 Boat tour commentary
Bring earphones for commentary; onboard audio can be hard to follow.
🚶♀️ Promenade stroll
Enjoy the 'Pearl of the French Alps' with its clean waters and mountain views.
🚲 Bike rental
Rent bikes for a scenic ride along the lake; approx. 12€ for 2 hours.
Tips
from all over the internet
🛶 Kayak rental tip
Book transparent kayaks in advance, especially for sunrise tours!
🚢 Boat tour commentary
Bring earphones for commentary; onboard audio can be hard to follow.
🚶♀️ Promenade stroll
Enjoy the 'Pearl of the French Alps' with its clean waters and mountain views.
🚲 Bike rental
Rent bikes for a scenic ride along the lake; approx. 12€ for 2 hours.
🎟️ Cruise tickets
Consider buying boat tickets online for potential savings.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the stunning beauty of Lake Annecy and its promenade, highlighting the sensational views and the 'Pearl of the French Alps' ambiance. Many recommend boat cruises for their scenic value, though some note issues with commentary clarity. The overall experience is described as enjoyable and highly recommended for its natural beauty and recreational opportunities.
"One of the most beautiful cruises ever, we took the hour and a half cruise and enjoyed some sensational views of Lake Annecy.
I recommend 100!"
Nechita Valentin
"We did the 90 minute cruise which doesn't quite make it to the end of the lake. There is a commentary in various languages available via qr code on your phone.. make sure that you bring earphones! I didn't so tried to translate the onboard french commentary via Google. This did not work... Total rubbish. I chatted with a french lady from Paris and she said the commentary was too fast for her! So just sit back on the plastic chair ( as you board, upstairs is standing only) and enjoy the lovely ride using Google maps to explain things that you see."
Mike Whitehouse
"I made the Grand Lac one hour cruise with this company: I bought the ticket online (19€) and then embarked on the boat from Quai de la Tournette. Besides the captain there's a tourist guide giving information about the lake and its surroundings. It's been an enjoyable experience, I wouldn't suggest taking a longer cruise."
Francesco Xodo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The promenade is easily accessible from Annecy's old town. If arriving by car, parking is available in designated lots near the lake. Public transport options include local buses that stop near the promenade.
Yes, the promenade is flat and well-maintained, making it ideal for walking, cycling, and even strollers.
Absolutely! Annecy is a very walkable city, and the promenade is a central feature. Many visitors explore the area on foot or by bike.
Boat tours are a popular way to see the lake, offering different durations and routes. Kayaking, paddleboarding, and cycling along the shore are also excellent options.
The promenade stretches along a significant portion of the lake's edge, with multiple access points from the town center and surrounding parks. The Pont des Amours is a notable landmark at one end.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, access to the Lakeside Promenade itself is free. However, activities like boat cruises or kayak rentals will require separate tickets.
Prices vary depending on the duration and company. A 1.5-hour cruise typically costs around 19-25€ per person.
Tickets can often be purchased online in advance or directly at the ticket booths located at various quays along the promenade.
Yes, the Fête du Lac, an annual fireworks festival, takes place in August and is a major event. Booking boat tours for this event is highly recommended well in advance.
Boat rental hours typically align with daylight hours, often from morning until early evening. It's best to check with individual rental companies for specific times.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Don't miss the Pont des Amours for romantic views, and enjoy the general ambiance of strolling by the 'Pearl of the French Alps'.
You can enjoy leisurely walks, cycling, swimming (in designated areas), boat tours, and renting transparent kayaks for a unique perspective.
Yes, it's a great family-friendly destination with plenty of space to run around, beautiful scenery, and enjoyable activities like boat rides.
Early mornings offer tranquility and beautiful light for photos, while late afternoons provide a lovely golden hour glow. Evenings can be magical, especially during events like the Fête du Lac.
Yes, there are numerous benches and grassy areas where you can sit, relax, and soak in the views of the lake and mountains.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the old town of Annecy, adjacent to the promenade, offers a wide array of restaurants, cafes, and bakeries serving local Savoyard specialties and international cuisine.
Absolutely! There are many scenic spots along the promenade and nearby parks perfect for a picnic. You can pick up supplies from local bakeries and markets.
Try Savoyard specialties like fondue or raclette. Local bakeries also offer delicious pastries, including croissants and pain au chocolat.
Many cafes and restaurants along the promenade offer outdoor seating with beautiful views of Lake Annecy.
Dining prices can vary. You can find budget-friendly options like bakeries and casual eateries, as well as more upscale restaurants.
📸 📸 Photography
The Pont des Amours, the colorful buildings reflected in the canals, and panoramic shots of the lake with the mountains are all fantastic photo opportunities.
Sunrise offers soft, beautiful light and fewer crowds. Golden hour in the late afternoon also provides stunning, warm light for memorable photos.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive lake and mountain vistas. A telephoto lens can be useful for details in the mountains or distant shores.
Renting a transparent kayak allows for unique underwater shots and perspectives from the water's surface.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💑 Couples and Romance
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Lake Annecy by Boat
For a more intimate experience, renting a private boat or even a pedal boat allows for flexibility and the chance to discover hidden coves. Transparent kayaks are also a popular choice, offering a unique perspective from just above the water's surface, allowing you to see the clear lakebed below. These activities are perfect for capturing stunning photos and enjoying the serene beauty of the lake at your own pace.
Activities Beyond the Promenade
The charming old town, with its canals and medieval architecture, is perfect for wandering, discovering local boutiques, and enjoying delicious Savoyard cuisine. Don't miss the iconic Pont des Amours, a bridge steeped in local legend and offering picturesque views. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, Annecy provides a diverse range of experiences to complement your lakeside stroll.
The Magic of Sunrise and Sunset
Sunsets, on the other hand, paint the sky with vibrant hues, creating a dramatic backdrop for the lake and the town. Many visitors enjoy a leisurely stroll along the promenade during this time, or opt for a sunset boat cruise to fully immerse themselves in the spectacle. The Fête du Lac, an annual fireworks display, transforms the evening into a dazzling celebration, making it a truly unforgettable experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit