Annecy is the prefecture and largest city of the Haute-Savoie department in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of Southeastern France. It lies on the northern tip of Lake Annecy, 35 kilometers south of Geneva, Switzerland.

 

The city  has a long history linked to it’s strategic position on the route between Geneva and Italy at the northern tip of Lake Annecy. Originally a Roman site in the 1st century AD, Annecy developed into a major centre of the Counter-Reformation. The city became French only in 1860 after being in the possession of the Dukes of Savoy for a very long time. Today, the beauty of Annecy derives from its medieval district (the Venice of the Alps), its massive castles , its unique architecture and the beautiful views of the lake.  From its crowning Château d’Annecy down to its gurgling canals, Annecy’s Vieille Ville (Old Town) is infused with antique charm.

 

 Annecy still has numerous 16th- and 17th-century buildings, now painted in shades of peach and rose and housing restaurants, bakeries and boutiques. It is also a popular destination for adventure lovers who can enjoy hiking , biking and skiing. For the more aquatically inclined, Lake Annecy has options like paddle boarding , scuba diving , catamaran and yacht rentals. 

When visiting in summer, there are plenty of sandy or grassy beaches dotted along the picturesque lake. A swim in the refreshing, crystal-clear water serves as a perfect opportunity to relax and take in the remarkable views that Annecy has to offer.

 

Another good reason for visiting Annecy is the local cuisine. Haute-Savoie is home to several of France’s most iconic cheeses, including Reblochon, Tome, comté, and Beaufort, which all mix exquisitely to create an impossibly appealing fondue savoyarde.