Lake Annecy is a prime destination for sports activities. It’s a true playground for sports enthusiasts. Nestled between the lake and the mountains, the region offers a wide range of activities year-round: scenic cycling, Alpine passes, hiking, aerial sports, and even skiing in the winter.
Whether you're a casual athlete or a thrill-seeker, there are plenty of options.
Bike ride around the lake (40 km)
The full loop around Lake Annecy is about 40 kilometers long and is accessible via a bike path that is almost entirely safe. It is the most popular sporting activity in the area.
The route is mostly flat, with a slightly hillier section between Talloires and Menthon-Saint-Bernard. It is one of the most beautiful cycling loops in France.
Gravel & Alpine Passes
For more experienced cyclists, the Annecy area offers quick access to iconic mountain passes. The Col de la Forclaz, the Col des Aravis, and the Semnoz provide challenging and scenic routes. Gravel biking is particularly well-suited to the region thanks to its many secondary roads and varied terrain.
Paragliding at Col de la Forclaz
The takeoff at Col de la Forclaz is one of the most famous in Europe.
A tandem paragliding flight over Lake Annecy offers spectacular views of Talloires Bay, the mountains, and the turquoise waters below. This activity is available as an introductory flight, supervised by professional instructors.
Hike to Semnoz
The Semnoz is one of the most accessible mountain ranges from the lake.
Its trails offer panoramic views of Mont Blanc (on clear days), as well as family-friendly routes and more challenging hikes. It’s a perfect alternative to swimming for a change of pace.
Mountain trail
The region is a hotspot for trail running, particularly thanks to the Maxi-Race, which is held every year around the lake.
The Bauges, Semnoz, and Tournette mountain ranges offer technical and challenging routes for runners looking for elevation gain.
Rock Climbing
There are several cliffs around the lake where you can go rock climbing, particularly near Talloires and the Roc de Chère. The routes are suitable for climbers of all skill levels, from beginners to experts.
Via ferrata
A blend of hiking and rock climbing, via ferrata allows you to safely navigate equipped rock faces. Routes are available in the Annecy area and in the neighboring mountain ranges.
Golf (Talloires & Giez)
The Talloires Golf Course is renowned for its exceptional setting between the lake and the mountains. In Giez, the golf course also offers a scenic course in a pristine natural setting. It’s the perfect way to combine exercise and relaxation.
Cross-country and downhill skiing in winter
In winter, the lake serves as a gateway to the surrounding resorts. The Semnoz offers downhill and cross-country skiing right nearby. The Aravis resorts (La Clusaz, Le Grand-Bornand) are less than an hour away.
Lake Annecy thus offers a rare variety of outdoor activities: water, mountains, fresh air, and snow all come together to make it possible to enjoy these activities year-round.
