Top 13 outdoor activities to do around Annecy
In Annecy, outdoor activities offer endless adventures in the heart of the French Alps. Whether it's paragliding over the sublime landscapes, snorkelling in the crystal-clear waters of the lake or hiking in the mountains, each activity promises unforgettable moments in a breathtaking natural setting.
Nicknamed the "Pearl of the French Alps" or the "Venice of the Alps" because of the two canals and the river Thiou that run through it, Annecy is a town built on a lake at the entrance to the Northern Pre-Alps massif, with a wide choice of activities to do in the region.
Romantic to a fault, this is a town where the tourist trade is largely focused on sport and outdoor activities. This is also reflected in the town's urban planning: 40.3% of the town's surface area is taken up by green spaces. Between the ski resorts and water sports on the lake or in white water, there's a wide range of outdoor activities in and around Annecy. Here's a quick overview of what you can do on land, in the water or in the air...
Paragliding over Lake Annecy
Paragliding over Lake Annecy is simply the outdoor activity not to be missed if you're visiting the region! In fact, the town is Europe's leading site for hang-gliding. As well as the perfect weather conditions for this sport, the beautiful lake (the second largest in France) offers magnificent views of the turquoise waters and green mountains around it.
Beginners can enjoy a tandem paragliding experience in optimal conditions, as qualified pilots will explain the take-off, flight and landing, the three essential stages of a paragliding flight. You'll soon be enchanted by a gentle flight over Lake Annecy, while admiring the Semnoz or La Tournette mountains and the famous Mont Blanc in the distance.
Canyoning near Annecy
Canyoning in Angon offers an exhilarating experience in the heart of wild, unspoilt nature. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced canoeist, a family or a solo rider, there are plenty of canyoning centres to help you enjoy this sport in complete safety. As you descend the tumultuous waters, you'll enjoy slides, small jumps and waterfalls, and be introduced to abseiling, particularly on a 30-metre descent.
You can also go canyoning at Montmin, which is wilder. The water, which comes from La Tournette (at an altitude of 2,357 metres), is cool and clear. There are some lovely pools on this route, but what makes it so original and famous are the many jumps along the way: they are up to 7 metres high! For the more timid, these jumps can be replaced by abseils or zip lines...
A wakeboard session on Lake Annecy
Wakeboarding in Annecy is a thrilling experience that combines the sensation of gliding on water with the picturesque scenery of the lake! This sport combines water-skiing, snowboarding and surfing techniques, so it's the perfect way to challenge yourself! Depending on your preference, you can opt for either wakeboarding or wakesurfing: all wakeboarding equipment is customised to suit your size and experience. For wakesurfing, the base offers skimboards and surfboards of different shapes and sizes. The high-quality equipment is renewed every two years or so to allow the introduction of the latest wakesurfing and wakeboarding technology.
You can also hire a boat with a pilot, so you can enjoy your favourite activity as much as you like, and finish off with a well-deserved aperitif with friends! In fact, did you know that the sport was born on Lake Annecy in 1920? All the more reason to give it a try! Introductory courses are also available, as well as personalised coaching, to improve your performance and take your riding experience even further...
Cliff climbing around Lake Annecy
Out of the swimming costume. Put on your climbing shoes. Head for the cliffs! Around Lake Annecy, a number of natural climbing sites await you, offering exceptional panoramic views. Climb the cliffs and you'll be in for a real treat, so get ready if you're a seasoned climber! There are also routes for children, so there really is something for everyone. Whether you're on the Angon, Semnoz-Bois Brulé or Grandes Suites sites, you can choose between a sporting day out with friends or an exploration of the more challenging routes, or even a family session!
The Annecy spot offers a wide range of options to satisfy climbing enthusiasts. Climbing in Annecy is one of the region's flagship activities, offering guaranteed thrills and a real sporting edge. As you climb, you'll be working all your muscles without even realising it.
Via ferrata near Annecy
Want to combine hiking, climbing, monkey bridges, zip-lines and abseiling? A via ferrata near Annecy is perfect for you! A unique climbing experience is on offer where you can enjoy some of the most popular routes, such as the one at La Sambuy, which stands out as a spectacular route at an altitude of 1,850 metres!
On this via ferrata, you can admire the superb Sambuy valley, Lake Annecy and Mont Blanc. On the Aravis massif, you can also try out the via ferrata at Thône, which offers a route at a more sporting level. It is a little higher than the route from Montmin, but the circuit is designed in such a way that it is possible to leave it frequently. Very well equipped and safe, this via ferrata "à la française" passes close to houses but is still very aerial. A real treat for fans of this outdoor sport...
Hang-gliding in Annecy
Hang-gliding is the ultimate outdoor activity in Annecy, and it's unique in that it offers sensations that are truly out of this world. Lying back under the canopy gives you the impression of flying like a bird. After just a few steps, you'll already be in the air. The impressive character of this sport is combined with great gentleness. You don't need to exert yourself, just let yourself glide through the air.
Hang-gliding in Annecy promises extraordinary views, thanks to the splendid lake and its mountainous, snow-covered surroundings. The packages on offer around Lake Annecy vary in difficulty. You can choose to go tandem for the first time, but for the more experienced, acrobatic flights are also possible. And if you can't decide between hang-gliding and paragliding, check out our article on the differences between these two aerial activities!
Mountain biking down the Semnoz
The undergrowth that surrounds the Savoyard region makes mountain biking a pleasure, thanks in particular to its mountainous terrain. Mountain biking in Annecy means you can choose from a wide range of schools offering bike hire as well as outings accompanied by instructors who know the valley inside out.
One of the most emblematic downhill runs around Annecy is the Semnoz: this long descent with a 1,300 metre vertical drop (negative) is accessible to all levels. It starts at 1700 metres and offers sublime panoramic views of Lake Annecy, the Aravis and Bauges mountain ranges, with Mont Blanc as a picture-postcard backdrop. The route then winds through the Semnoz forest, mostly in the shade of the undergrowth, before finishing in the lake for a swim. There are some lovely viewpoints along the way.
Classic or electric bike rides
If you're looking for a less strenuous, more leisurely ride, you can opt for a bike tour around Annecy. The destination also offers a good number of bike hire options for cycling around the lake or to iconic sites such as the Château d'Annecy, the Jardins de l'Europe or the Ile des Cygnes! The many cycle paths just goes to show how much cycling is THE means of transport in the region. And don't forget that you can book a bike hire + paddle or bike hire + pedalo package on the lake. Original, isn't it?
Hot-air balloon flight over Lake Annecy
If you want to discover the region in a completely original way, there's nothing like a hot-air balloon ride in Annecy! You heat up, the balloon goes up, you stop heating up, the balloon comes down. Of course, the mechanism is a little more complicated. As the balloon is not dirigible, the pilots use the differences in wind between the different altitudes to navigate. It's a subtle art, and the professional responsible for taking you up there will introduce you to it for the duration of the flight.
Hot-air balloon flights over Lake Annecy generally last an hour, and you can even choose the private option for extra privacy! Let yourself be swept away in this magical craft that is a dream for children (who have to be over 1.20 metres tall to climb aboard) and adults alike. The view is breathtaking and the experience gentle, punctuated by the rhythm of the flames.
A boat trip on Lake Annecy
Take advantage of a boat trip on Lake Annecy to relax in an exceptional setting! You don't need a licence to hire a boat, because these 100% electric, environmentally-friendly boats are the perfect option if you want to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet of the lake. For 1? to 2 hours, you can sunbathe or take a dip in the lake!
Do you want to enjoy a rental but spend a little less? Hiring a pedalo in Annecy is more than possible - it's highly recommended! A family activity par excellence, young and old alike will be delighted to admire the surrounding mountains and iconic monuments including the Château de Menthon-Saint-Bernard and Mont Veyrier!
Hiking in the Annecy region
In the heart of the splendid Alpine landscapes, hiking is an essential outdoor activity for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. There are, of course, many trails in Annecy, even if they all lead to the lake.
One of the region's iconic itineraries, the guided hike to the Semnoz offers an experience that combines magnificent panoramas with the discovery of the flora and fauna. With a little effort, you'll soon arrive in wild landscapes where you may even catch a glimpse of animals: ibex, chamois, marmots and many birds of prey. Under the guidance of experienced guides, they will take you (depending on the level of difficulty required) on trails they know like the back of their hand for a day or half-day of guaranteed change of scenery...
Stand Up Paddle on Lake Annecy
On the crystal-clear waters of the lake, one activity is growing in popularity, offering you a unique way to discover this jewel of the French Alps in the great outdoors: stand-up paddle on Lake Annecy! Whether it's for an hour or a whole day, you can take advantage of the tranquility of the lake to embark on a wonderful adventure, perfect in summer.
Armed with your board, paddle and lifejacket, you'll be able to immerse yourself in the surrounding nature, with breathtaking panoramic views. Whether you're a beginner or a keen paddler, there's something for everyone. Depending on the option you choose, you'll be able to challenge yourself as well as relax!
Snorkelling in Lake Annecy
You can marvel beneath the surface by trying out a 2-hour snorkelling discovery session in Lake Annecy! The region's crystal-clear waters are ideal for all kinds of underwater activities!
With very gentle water temperatures of around 23°C, you'll learn fundamental breathing skills. Thanks to your instructor, who will accompany you and offer practical exercises adapted to your level, you will discover and rapidly improve your freediving skills. It's an ideal activity if you're looking to go beyond your own limits, control your breathing and your emotions. To go underwater is to understand that, with determination and perseverance, the most audacious challenges can be overcome.
Flight in a microlight over the Annecy region
Flying in a microlight in Annecy offers a unique aerial experience, as these light, manoeuvrable aircraft take you over majestic peaks, lush green valleys and, of course, the lake! From Annecy airport, you'll be able to overlook the region for between 20 minutes and just over an hour.
You'll meet your pilot at Annecy airport for important flight instructions (explanation of weather conditions, flight mechanics, etc.). Then you'll board the microlight and follow the final safety instructions before setting off! The advantage of microlight flying? You're warm and sheltered from the wind! All you have to do is get out your camera to capture the moment...
Towards new adventures...
Here are some ideas for outdoor activities in Annecy to discover Lake Annecy and the surrounding area! And if you'd like more ideas, such as indoor activities, don't hesitate to take a look at the other things to do in Annecy.
If hang-gliding has caught your attention, you should know that we have a host of similar activities to give you a dopamine boost! You can find out more about these crazy experiences by reading our article on the new thrilling activities to do this summer!