Water Activities To Do at Lake Annecy

Nestled in the French Alps, Lake Annecy is a gem surrounded by stunning beaches, beautiful mountain peaks, and a vibrant town. Often referred to as the cleanest lake in Europe, Lake Annecy offers a plethora of water activities to suit every vibe!

Annecy is a picturesque town in southeastern France, often nicknamed the 'Pearl of the French Alps'. The historic old town, home to charming canals, cobblestone streets, and well-preserved buildings, offers a perfect blend of history and charm. Annecy is renowned for its stunning lake, with crystal-clear waters and surrounding natural beauty. During the summer months, the temperatures in Annecy create excellent conditions for exciting water adventures in Lake Annecy! In this blog article, you'll discover the best water activities to do at Lake Annecy.

Stand up paddling in Annecy
Stand Up Annecy

Stand up Paddling

Stand up paddling on Lake Annecy has become very popular, due to its calm and clear waters. SUP is a relatively easy water sport that involves standing or kneeling on a sturdy board and using a paddle to cruise along the waters. This is an excellent option for families and children, allowing you to explore the lake in a unique way. As you paddle, you'll be treated to the incredible panoramic views around Annecy. Book a stand up paddle rental on Lake Annecy to explore the lake at your own pace. The rental is available year-round, from sunrise to sunset!

Canyoning at Lake Annecy
Terreo Canyoning

Canyoning

Canyoning is an exciting adventure sport that combines hiking, climbing, jumping, and swimming to navigate through canyons. The diverse landscapes around Lake Annecy provide an ideal setting for this thrilling activity, offering both beginners and experienced adventurers a chance to explore stunning natural gorges and waterfalls. One of the most popular canyons near Annecy is the Angon Canyon, featuring spectacular waterfalls, natural slides, and deep pools. You can take part in canyoning at Angon Canyon near Lake Annecy whether you are a complete beginner or looking for a more sporty experience. You'll abseil, jump, swim and climb to descend the canyon. Children from 8 years old can also join!

Wakeboarding in Annecy
Le Spot

Wakeboarding

Wakeboarding on Lake Annecy is an exhilarating activity perfect for adrenaline junkies! This thrilling sport involves standing on a board, similar to a snowboard, which is towed behind a motorboat. The rider holds onto a rope and as the boat speeds up, they use the waves to perform tricks and manoeuvers. You can discover wakeboarding on Lake Annecy as a beginner, the instructor will teach you all of the basics. The calm waters of the lake provide the perfect surface for gliding and jumping. The breathtaking mountain scenery around Lake Annecy also adds to the thrill of this exciting water sport!

Wingfoiling on Lake Annecy
Stand Up Annecy

Wingfoiling

Wingfoiling is another adventurous water sport to try while visiting Lake Annecy! Combining elements of windsurfing, kitesurfing, and foiling, the rider stands on a hydrofoil board while holding a handheld wing that harnesses the wind. The wing lifts the board off the water and allows the rider to glide smoothly. If you are a beginner, you can join a wingfoil lesson on Lake Annecy and learn about this thrilling sport from a professional. The consistent winds and calm waters of the lake create optimal conditions to try this water sport.

Snorkelling on Lake Annecy
Planète Apnée

Snorkelling

As the cleanest lake in Europe with brilliant turquoise waters, Lake Annecy is one of the best places for snorkelling. Thanks to its excellent underwater visibility, you can discover unique flora and fauna and submerged underwater sites. On this guided snorkelling tour in Lake Annecy, you'll embark on a boat trip to the best snorkelling spots on the lake. Under the guide's instruction, you'll swim beneath the surface of Lake Annecy and explore the fascinating underwater world. This activity is perfect for families and children!

Boat Tour on Lake Annecy
Le Deck Veyrier

Boat Tour

One of the most peaceful and simplest ways to explore Lake Annecy is on a scenic boat tour. Embark on a boat trip around the lake, navigating at a leisurely pace while enjoying the stunning alpine scenery. You can rent an electric boat on Lake Annecy without a license, sailing past the postcard landscapes and stopping for swimming breaks in the middle of the lake. With your family, friends or partner, you can spend unforgettable moments on the crystal-clear waters of Lake Annecy!

Swimming on Lake Annecy
Planète Apnée

Swimming

Since Lake Annecy is renowned for its clean waters, it is the perfect spot for swimming. You can take a refreshing dip in the pristine waters and cool off from your day exploring Annecy. The lake features several well-maintained beaches, such as Plage d’Albigny and Plage des Marquisats, equipped with lifeguarded areas, restaurants, beach beds, toilets and changing rooms. If you want a more secluded experience away from the crowds, stroll through the beautiful Roc de Chere and find your own private rock to swim from.

Lake Annecy is a paradise for water enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of activities that cater to all interests and skill levels. Whether you're looking to swim and snorkel in the clear waters, try an exhilarating water sport, or simply relax and take in the breathtaking views, Lake Annecy has something for everyone. Plan a water activity into your trip to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and outdoor adventures that this phenomenal alpine lake has to offer, you won't be disappointed!

Check out our top outdoor activities to do in Annecy for more inspiration on activities to try in Annecy and its surroundings!