Lake Annecy, Annecy

4.8

#1 of 102 in Things to do in Annecy

Must see · Water Body · Nature / Park

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Lake Annecy bears the nickname of "Europe's Cleanest Lake,” because of strict environmental regulations that have been in place since the 1960s. Consequently, it is also a hotspot for water sports and swimming. You’ll understand why when you see its delicate blue waters up close, clear to the bottom, and as untouched as the day it was discovered. The effect of the lake's beauty is immortalized in Paul Cezanne's painting "Le Lac Bleu," which took its inspiration from it in 1896.

The lake formed 18,000 years ago, when alpine glaciers melted. Fed by multiple rivers and an underground water source, it is a basin for the cleanest of water. Consider a refreshing dip at one of the beaches and enjoy the day with a picnic, instead of spending bundles at local cafes. Arrange to visit Lake Annecy and other attractions in Annecy using our Annecy vacation maker site.

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Tours to Lake Annecy

FROM $201 BOOK WITH VIATOR Private 2-hour Walking Tour of Annecy with official tour guide Private 2-hour Walking Tour of Annecy with official tour guide

4.7

Duration: 2 hours

Tours from $201 ›

Lake Annecy reviews

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TripAdvisor traveler rating

6,914 reviews

Google

4.8

By Dutch-Mikey

Apart from the old town, the lake is the center of all attractions. It’s very scenic with plenty of things to do and see all year round. There are many restaurants, pubs, water activities and a...

Apart from the old town, the lake is the center of all attractions. It’s very scenic with plenty of things to do and see all year round. There are many restaurants, pubs, water activities and a... more »
By debsi

We were there in February in the freezing cold but the lake was stunning and really impressive. People were out and about and the view are spectacular. Don’t miss this if you are en route in the area.

We were there in February in the freezing cold but the lake was stunning and really impressive. People were out and about and the view are spectacular. Don’t miss this if you are en route in the area. more »

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Google

By L M

Beautiful lake with a stunning vista of the snow capped alps in the background. The water is clear and blue. A great place to take a leisurely stroll, but also seems a popular area for running or cycling around.

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By Babajide Esho

My visit to the Lake was so amazing. Annecy is a beautiful and peaceful city. The Lake had amazing views and it was simply picturesque. The water was very clear and the rumours about the lake annecy having the cleanest water in Europe seemed true. As a tourist to Annecy you definitely have to visit the Lake. There are alot of beautiful places to take nice pictures and after having a fun time at the lake there are a lot of restaurants and bars around you have a meal or drink at very affordable prices. I will definitely be visiting again in the future as I love it so much my only challenge with the city is that it's very small so you there are no trains or trams to go around and I dont understand how the buses worked.

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