Lake Annecy is a real Alpine jewel and a must for cycling enthusiasts. Its circumference of around 40km and cycle paths laid out around its shores appeal to both sporting enthusiasts looking to test their performance and families out for a ride. And with its turquoise waters, majestic mountains and picturesque villages, this route offers one of the finest cycling experiences in France.
We bring you here the advice of Sรฉbastien Jarrot, a keen cyclist and connoisseur of the lakeโs roads, who shares with us his best routes, tips and recommendations for a successful outing.
A scenic and safe route
Which way should you go around the lake?
- Anti-clockwise (classic): Annecy โ Sevrier โ Saint-Jorioz โ Duingt โ Talloires โ Menthon-Saint-Bernard โ Annecy-le-Vieux. A smooth, gradual tour, with the climb to Talloires at the end of the route.
- Clockwise (sporting): Annecy โ Menthon-Saint-Bernard โ Talloires โ Duingt โ Saint-Jorioz โ Sevrier โ Annecy. Perfect for hardened cyclists, with the climb up to Menthon at the start.
The route is 95% cycle track, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. You can find an interactive map of the cycle route here.
Where to stay for a great cycling trip?
There is no better place to unwind after a strenuous day than a chalet with a view of the lake or mountains. Here, we offer a selection of high-end chalets around the lake for a comfortable and authentic stay.
VILLA TROIS LAURIERS
With a bike maintenance kit and secure storage room, this modern villa is an ideal base for cyclists. Designed to accommodate the whole family, it also features amenities such as a swimming pool suitable for both children and adults.
CHALET LOMATIKA
Located on the shores of the lake, this chalet is the perfect place to enjoy the water activities on Lake Annecy.
LE SWANDOORS
If youโre dreaming of an authentic stay in the medieval heart of Annecy, this apartment in the old townโs historic ramparts will delight you.
How should you prepare for your tour of the lake?
Hydration and nutrition
A tour of the lake takes between 1.5 and 2.5 hours, depending on your level and the number of breaks you take.
You should bring 1 to 1.5 litre of water per person; there are water points in Talloires and Saint-Jorioz for refueling.
To ensure you stay in good shape throughout your ride, it might also be useful to bring a snack, such as an energy bar or a piece of fruit. There are several food stops along the route; have a look at our recommendations at the bottom of this article.
Essential equipment
- A cycle helmet is mandatory, and a high-visibility vest is strongly recommended in the late afternoon.
- Sunglasses and UPF 50 sunscreen are essential, as the sun is strong by the water.
- A windproof jacket for cool mornings or descents from mountain passes.
- An appropriate gear ratio: a rear cassette with 28 to 34 teeth will make the climb to Talloires easier.
What sort of bike should I use?
- A road bike or gravel bike for speed and performance enthusiasts.
- Electric bikes for an easier ride with the family.
Where can I hire a bike?
- Roulemapoule (Annecy) โ Large choice of bikes and plenty of advice.
- Cyclable Annecy โ Perfect for electric bikes
- Alpes Aventure (Talloires) โ For top of the range and gravel bikes
When is the best time to beat the crowds?
The lake attracts up to 7,000 cyclists per day in the summer, and around 900,000 each year. So itโs a good idea to choose your time to make your tour as enjoyable as possible.
Spring and autumn are the best seasons for cycling around the lake, due to milder temperatures and the calm before the summer crowds.
If you wish to cycle the route in the summer, the ideal time slots are early in the morning, between 8am and 10am, or later in the day after 4pm, when the light is softer and temperatures are more pleasant.
Safety rules and practical advice
- Always ride on the right and signal your intentions.
- Never stop in the middle of the path; wait until you can move to the side.
- The bike path is a shared space. Be mindful of other users: cyclists, roller skiers, and families out for a stroll.
Variations for more experienced cyclists
Col de la Forclaz โ the best view of the lake
If you want to see one of the most beautiful views of the lake, you will first have to tackle a 10km climb with an average gradient of 7.5%, including sections with slopes exceeding 11%. The final stretch is the most challenging, but the effort will be more than rewarded with the breathtaking view.
Col de Bluffy โ For lovers of castles
Starting at Veyrier-du-Lac, this is one of the easiest mountain passes in the Alps. You will take a gentle 3.5km slope with an average gradient of 4%. When you get to the pass, you can admire the beautiful Chรขteau de Menthon or stop for a traditional cheese dish at the Ferme de la Charbonniรจre.
Good to know: The Chรขteau de Menthon-Saint-Bernard is said to have inspired Walt Disneyโs design for the castle for Sleeping Beauty.
Montรฉe du Semnoz โ The ultimate challenge
The climb to the pass starts at the edge of the lake. You will quickly leave the town of Annecy behind and enter a beautiful series of switchbacks through the forests of Semnoz.
Donโt be fooled by this peaceful setting: with its 17km ascent, an average gradient of 7% and sections exceeding 10%, the Semnoz pass is a real challenge. If you choose to tackle it in the late afternoon, your effort will be rewarded with one of the most stunning sunsets over the lake.
Where to stop en route?
For a swimming stop:
- Plage dโAngon (Talloires) โ A peaceful, green spot, perfect for cooling off in the lake.
- Plage de Saint-Jorioz โWith its clear waters, view of Tournette and the Dents de Lanfon and its supervised beach (fee charged in summer), itโs the perfect swimming stop for families.
Good to know: Thanks to pollution controls introduced in the 1960s, Lake Annecy is now recognised as one of the cleanest lakes in Europe.
For a tasty break:
- Le Fournil de mon pรจre in Menthon-Saint-Bernard โ This bakery, owned by the same family since 1944, is a real institution around the lake. An unexpected craving will be the perfect excuse to try their delicious pastries.
- Le Bon Wagon in Duingt โ A must-stop for cyclists in Annecy. Thereโs plenty of room to park your bike, allowing you to enjoy a snack on the terrace. Settle in to enjoy a coffee, homemade pastry, or share a gourmet platter in a friendly atmosphere.
- LโOasis in Sevrier โ The perfect spot for an evening apรฉritif. Enjoy music by the lake where you can sip a cocktail or enjoy a burger or pizza.
Enjoy and capture the memories of your outing!
- โGolden hourโ in Talloires: Enjoy the magical light at the end of the day.
- Pontons dโAnnecy-le-Vieux: Perfect for Instagram-worthy photos.
- Tunnel de Duingt: For unique photos in the old railway tunnel between the lake and the mountains.
Ready for your cycle tour of Lake Annecy?
Whether youโre looking for a challenge or a relaxing ride, this tour offers a unique experience blending sport, nature, and gastronomy. All you need to do is to hop on your bike and set off to explore the breathtaking landscapes of Lake Annecy.
Take a look at our other articles on Annecy to discover more activities to try in the region, or follow us on social media @ovonetwork for more mountain holiday inspiration.
Are you looking for accommodation in Annecy?
Our range of partner properties around Lake Annecy guarantees you a pleasant stay in the heart of the Alpsโฆ
