Fancy a romantic break for two in the heart of a destination that is as dynamic as it is romantic? What about Annecy?
Known as the Venice of the Alps because of its canals and bridges, as well as its cobbled streets and unusual architecture, Annecy is certainly one of the most romantic destinations in France. And with Michelin-starred restaurants, mountain views, the lake and its beaches, plus a wealth of activities, it’s a perfect destination for a couple’s getaway.
Let us show you around this beautiful place, and suggest eight activities you might like to try.
1. A romantic stroll around the Old Town
Annecy’s Old Town exudes romance and charm, and together you can explore this medieval centre nestled between the lake and the mountains.
Discover its rich heritage as you wander through its cobbled streets, and contemplate its colourful architecture and its historical buildings. You’ll love:
- The Palais de l’île, the town’s most recognised monument, which was built on a natural rocky island in the Thiou river.
- The Thiou canals, which bring freshness and life to the town. They shape the landscape and give an artistic touch to the romantic old town.
Le Pont des Amours: Legend has it that lovers who kiss in the middle of the bridge will be united for eternity. So stop for a while and admire the view of the lake and the mountains on one side and the canal and boats on the other.
2. Enjoy a romantic meal at an award-winning restaurant
Here’s a delicious idea for an activity to do as a couple in Annecy – feed your senses at one of the town’s many fine-dining restaurants.
The Michelin Guide has awarded starts to several of the town’s chefs, who showcase the area’s local produce. This is gastronomy at its best!
Try one of these establishments for an unforgettable dinner for two:
- Le Clos des Sens ***: using local produce, the chef offers a menu based on fish from the Savoyard lakes (Lakes Geneva, Annecy and Bourget) and vegetables from the market gardeners of the Albanais.
- L’Auberge du Père Bise – Restaurant Jean Sulpice **: the flavours of the lake, the mountains and local growers are championed by this chef with a taste for excellence.
- La Maison Bleue **: there’s an emphasis on local fish and vegetables in the magnificent created by Yoann Conte.
- L’Esquisse *: Discover the chef’s “surprise menu” for an unexpected taste experience!
- L’Auberge de Montmin * the chef and their team invite you to taste a creative, delicate and rich cuisine of unexpected flavours.
- Restaurant Vincent Favre-Félix *: expect a bold menu that combines creativity and inspiration!
- La Rotonde des Trésoms *: discover a cuisine inspired by the chef’s two culinary identities – the southwest and Haute Savoie.
3. A magical visit to the Fête du Lac
Inspired by the great Venetian festival thrown to mark the arrival of Napoleon III in 1860, the Fête du Lac now incorporates the latest and best pyrotechnics. Start your evening with a stroll in the town centre and enjoy concerts in the Jardins de l’Europe.
The lake is then lit up by a spectacular firework show – enjoy the harmony of lights and music, animations and fountains. The festival happens every August, so make sure you book your tickets well in advance!
Discover our partner properties in Annecy
4. Fly over the lake in a hot air balloon
Take off in a hot air balloon and float about Annecy and the lake as you enjoy this wonderful landscape. Let the wind carry you as you take in this breathtaking panorama – it’s an exhilarating experience.
Here are some companies you can contact:
5. Enjoy a private catamaran cruise
A trip across the lake on The Boat is the perfect day out for a couple.
Choose the trip that most appeals to you – a day cruise, a sunset cruise, a discovery cruise or perhaps even a trip tailored to your wishes.
You’ll be accompanied by an experienced skipper on the catamaran which, at 11m long and 6m wide, is perfectly stable.
Comfortable bench seating allows you to sit back and enjoy the views, or you could relax on the “trampoline” at the front of the boat with an aperitif or picnic.
This experience is available from April until the end of October.
6. Paddleboarding side by side
Paddleboarding is a popular activity on Lake Annecy – the idea is to stand on a board up to 3m long, knees bent, and paddle yourself across the water as you concentrate on keeping your balance.
It’s a great way to discover nature, the mountains bordering the lake and the trees reflected in the water. It’s a good idea to bring a waterproof camera to record your day and make sure to wear plenty of sun cream as you’ll be fairly exposed to the sun.
This activity costs about 11€ for an hour and 16€ for two hours. You can book at:
7. Enjoy a Segway ride through the town
Take a Segway tour to discover the streets and sights of Annecy in a whole new way. Your guide will stop along the way to tell you about the history of this medieval town and to let you enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Tours last 90 minutes and will take you through the Old Town, followed by a trip to the lakeside, Jardins de l’Europe and the Pâquier or perhaps up to the castle and the Basilique de la Visitation.
8. Relax with a couples’ massage
Treat yourselves to a relaxing break at a spa such as Les Tresoms. Whether you’d prefer an energising treatment or a more relaxing and harmonising massage, you’ll be sure to find something to suit both your needs.
Afterwards, you can spend some time in the balneotherapy pool in the wellness area and end the day in the sauna or steam room, so you can leave feeling relaxed and refreshed.
The Institut des Lys offers a couple’s massage – there’s a choice of treatments which you can enjoy together. The anti-stress back massage will relax your muscles, while the Balinese massage is gentle, toning and energising.
Or perhaps try the Californian massage for the ultimate in pampering. Whatever you choose, it’s a great way to unwind together.
Now you can see why Annecy is considered a city of romance. With so many romantic activities, you’ll be sure to find plenty to fill your itinerary.
If you have fallen in love with Annecy and would like to know more, here are some more articles for you:
- Top 10 watersports to try on Lake Annecy
- Christmas in Annecy
- How many days should you stay in Annecy for?
Finally, don’t forget to book your visit to this incredible place as soon as possible, and enjoy a well-deserved break with your partner…
