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Annecy, a charming lakeside city between Lyon and Geneva, offers the perfect blend of tranquility and energy. With its stunning mountain backdrop, quaint shops, and pristine lake, Annecy in France is an ideal destination for culture enthusiasts and adventure lovers. Discover charming old squares, and palaces, and enjoy activities like canyoning and hiking in the surrounding area. Often considered one of France's most beautiful towns, it is off the beaten path but well worth the visit. Known as the 'Venice of the Alps', it offers a perfect blend of urban charm and natural splendour. Conveniently located just a short distance from the Swiss border, Annecy is a must-visit.
The beautiful Annecy Lake, located in the picturesque region of France, is a popular destination for visitors worldwide. This stunning body of water is fed by pure mountain springs and is known for its exceptional cleanliness, making it one of the purest lakes in Europe. There are countless opportunities to explore Lac d’Annecy, from participating in various water activities to invigorating treks or scenic bike rides along the surrounding trails. Don't forget to visit the enchanting Jardins de l'Europe (Gardens of Europe), a sprawling park next to the city hall and the serene lakefront. This park is a must-see in Annecy, boasting a magnificent garden adorned with vibrant tulips and majestic pine trees that create an atmosphere of tranquil beauty.
Annecy is often hailed as the Venice of the Alps due to its extensive network of waterways. The old town, Vieille Ville, boasts more waterways than roads and is framed by charming buildings. The pretty town in the Haute Savoie region in southeastern France is celebrated for its Old Town, which resembles illustrations from a fairy tale, featuring pastel-painted houses lining the canal banks and meandering cobblestone alleys.
The Pont des Amours, also known as Lover's Bridge, is a pedestrian iron footbridge offering a stunning Lake Annecy view. It is one of the two entrances to the town from the lake and the Thiou. According to legend, the bridge has a magical power - couples who share a kiss in the middle are destined to be united for life. As a result, the bridge has become a must-visit for couples in love in the region and for visitors.
This stunning canyon located just 6 miles from Annecy features a footbridge fixed 25m above the river, and is a must-see place. The 4.5-mile out-and-back trail is moderately challenging, taking 2 hours and 6 minutes to complete. The Fier Gorges has been listed since 1943 and is one of the most beautiful natural sites in the French Alps. The formation of Lake Annecy resulted from the melting of surrounding glaciers. Over 20,000 to 30,000 years ago, the water created the fault it is today by carving its way through the rock.
Situated on the Thiou Canal, the 12th-century Palais de l'Île has played diverse roles over the centuries. This iconic building, also known as the "house in the shape of a ship", is a must-see in Annecy, capturing the hearts of many photographers. From being a prison, residence, and courthouse, it now stands as a museum celebrating Annecy's rich heritage. Make sure to visit this unique monument during the day and night to witness the breathtaking view enhanced by captivating illuminations.
The Notre-Dame-de-Liesse Church, also known as Église Notre-Dame-de-Liesse, is one of the many beautiful churches in Annecy's charming old town. The church's stained glass windows depict its story in the Old Town. The largest bell in the church weighs 5 tons and is called “La Salésienne”. The church hosts temporary exhibitions and regularly offers guided tours. One such exhibition is the “Pietà” exhibition, which is dedicated to exploring the different representations of the Madonna in the city of Annecy.
