Annecy & Bauges

Hiking around Lake Annecy and in the Bauges

The Annecy & Bauges region concentrates some of the most popular hikes in Haute-Savoie. The presence of Lake Annecy, ranked among the most beautiful lakes in Europe, gives every outing a spectacular backdrop. The peaks surrounding it are not the highest in the department, but their privileged location — between lake and valley — makes them outstanding viewpoints that can be climbed in a day from Annecy, Faverges or Talloires.

The iconic peaks around the lake

The Tournette (2,351 m) is without doubt the star summit of the region. Dominating the eastern shore of the lake, it offers a unique plunging view and a route that is both sporty and accessible from the Chalet de l'Aulp. On the opposite shore, the Semnoz (1,704 m) is gentler, reachable by car to the summit or as a hike from Sevrier. A family must-do. To the north, Mont Veyrier and Mont Baron are short walks from Annecy, perfect for half a day. To the west, La Mandallaz and the Roc de Viuz offer less crowded trails with superb views.

The Parmelan and its lapiaz

The Parmelan (1,832 m), north-east of Annecy, is a limestone plateau famous for its lapiaz — an expanse of rock carved by erosion that looks like a mineral labyrinth. Crossing the plateau is a unique experience in France. Several routes allow access from Villaz or the Glières plateau. In summer, the Blonay refuge welcomes hikers.

The Bauges massif, a regional nature park

At the southern edge of Haute-Savoie, the Bauges massif is a regional nature park home to rich biodiversity. It offers wilder, less frequented hikes: the Arcalod (2,217 m) highest point, the Pointe de Chaurionde, the Trélod, the peaks of Sambuy. It is a region of character, with preserved pastures where Tome des Bauges AOP and goat cheeses are produced. The ideal season runs from late April to November on lower summits, and June to October on peaks above 2,000 metres.