Lake Annecy greenway

Discover a historical monument, the museum and its temporary exhibitions, displayed in the exceptional setting of the former residence of the Counts of Geneva and the Dukes of Genevois-Nemours.Listed as a Historical Monument in 1902, Annecy Castle became the residence of the Counts of Geneva in the 13th and 14th centuries. Over the following two centuries, successive modifications transformed the castle, giving it the unique appearance we can admire today.  The resulting structure is a combination of medieval defensive architecture and renaissance elegance, inspired by castles in Ile de France. Abandoned as a residence in the 17th century, the Annecy Castle was later used as military barracks until 1947. The Castle-Museum In 1953, the city of Annecy bought the castle from the Ministry of Defense. The museum's first exhibition was inaugurated three years later. Since then, the museum has presented various temporary exhibitions for visitors, as well as collections related to regional heritage, underwater archeology, medieval sculpture, landscape painting, contemporary art and animation films. Architecture In its current state, the castle is a good illustration of how castle architecture changed between the 13th and 16th centuries. The Tour de la Reine is the oldest part of the castle, dating back to the 13th century.  Built on elevated ground, it most likely replaced a primitive keep.  Measuring over 30 meters high and with walls up to 3.3 meters thick, the tower was used for defensive and military purposes.   The residential quarters of the castle are more recent.  Both the Logis Nemours and the Logis Neuf (new lodging house) can be dated to the 16th century and are typical examples of Renaissance architecture.  These later constructions clearly attest to the growing importance of elegance and comfort to be found in princely residences.  Large windows adorn the facades and allow for natural light to enter the rooms, some of which are decorated with wall paintings and equipped with latrines. 

On the shores of Lake Annecy, the garden of Europe is a popular place to stroll. It is also a historic site used since the Middle Ages for many uses. Religious property until the Revolution, it is now a privileged space.

Beauty of the lake and mountains evolving all the time! Lake Annecy's clear waters are surrounded by moutains which colours change with seasons or light: green in spring and summer, glowing colours in autumn, pristine white in winter. Simply amazing...It is possible to admire the landscape from summits, when paragliding or along the cycle path that runs from Annecy to Savoy. Moreover, thanks to numerous protective actions performed for over 40 years, local people and tourists enjoy a protected environment: lake Annecy is considered as one of the purest lakes in Europe. The clearness and pureness of its water offer the opportunity to practice many water activities: swimming, of course, but also sailing, windsurfing, canoeing, rowing, water skiing, scuba diving, fishing... Lake Annecy is a perfect place for sports, leisure and also to discover history and local heritage. Stroll around the colourful, paved streets of Annecy's Old town, discover castles and museums, meet local craftspeople... Lake Annecy is also famous for its markets (with local products, cheese and delicatessen) and restaurants (local or gastronomic cuisine, fish and seafood...).

Jardin public situé au bord du lac, sur 5 ha, corbeilles fleuries, rivière de plantes vivaces, collection de rosiers - volière remarquable.

Roul' ma Poule Annecy : Bicycle rental for all. Comfort bikes, VTC, Sport bikes, Fitness bikes, VAE, E-Bikes, VAE Family E-Cargo, Children's mountain bikes, Children's trailers, Children's seats... + 260 Bikes, Open 7 days a week non-stop.Free with bike hire: helmet, repair kit, lock, basket. Large selection in Annecy: over 250 top-quality bikes in mint condition! Quality equipment (FR/EUR) from various brands: Arcade, Moustache, Trek, Electra, etc. (Bikes designed and modified specially for hire). Located right in the town centre, on the banks of Lake Annecy (30 metres away) and at the start of the cycle path. The shop is situated between the Police Station and Annecy Town Hall. Car parks nearby. Team of sports enthusiasts and outdoor sports enthusiasts, cycle technicians and state-certified cycling instructors. Hire prices 2024: Adult bike from (8 €/ 1 hour), (13 €/ +1 to 2 hours), (18 €/ + 2 to 4 hours), (22 €/+ 4 hours or full day). Special rates for groups, seminars, town halls, works councils, associations, schools... (Please contact us). We look forward to seeing you!

Roul' ma Poule Annecy-le-Vieux : Bicycle rental: + 500 bikes. Comfort bikes, VTC, Sport bikes, Fitness bikes, VAE, E-Bikes comfort, VAE E-Road Bikes, VAE Family E-Cargo, Bikes/Remorques/Child seats... Open 7 days a week non-stop: from April to NovemberQuality bike hire; Wide choice: +250 bikes to hire. Free with hire: helmet, repair kit, lock, front or rear basket, etc. Quality equipment (FR/EUR): Arcade, Moustache Trek, Electra, Orbea... (Equipment specially designed and modified for rental). Possibility of booking via internet. The shop is located: on the lakeside, opposite Lake Annecy (20 metres) and at the start of the cycle path, right next to our wine shop: "la Java des Flacons". Free parking nearby. Roul' ma Poule is run by a team of sports enthusiasts and outdoor sports enthusiasts who are both cycle technicians and qualified cycling instructors, Hire prices 2024: Adult bikes from (8 €/ 1 hour), (13 €/+1 to 2 hours), (18 €/ +2 to 4 hours), (24 €/+4 hours or full day). Special rates for groups, seminars, town halls, works councils, associations, schools...(Please contact us! Thank you!)