Why Annecy? Your Base for Adventure & Productivity
Annecy consistently ranks as one of the best places to live in France, and for good reason. It provides a safe, clean, and inspiring environment perfect for deep work and profound relaxation. Here’s a breakdown of how to make the most of your time in this Alpine paradise.
1. Your Daily Walk: The Old Town (Vieille Ville) & Canals
Start your days by stepping away from the screen and into a fairytale. The cobblestone streets of Annecy’s Old Town are your new commute.
The Canals: The shallow, crystal-clear canals that crisscross the town are lined with colourful buildings and flower-draped bridges. They provide a tranquil backdrop for a morning coffee or an evening stroll, with the Alps always visible in the distance.
Palais de l’Isle: This iconic 12th-century palace-turned-prison sits on an island in the Thiou Canal. Now a museum (€4 entry), it's a fascinating piece of history and the town's most famous landmark.
Local Treats: Fuel your workday with exceptional ice cream. Maison Perriere and Le glacier des Alpes are two top-tier spots offering a huge variety of flavours.
2. The Local Experience: Farmer’s Markets
Integrate into the local rhythm by visiting the bustling farmer's markets. It's the best way to source fresh food and practice your French.
Main Market: Every Tuesday, Friday, and Sunday (7 AM - 1 PM), the Old Town transforms into a vibrant market. Stock up on local Reblochon cheese, cured meats, fresh produce, and nougat.
The Saturday Market: For a more local, less-touristy vibe, head to the market starting at Gallerie Lafayette on Saturdays.
3. Achieve Peak Work-Life Balance: Lakeside Activities
Lake Annecy isn't just for looking at—it's your playground. Known as one of Europe's cleanest and freshest lakes, it's the heart of the region's outdoor lifestyle.
Biking the Greenway: A 35 km paved greenway circles the lake, offering stunning, flat riding through charming villages like Sévrier and Saint-Jorioz. Rent a standard or electric bike in town and make a day of it.
Rent a Boat: Be your own captain for an afternoon. Numerous vendors rent self-operated motorboats (around €65) and pedal boats (from €25). It's the perfect way to find a quiet cove for a swim.
Picnic in the Jardins de l’Europe: This lakeside park is the local's choice for relaxing. Grab cheese and bread from the market for an idyllic picnic. Look out for the charming old wooden carousel from 1871.
Cross the Lover’s Bridge (Pont des Amours): This iconic bridge offers spectacular views of the lake on one side and the tree-lined canal on the other.
4. Adventure on Your Doorstep: Get Your Adrenaline Fix
When you need a break from business strategy, the mountains are calling.
Paragliding: Annecy is Europe’s most famous paragliding site. Launching from Col de Forclaz gives you a bird's-eye view of the lake and mountains—an unforgettable experience. It's open to all, with tandem flights available for kids as young as three.
Treetop Adventure Parks: Test your agility at Acro’aventures Talloires, a treetop course with options for all skill levels (minimum height 100cm). For younger nomads in the family, Cric'k Parc is an eco-park designed for kids with trampolines and zip lines.
Hiking: For a quick and rewarding hike with fewer crowds, head across the lake to Belvédère du Roc de Chère. For more serious treks, you're a short drive from world-class alpine trails.
5. Haute Savoie Cuisine: A Taste of the Alps
French Alpine cuisine is hearty, cheesy, and deeply satisfying. Indulge in local specialties that are perfect after a day of hiking or biking.
Must-Try Dishes: Don't leave without trying Raclette, Tartiflette (a potato, reblochon cheese, and bacon bake), and cheese Fondue.
Top Restaurants: For an authentic experience, book a table at Le Freti or L’Etage. Be sure to book in advance as they are extremely popular.
Cheese Shops: While Pierre Gay is a famous fromagerie, the best deals and discoveries are often found directly at the market stalls.
6. Strategic Location for Further Exploration
Annecy's position near the Swiss and Italian borders makes it a fantastic base for weekend road trips. The legendary mountaineering town of Chamonix is an easy day trip, opening up the entire Mont Blanc massif for exploration.
