The Grand Tour du Lac d'Annecy, also known as the Circuit du Lac, is a 40-kilometre multi-use path circumnavigating Lac d'Annecy in Haute-Savoie, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes — one of the clearest and most scenic lakes in Europe, set within a ring of limestone pre-Alps. The route begins at Plage d'Albigny on the north shore near Annecy town and follows a combination of dedicated cycling and walking paths, minor roads, and lakeside promenades along both the western and eastern shores.
The circuit is accessible directly from central Annecy and the railway station, which is served by trains from Lyon Part-Dieu (1 hour 50 minutes), Chambéry (35 minutes), and Geneva (1 hour). No permit is required. The route is well-signed throughout with consistent lake-circuit waymarks. Bicycle hire is available in Annecy from vendors including Roul'ma Poule at 4 Rue des Marquisats (74000 Annecy) from approximately €15 per day, making the circuit achievable in 3–4 hours rather than a full walking day.
The western shore from Annecy through Sévrier to Duingt follows a paved dedicated cycle and walking path along the waterfront with almost no road exposure, offering continuous lake views through poplar and willow groves. The eastern shore from Doussard through Talloires to Veyrier-du-Lac uses a mix of minor roads and lakeside paths through traditional Savoyard villages and beneath dramatic limestone cliffs. The terrain is essentially flat, with minor undulations on the eastern side and total elevation change under 150 metres for the full circuit.
Key landmarks include the 15th-century Château de Duingt on a small peninsula at the lake's narrowest point, the village of Talloires renowned for its fine dining, the Roc de Chère nature reserve above Talloires with panoramic views, and the medieval canals and Palais de l'Île of Annecy's old town at the circuit's start and finish. Supervised swimming areas are accessible at multiple lakeside beaches throughout the route, and restaurants and cafés are plentiful in every village.
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Annecy, Haute-Savoie
- Best season
- April–October
What to bring
Walking shoes or bicycle (rental: from €15 / approx USD 16 per day at Roul'ma Poule, 4 Rue des Marquisats, 74000 Annecy); water, sunscreen
Location
Plage d'Albigny, Route d'Albigny, 74000 Annecy
45.9003, 6.1456 View on map
Highlights
- Crystal-clear alpine lake water — Lac d'Annecy is among the purest lakes in Europe, protected since 1957
- Château de Duingt on its small rocky peninsula at the lake's narrowest point — a classic Savoyard landmark
- Dramatic limestone cliff scenery on the eastern shore between Talloires and Veyrier-du-Lac
- Annecy old town canals, Palais de l'Île, and Thiou canal gardens at the circuit's start and finish
- Free supervised swimming beaches accessible at multiple points along the lakeshore route
Tips for visiting
- Bicycle hire is strongly recommended for the full 40km circuit; walking the complete loop takes 8–10 hours — Roul'ma Poule at 4 Rue des Marquisats offers standard bikes from around €15 per day
- Begin anti-clockwise (south along the western shore first) so the scenic eastern cliff section is reached in the afternoon, when light falls favourably on the limestone faces
- Arrive at Plage d'Albigny before 9:00 AM in summer — parking fills by 10:00 AM on weekends and the promenade becomes very crowded by midday
- Carry a swimsuit — lake water is clean, monitored, and swimming is free at most public beaches along the route
- Tuesday and Friday mornings host Annecy's main market in the old town — timing the circuit start to coincide adds a local food and produce experience
When to visit
April to October offers the best conditions; June to August is ideal for combining the circuit with swimming. Early mornings before 9:00 AM avoid crowds on the popular western promenade; spring and autumn provide cooler temperatures and significantly fewer visitors.
Accessibility
The western shore cycle path from Annecy to Sévrier is paved, flat, and accessible to wheelchair users and stroller pushers for approximately 15 kilometres. The eastern shore involves sections of minor road and uneven lakeside paths that present challenges for wheelchair users. The full 40km circuit is not entirely accessible, but the western shore portion is an excellent option for visitors with mobility needs.
Frequently asked questions
Can visitors cycle or walk the Grand Tour du Lac d'Annecy?
The circuit is designed for both cyclists and walkers. Cyclists typically complete the full 40km loop in 3–4 hours; walkers should allow 8–10 hours. Dedicated cycle paths cover most of the western shore.
Is the circuit suitable for families with young children?
Yes. The route is essentially flat, well-signed, and largely car-free along the western shore. Young children are best accommodated on bikes rather than walking the full distance; numerous swimming beaches provide ideal rest stops.
Where can bicycles be hired in Annecy?
Multiple hire shops operate in central Annecy. Roul'ma Poule at 4 Rue des Marquisats (74000 Annecy) offers standard bikes from approximately €15 per day; electric bike hire is also available from several operators on the waterfront.
Is it safe to swim in Lac d'Annecy?
Yes. The lake has been protected since 1957 and is regularly monitored for water quality. Most lakeshore towns maintain supervised public beaches during summer; entry to the public beaches is free.