• April: Spring arrives in Annecy with mild temperatures ranging from 6°C to 15°C (43°F to 59°F). The snow begins to melt in the lower altitudes, opening up trails for hiking and mountain biking. However, higher-altitude routes may still be snow-covered or muddy. Occasional rain showers are common, so waterproof gear is essential. The fresh blooms and greenery make this a picturesque time to explore.

  May: Warmer weather, with temperatures climbing to 10°C–20°C (50°F–68°F), makes May a fantastic time for outdoor activities. Most trails, including mid-altitude routes, are now accessible. The days are longer, and the likelihood of rain decreases slightly. It’s an ideal month for moderate hikes and scenic mountain bike rides among vibrant spring landscapes.

  June: Summer begins to take hold, with temperatures ranging from 14°C to 25°C (57°F to 77°F). Almost all trails are open, including those at higher altitudes. The weather is generally stable, offering excellent conditions for hiking and mountain biking. This is the start of the busy season, so popular trails around Lake Annecy may see more visitors.

  July: Warm and sunny, July sees temperatures between 17°C and 28°C (63°F and 82°F). The weather is perfect for all outdoor activities, though the heat can be intense on exposed trails. Early mornings or late afternoons are best for strenuous activities. Popular trails can become crowded, so exploring lesser-known paths is recommended.

  August: Similar to July, August offers warm and dry conditions, with temperatures ranging from 17°C to 28°C (63°F to 82°F). This is peak tourist season, so trails are bustling, especially near the lake. High-altitude routes provide cooler temperatures and stunning vistas, making them popular for both hiking and mountain biking.

  September: Early autumn brings cooler, pleasant temperatures of 12°C to 22°C (54°F to 72°F). The summer crowds subside, and the trails become quieter, offering a more serene outdoor experience. The foliage begins to change, adding a touch of golden beauty to hikes and bike rides. The weather is stable, making it an excellent month for outdoor sports.

  October: Autumn is in full swing, with temperatures dropping to 8°C–16°C (46°F–61°F). While lower-altitude trails remain accessible, some higher routes may close due to early snowfall or wetter conditions. The crisp air and vibrant fall colors make for breathtaking scenery. Layers are essential as temperatures can vary significantly throughout the day.

November:

Temperatures begin to drop, ranging from 2°C to 10°C (36°F to 50°F), signaling the start of winter. Lower-altitude trails are still accessible, but higher routes may see the first snowfall. This transitional month is ideal for quieter hikes and exploring Annecy’s charming old town. Waterproof and warm layers are essential as rain and chilly winds are common. Ski resorts in the Haute-Savoie region prepare to open, with some higher-altitude locations already welcoming early-season skiers.

December:

Winter fully arrives, with temperatures averaging between -1°C and 5°C (30°F to 41°F). The surrounding ski resorts buzz with activity, offering excellent conditions for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. Lower trails are typically snow-covered, perfect for serene winter walks. The festive atmosphere in Annecy is unmissable, with Christmas markets, sparkling lights, and seasonal delicacies creating a magical vibe. Pack warm layers, insulated boots, and snow-ready gear for outdoor adventures.

January:

The coldest month of the year sees temperatures drop to -3°C to 4°C (27°F to 39°F). This is prime time for winter sports, with excellent snow conditions in the Alps. Activities like cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice skating are popular. Annecy’s iconic lake reflects the surrounding snowy peaks, offering breathtaking winter vistas. The days are short, so planning activities around daylight hours is essential. Warm, windproof clothing is a must.

February:

Temperatures slightly rise, ranging from -2°C to 6°C (28°F to 43°F), but the snow remains abundant in the mountains. This is one of the best months for skiing, with longer days and stable weather conditions. Winter enthusiasts can also enjoy sledding, alpine tours, and cozy chalet stays. The quieter trails provide opportunities for snowshoeing in serene, snowy landscapes. Families flock to the Alps for the school holidays, so booking accommodations in advance is recommended.

March:

As winter starts to fade, temperatures climb to 1°C–10°C (34°F–50°F). Lower-altitude snow begins to melt, while higher-altitude resorts maintain excellent skiing conditions. This transitional month is perfect for those who want to enjoy both winter sports and the first signs of spring. Snowshoeing and skiing are still in full swing, but milder weather makes exploring the town of Annecy more comfortable. Layers are essential as temperatures vary greatly between elevations.

1) Nearest Airport: The nearest airport to Annecy is Geneva Airport (Aéroport de Genève), located in Switzerland, approximately 45 kilometers (28 miles) away. By car, the journey takes around 40–45 minutes, depending on traffic. Alternatively, shuttle buses and private transfers are available and take roughly 1 hour to reach Annecy’s town center. Geneva Airport is well-connected with international flights and offers a convenient entry point for visitors to Annecy.

2) How to Move Around: Annecy’s compact size makes it easy to explore on foot or by bicycle, especially in the town center and around the lake. For longer distances or accessing mountain trails, public transportation such as buses operated by the Sibra network is efficient and affordable. Renting a car is recommended for exploring surrounding alpine areas and remote trails. Additionally, Annecy has a robust cycling culture, with bike rental options and dedicated paths, particularly around Lake Annecy. Electric bikes are also widely available, making it easier to tackle hilly terrain.

• La Tournette

  • A challenging hike to Annecy's highest peak with breathtaking panoramic views of the lake and surrounding Alps.

  • Distance: ~14 km (8.7 miles)

  • Elevation gain: ~1,200 m (3,937 ft)

• Mont Veyrier and Mont Baron Loop

  • A moderate loop offering stunning views of Lake Annecy and the surrounding peaks.

  • Distance: ~10 km (6.2 miles)

  • Elevation gain: ~800 m (2,625 ft)

• Cascade d’Angon

  • An easy-to-moderate hike leading to a beautiful waterfall with spectacular views.

  • Distance: ~4 km (2.5 miles)

  • Elevation gain: ~250 m (820 ft)

• Semnoz Plateau Trail

  • A high-altitude route with rolling terrain and exceptional views of Mont Blanc.

  • Distance: ~12 km (7.5 miles)

  • Elevation gain: ~500 m (1,640 ft)

• Roc de Chère Reserve

  • A scenic trail through a protected forest area with technical paths and lake views.

  • Distance: ~8 km (5 miles)

  • Elevation gain: ~150 m (492 ft)

• Annecy Lake Loop (Partial)

  • A mix of trails and paths skirting the lake, perfect for medium-distance runs.

  • Distance: Customizable, ~10–20 km

• Semnoz Mountain Descent

  • A thrilling downhill ride from the Semnoz summit to the lakeshore.

  • Distance: ~20 km (12.4 miles)

  • Elevation loss: ~1,200 m (3,937 ft)

• Forclaz and Talloires Loop

  • A varied route with technical sections and stunning lake views.

  • Distance: ~25 km (15.5 miles)

  • Elevation gain: ~700 m (2,297 ft)

• Bauges Regional Park Trails

  • A network of trails with options ranging from beginner to expert, surrounded by pristine nature.

  • Distance: Variable

• Lake Annecy Loop

  • A scenic ride around the lake with dedicated bike paths and minimal elevation gain.

  • Distance: ~40 km (24.9 miles)

  • Elevation gain: ~150 m (492 ft)

• Col de la Forclaz

  • A challenging climb with spectacular lake views, popular among cyclists.

  • Distance: ~16 km (9.9 miles)

  • Elevation gain: ~800 m (2,625 ft)

• Semnoz Summit

  • A tough ascent with rewarding views from the summit, often featured in the Tour de France.

  • Distance: ~18 km (11.2 miles)

  • Elevation gain: ~1,200 m (3,937 ft)

• Angles-sur-l’Anglin (Angles Crag)

  • A popular spot with routes for all levels, offering vertical walls and technical climbs.

• Grande Jeanne Crag

  • A beginner-friendly area just outside Annecy, perfect for practice and short routes.

• Pont des Fées Crag

  • A more advanced site with challenging routes and scenic surroundings.

• Dalle de la Colombière

  • Located near La Clusaz, offering routes with alpine views.

• Via Ferrata des Evettes

  • Location: Near La Flégère cable car

  • Difficulty: Moderate

  • Highlights: A stunning route with panoramic views of Mont Blanc and the Aiguilles Rouges. Features include a thrilling suspension bridge and exposed rock faces, ideal for intermediate climbers.

  • Access: Take the Flégère cable car to the starting point.

• Via Ferrata de Curalla

  • Location: Passy, a short drive from Chamonix

  • Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult

  • Highlights: A challenging route with spectacular views of Mont Blanc and the Arve Valley. It offers vertical sections and airy traverses, making it perfect for experienced adventurers.

  • Access: Park at Plateau d’Assy and follow the marked trail to the start.

• Via Ferrata de Saint-Gervais

  • Location: Saint-Gervais-les-Bains, near Chamonix

  • Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

  • Highlights: A family-friendly route with incredible views of the surrounding alpine scenery. The route includes several ladders, a suspension bridge, and a well-secured path.

  • Access: Easily accessible from the town center of Saint-Gervais.

Semnoz Plateau

A serene snowshoeing route offering panoramic views of Lake Annecy and Mont Blanc. Ideal for beginners and families.

• Distance: ~5 km (3.1 miles)

• Elevation gain: ~200 m (656 ft)

La Croix de l’Aiguille

A moderate trail through snowy forests with stunning vistas of the Bauges Massif and Lake Annecy.

• Distance: ~7 km (4.3 miles)

• Elevation gain: ~400 m (1,312 ft)

Parmelan Plateau

A more challenging snowshoe hike leading to a flat plateau with breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks.

• Distance: ~10 km (6.2 miles)

• Elevation gain: ~800 m (2,625 ft)

CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING

Glières Plateau

A historic and scenic area with well-maintained cross-country skiing trails, offering both classic and skate skiing.

• Distance: ~15 km (9.3 miles) of trails

• Skill level: Beginner to advanced

Beauregard Plateau

Wide trails with panoramic views of the Aravis mountain range, suitable for skiers of all levels.

• Distance: ~10 km (6.2 miles) of trails

• Skill level: Beginner to intermediate

Semnoz Nordic Area

Close to Annecy, this area features a mix of easy and moderate trails through forests and open spaces.

• Distance: ~20 km (12.4 miles) of trails

• Skill level: Beginner to advanced

La Cascade de Montmin

• Description: Located near the village of Montmin, this beginner-friendly icefall offers a gentle incline and shorter routes, making it ideal for newcomers to ice climbing.

• Features: Well-formed ice with manageable pitches and a scenic backdrop of the Montmin valley.

• Skill Level: Beginner

• Access: Easily accessible by car, with parking available near the trailhead.

La Cascade d'Angon

• Description: A popular ice climbing spot near Lake Annecy, offering varied routes that cater to different skill levels, including beginner-friendly lines on the lower sections.

• Features: Spectacular views of Lake Annecy and surrounding cliffs; ice is usually stable and well-formed in winter.

• Skill Level: Beginner to intermediate

• Access: Park in Angon and follow the marked trail to the icefall.

Les Gorges du Fier

• Description: A unique and sheltered ice climbing area located in a narrow gorge. The shorter routes and gentle ice formations make it a great place for beginners to practice technique.

• Features: Stunning ice formations in a dramatic gorge setting.

• Skill Level: Beginner

• Access: Approximately 20 minutes by car from Annecy, with clear signage to the area.

La Cascade de l'Envers

• Description: Situated near Thônes, this icefall offers short and easy routes perfect for first-timers. It’s a quieter location compared to more popular spots, ensuring a relaxed experience.

• Features: Consistent ice conditions and minimal exposure to risk.

• Skill Level: Beginner

• Access: Accessible by car, with a short hike to the base of the climb.

Le Plateau des Glières - Icefall Section

• Description: Known for its cross-country skiing trails, this area also features beginner-friendly ice climbing routes on small frozen waterfalls and ice walls.

• Features: Gentle routes with safe terrain for practicing basic techniques.

• Skill Level: Beginner

• Access: Park at the Glières Plateau trailhead and follow signs to the ice climbing section.

Cascade de la Balme

• Description: Located near La Clusaz, this spot features a range of routes, including beginner-friendly options with straightforward ice and minimal technical requirements.

• Features: Stable ice formations and a scenic mountain setting.

• Skill Level: Beginner

• Access: A short drive from Annecy, with parking available near the site.

La Clusaz

A world-class ski resort offering a mix of slopes for all levels, along with après-ski activities and stunning views.

• Distance from Annecy: ~30 km (18.6 miles)

• Slopes: 125 km (78 miles) of pistes

• Skill level: Beginner to advanced

Le Grand-Bornand

A family-friendly resort known for its charm and variety of pistes, perfect for beginners and intermediates.

• Distance from Annecy: ~33 km (20.5 miles)

• Slopes: 84 km (52 miles) of pistes

• Skill level: Beginner to advanced

Semnoz Ski Resort

A smaller, budget-friendly resort ideal for families and beginners, with beautiful views of Lake Annecy.

• Distance from Annecy: ~20 km (12.4 miles)

• Slopes: 20 km (12.4 miles) of pistes

• Skill level: Beginner to intermediate