Ultimate Guide to Visiting Lake Annecy, France: Venice of the Alps

Framed by snow-dusted Savoyard peaks, Lake Annecy combines turquoise alpine waters with pastel medieval canals. 1. Vieille Ville and Palais de l'Isle Wander along canals draped in flower boxes to photograph the 12th-century island prison (Palais de l'Isle) and shop local artisan cheeses. 2. Lakeside Cycling and Paragliding Ride the 40-kilometer paved cycle path circumnavigating the entire lake, or take a tandem paragliding flight from Col de la Forclaz. Travel Tip: Rent a small electric boat or paddleboard in the morning when the lake surface is mirror-calm. Indulge in Savoyard raclette, pristine mountain waters, and romantic alpine charm.