Lake Annecy in the Alps is one Europe’s cleanest lakes—and it has many beaches where you can enjoy the crystal-clear waters. Read on for our favourites!
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1. Plage de l’Impérial in Annecy
Far from the busy beaches of the coast, Annecy is perfect for a bit of lake, sand and sun. Pretend you’re on the elegant Riviera while you lounge on the shores of one of Europe’s purest lakes, where temperatures can reach up to 26°.
Plage de l’ImpériaI is to Annecy what Pampelonne is to Saint-Tropez. Whether you’re relaxing on a chaise lounge on the white sands or sitting comfortably on one of the couches at the “on the beach” bar, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to an island at the ends of the earth. Next to the beach, you will find nearly 10,000 square metres of lush green grass, a popular area offering a multitude of summer activities: beach volleyball, trampolines, inflatable castles and a water slide.
- Plage de l’Impérial in Annecy
- 30 Avenue d'Albigny
- 74000
- Annecy
- France
- 04 50 19 19 73
- Price info: Transat 15 € per day. Beach entrance 4 € and family of 4 8,50 €. 5 and 10 entry formulas!
2. The Spinnaker’s private beach in Duingt
Another top spot: the private beach owned by the Spinnaker in Duingt, on the Western shore. Follow the lake toward Talloires until you reach the far side of the village of Duingt. The views of the lake and mountains are simply stunning.
This beautiful white-sand beach is a popular place to spend the afternoon with friends or family. It’s the perfect spot to soak up some sun with a cocktail in your hand before taking a dip in the deep blue waters. You can also enjoy a light, delicious meal at the restaurant on the beach.
- The Spinnaker’s private beach in Duingt
- 590 Route d'Annecy,
- 74410
- Duingt
- France
- 04 50 88 24 88
- Opening hours: Every day from 10 am to 1 am
- Price info: Consumption is mandatory.
3. Other beaches around the lake
All around the lake, from Annecy (Plage de l’Impérial and Plage des Marquisats) to Annecy-le-Vieux by way of Sevrier, Saint-Jorioz, Doussard, Angon, Talloires, Menthon St-Bernard and Veyrier-du-Lac, you will find beautiful, safe, well-maintained beaches to enjoy with your family.
Little ones adore the wading pools and playgrounds, while teenagers can play beach volleyball or enjoy sailing, water skiing, wakeboarding or even kitesurfing.
4. Kayaking at the Bout du Lac nature reserve
Sport and nature lovers can choose between kayaking through the Bout du Lac nature reserve, famous for its wildlife and reed beds, or trying their hand at stand up paddle-boarding, the latest fad. Regular paddleboard excursions take place, leaving from Duingt and Talloires.
5. For food lovers
Park your car at Angon Beach, then walk down the tree-lined path. There you will find the Petit Paradis, located in an idyllic, isolated spot at the water’s edge. The simple, refined cuisine has a special focus on fish and grilled meats.
At lunchtime, when it’s hot outside, you can request a table in the shade of the plane trees. Paddleboards are also available for exploring the banks and inlets.
- Petit Paradis – Angon Beach
- 110 Plage d'Angon
- 74290
- Talloires-Montmin
- France
- 04 50 65 21 70
- Price info: From April to September. Specialities from 18 to 25 €.
6. Happy hour in the sun
At the end of the day, we recommend heading to the Moon for their elegant “Apérosé” , which takes place on the Plage de l’Impérial every Thursday starting at 7 pm. This restaurant features designer decor and a rooftop bar with a 180° view of the bay.
- The Moon
- Avenue d’Albigny
- 74000
- Annecy
- France
- 04 50 27 15 35
- Opening hours: From April through October
- Price info: 5 euros per glass with all-you-can-eat buffet. For those 25 years and older.