Voie Verte du Lac d'Annecy
A scenic, flat cycling and walking path along the western shore of Lake Annecy, built on an old railway line. Perfect for all ages!

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Voie Verte du Lac d'Annecy
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic, flat cycling and walking path along the western shore of Lake Annecy, built on an old railway line. Perfect for all ages!
"The Voie Verte offers stunning, unobstructed lake views and a peaceful ride."
🚲 Rent a Bike in Annecy
Numerous rental shops offer bikes for all ages and abilities. Book ahead in peak season!
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially on warmer days. Refill stations are available but not everywhere.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lake Annecy Panorama
Western Shore
Uninterrupted, stunning views of the turquoise lake and surrounding Alps. Perfect for photos!

Former Railway Charm
Along the entire route
Cycle or walk on a historic path, now a peaceful, flat route with unique perspectives.

Charming Lakeside Villages
Various points along the route
Discover quaint villages and enjoy local life with easy access from the path.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Cycle the Scenic Route
Plan Your Pedals
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚲 Rent a Bike in Annecy
Numerous rental shops offer bikes for all ages and abilities. Book ahead in peak season!
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially on warmer days. Refill stations are available but not everywhere.
Tips for biking around Lake Annecy
📸 Capture the Views
The lake vistas are incredible! Bring your camera or phone for unforgettable shots.
🥾 Comfortable Footwear
Even if cycling, comfortable shoes are a must for stops and exploring villages.
Cycling Lac du Annecy (France)
Tips
from all over the internet
🚲 Rent a Bike in Annecy
Numerous rental shops offer bikes for all ages and abilities. Book ahead in peak season!
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially on warmer days. Refill stations are available but not everywhere.
📸 Capture the Views
The lake vistas are incredible! Bring your camera or phone for unforgettable shots.
🥾 Comfortable Footwear
Even if cycling, comfortable shoes are a must for stops and exploring villages.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Voie Verte du Lac d'Annecy for its stunning lake views and accessible, flat terrain, making it perfect for cycling and walking. The former railway line offers a unique and peaceful way to explore the picturesque western shore of Lake Annecy. Some find the full 35km route lengthy, and amenities can be spread out.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Voie Verte is easily accessible from Annecy. You can start your journey directly from the city center, where many bike rental shops are located. Public transport options to Annecy are also available, making it a convenient starting point for exploring the voie verte.
While the voie verte itself is car-free, there are parking areas near the route in various villages along the western shore. However, cycling or walking is the intended and most enjoyable way to experience it.
Yes, the voie verte runs along the western side of Lake Annecy, and you can join it at numerous points. Annecy is the most popular starting point, but villages like Sevrier and Doussard also offer access.
Cycling is highly recommended for covering more ground and enjoying the scenery. However, it's also a beautiful path for walking and rollerblading.
While there isn't direct public transport on the voie verte, buses do run along the main roads parallel to parts of the route, connecting villages. This can be useful for shorter trips or if you need to return to your starting point.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Voie Verte du Lac d'Annecy is a public path and is completely free to access. You only need to pay for bike rentals or any food/drinks you purchase along the way.
The Voie Verte is open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, it's best enjoyed during daylight hours for safety and visibility.
There is no entrance fee. The Voie Verte is a public amenity for everyone to enjoy.
Absolutely! Bringing your own bike is a great option if you have one. Otherwise, numerous rental shops in Annecy offer a wide selection.
The main restriction is that it's a non-motorized path, so only bicycles, pedestrians, and rollerbladers are allowed. Dogs are generally permitted but should be kept on a leash.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Voie Verte is about 35km one way. Cycling the entire length and back can take 3-5 hours depending on your pace and how often you stop. Many people cycle a portion of it.
The Voie Verte is predominantly flat, as it follows the path of an old railway line. This makes it very accessible and enjoyable for all ages and fitness levels.
Expect stunning, unobstructed views of Lake Annecy, the surrounding mountains, and charming lakeside villages. It's a truly picturesque route.
Yes, there are several cafes, restaurants, and picnic spots along the route, especially in the villages. It's advisable to carry some snacks and water, though.
Absolutely! The flat, car-free path is ideal for families. Many families rent bikes with child seats or trailers.
📸 📸 Photography
Anywhere with a clear view of the lake! Look for spots where the water is calm and reflects the mountains. The sections passing through charming villages also offer great photo opportunities.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and beautiful golden hues. Sunrise and sunset can be spectacular over the lake.
Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check local rules and regulations regarding drone usage in protected natural areas and near populated areas before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive lake and mountain scenery. A telephoto lens can be useful for details in the distance. A polarizing filter can enhance the blues of the water and sky.
The entire route is a landmark! However, look out for the picturesque bridges, the charming village centers, and any viewpoints that offer panoramic vistas of the lake.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children
Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, and plan for frequent stops at the numerous picnic spots or charming lakeside cafes. The gentle pace allows for spontaneous exploration of the small villages and plenty of opportunities for kids to enjoy the lakeside. It’s a fantastic way to create lasting family memories in a beautiful natural setting.
🚴 Budget Travelers
While bike rentals are an expense, they are generally affordable, especially if you opt for a standard bicycle rather than an e-bike. Consider bringing your own water bottles and refilling them at public fountains where available. This route offers incredible scenery and a memorable experience without breaking the bank.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Cycling the Voie Verte: Your Ultimate Guide
When planning your ride, consider the full 70km round trip or opt for a shorter section. Popular starting points include Annecy, Sevrier, and Doussard. The path is well-maintained and clearly marked, making navigation straightforward. Along the way, you'll encounter charming lakeside villages, perfect for a leisurely stop for a picnic or a refreshing drink at a local cafe. Remember to pack water and snacks, as amenities can be spaced out.
For those seeking a more adventurous experience, the Reddit community sometimes discusses extending the journey onto gravel access roads in the surrounding hills, offering elevated perspectives of the lake. However, for a relaxed and scenic experience, sticking to the main Voie Verte is highly recommended.
Capturing the Beauty: Photography on the Voie Verte
Key photographic subjects include the vast expanse of the lake itself, the majestic mountains that cradle it, and the charming architecture of the lakeside villages you'll pass through. Don't miss opportunities to photograph the unique perspective from the old railway bridges or the tranquil sections of the path winding through lush greenery. Many visitors find that a wide-angle lens is essential for capturing the grandeur of the scenery, while a telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details in the distance.
Remember to bring a fully charged phone or camera, as you'll want to document every turn. Consider a polarizing filter to enhance the vibrant blues of the water and sky. While the Voie Verte is a public space, always be mindful of other users and respect any local regulations, especially if considering drone photography.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit