Voie Verte du Lac d'Annecy - A small lakeside forest
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Voie Verte du Lac d'Annecy

4.6
·491k reviews·Annecy, France

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

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant temps, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Voie Verte du Lac d'Annecy - A small lakeside forest

Voie Verte du Lac d'Annecy

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant temps, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

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!

4.6
(491k reviews)

"The Voie Verte offers stunning, unobstructed lake views and a peaceful ride."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚲 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lake Annecy Panorama

Lake Annecy Panorama

Western Shore

Uninterrupted, stunning views of the turquoise lake and surrounding Alps. Perfect for photos!

TikTok
Former Railway Charm

Former Railway Charm

Along the entire route

Cycle or walk on a historic path, now a peaceful, flat route with unique perspectives.

Instagram
Charming Lakeside Villages

Charming Lakeside Villages

Various points along the route

Discover quaint villages and enjoy local life with easy access from the path.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Cycle the Scenic Route

Embrace the Voie Verte du Lac d'Annecy for a breathtaking cycling or walking experience. This former railway line offers a mostly flat, accessible path with stunning lake views, perfect for all fitness levels. TikTok

Plan Your Pedals

The Voie Verte spans about 35km one way, making a full loop around the lake a significant undertaking. Consider renting bikes in Annecy and planning your route to enjoy the diverse landscapes and charming villages along the western shore. Instagram

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall mornings
Why
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Warm sun, lively atmosphere
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🚵‍♂️ 40km À VÉLO AUTOUR DU LAC D'ANNECY La voie verte est un excellent moyen d'admirer le lac et d'avoir des points de vue visibles uniquement depuis la piste 📸 👉 Saviez-vous que l'aménagement sur notre rive avait été fait sur l'ancienne voie ferrée reliant Annecy à Albertville ? 🚃
camping.la.ferme
58 likes • 943 views

🚲 Rent a Bike in Annecy

Numerous rental shops offer bikes for all ages and abilities. Book ahead in peak season! Instagram

💧 Pack Plenty of Water

Stay hydrated, especially on warmer days. Refill stations are available but not everywhere. Reddit

La Vía Verde del Lago Annecy (Voie Verte du Lac d'Annecy) es una ruta ciclista y peatonal situada en los Alpes franceses. Recorre la orilla oeste del lago Annecy, sobre el trazado de una antigua vía de tren, lo que la hace prácticamente llana y muy accesible. Tiene unos 35 km de longitud (ida y vuelta son 70 km si haces todo el recorrido), y conecta la preciosa ciudad de Annecy con otras localida...
viviraventuras
88 likes • 1.7K views
reddit.com

Tips for biking around Lake Annecy

📸 Capture the Views

The lake vistas are incredible! Bring your camera or phone for unforgettable shots. TikTok

🥾 Comfortable Footwear

Even if cycling, comfortable shoes are a must for stops and exploring villages. Instagram

reddit.com

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! Instagram

💧 Pack Plenty of Water

Stay hydrated, especially on warmer days. Refill stations are available but not everywhere. Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

The lake vistas are incredible! Bring your camera or phone for unforgettable shots. TikTok

🥾 Comfortable Footwear

Even if cycling, comfortable shoes are a must for stops and exploring villages. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

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

Breathtaking lake views
Flat, accessible path
Peaceful cycling experience

What People Dislike

Long distance for some
Limited amenities

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

Cycling is highly recommended for covering more ground and enjoying the scenery. However, it's also a beautiful path for walking and rollerblading. TikTokInstagram

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. Instagram

🎫 🎫 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. TikTok

The Voie Verte is open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, it's best enjoyed during daylight hours for safety and visibility. Instagram

There is no entrance fee. The Voie Verte is a public amenity for everyone to enjoy. TikTok

Absolutely! Bringing your own bike is a great option if you have one. Otherwise, numerous rental shops in Annecy offer a wide selection. Instagram

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. Instagram

🎫 🧭 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. Instagram

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. Instagram

Expect stunning, unobstructed views of Lake Annecy, the surrounding mountains, and charming lakeside villages. It's a truly picturesque route. TikTok

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. Instagram

Absolutely! The flat, car-free path is ideal for families. Many families rent bikes with child seats or trailers. Instagram

📸 📸 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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. Reddit

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Young Children

The Voie Verte du Lac d'Annecy is an absolute gem for families. Its flat, car-free terrain makes it incredibly safe and easy for children to cycle or walk. Many bike rental shops in Annecy offer child seats, trailers, or even small bikes, ensuring everyone can join the fun. Instagram

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. Instagram

🚴 Budget Travelers

The Voie Verte du Lac d'Annecy is a fantastic, low-cost adventure. The path itself is free to access, and you can save money by packing your own picnic lunches and snacks. TikTok

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. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Cycling the Voie Verte: Your Ultimate Guide

The Voie Verte du Lac d'Annecy is a dream for cyclists, offering a mostly flat, car-free path that hugs the western shore of the stunning Lake Annecy. Spanning approximately 35 kilometers one way, this route is built on the foundation of an old railway line, ensuring a smooth and accessible journey for riders of all levels. Many visitors choose to rent bikes in Annecy itself, with numerous shops offering a variety of options, from standard bicycles to electric bikes and family-friendly trailers. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

Capturing the Beauty: Photography on the Voie Verte

The Voie Verte du Lac d'Annecy is a photographer's paradise, offering endless opportunities to capture the breathtaking beauty of the French Alps and the crystal-clear waters of Lake Annecy. The route's design, following the gentle contours of the former railway, provides unobstructed views that are simply spectacular. Early mornings and late afternoons are particularly magical, with the 'golden hour' light casting a warm glow over the landscape, creating dramatic reflections on the lake's surface. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. Reddit

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