Whether you are a resident of Annecy or just passing through, if you are sporty, you are in the right place! Depending on the season and your preferences, you will have a wide range of sports activities at your disposal.
Winter sports in Annecy
In winter, it’s the reign of sliding in all its forms: alpine or Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, snowboarding, ski touring. We offer you below a wide selection of sports that can be practiced in the Annecy region. Several ski resorts near the city open their ski areas in December for the pleasure of snow and mountain lovers.
Alpine skiing
The beautiful ski resorts near Annecy are plentiful, Semnoz, for example, is a 20-minute drive away and allows you to ski down beautiful slopes. La Clusaz is also a ski resort favored by the people of Annecy in the Aravis range. The village is located about forty minutes from the city of Annecy.
Learn more: alpine skiing
Cross-country skiing
Ideal for family walks, cross-country skiing allows you to discover the beautiful forests of the Alps. Another advantage is that this sport is inexpensive and you can easily rent your equipment. Several Nordic areas are located near Annecy. We will think in particular of Semnoz, as well as the Plateau des Glières.
Learn more: cross-country skiing
Ski touring
This demanding sport involves climbing slopes by your own means and descending unmarked powder slopes. You will need to be equipped accordingly and have a DVA with you. Ski touring has become widely popular in recent years, and it is possible to be accompanied by professionals if you are a beginner.
Learn more: ski touring
Biathlon
Biathlon is a sport derived from cross-country skiing. Originating from Scandinavia, it is now part of the Olympic disciplines. France has many high-level athletes in biathlon. The general public can also try this sport directly in the ski resorts.
Learn more: biathlon around Annecy
sledding
Always very fun for families, sledding can be practiced at all resorts, especially from the first snowfall. Just 10 minutes from Annecy by car, the Puisots site at Semnoz is very popular with families. Now, thanks to designated circuits, sledding can also be practiced in summer, as in Megève or Les Saisies.
Learn more: sledding
Snowshoe hiking
Snowshoe hiking around Annecy is easy to practice. This activity allows you to take walks accessible to everyone. For the more athletic, some peaks around Annecy can be beautiful challenges. However, be sure to be accompanied by a guide if you have limited knowledge of the mountains and trails.
Learn more: snowshoe hiking
Snowmobiling
Snowmobiling is a sport that can be practiced with family, friends, or even solo. In any case, you will be accompanied by a professional. Several resorts in Haute-Savoie offer snowmobiling outings, such as Avoriaz or Megève.
Learn more: snowmobiling near Annecy
Ski-joëring
Ski-joëring is a sport that combines horse riding, sliding, and fun. With skis on your feet, you will be pulled by a horse on snowy trails. This discipline continues to develop in French resorts. It is accessible from the first star and allows you to experience new sensations. We recommend adding ski-joëring to your winter to-do list.
Learn more: where to ski-joëring near Annecy?
Sled dog
Sled dog is a must-do activity during the winter season. It is possible to try this sport in many resorts around Annecy. You will then have two options: sit in the sled or learn to drive a team. Don’t forget your camera and dress warmly.
Learn more: where to do sled dog near Annecy?
Mountaineering
Mountaineering is a sport practiced in high mountains. The first ascent of Mont Blanc took place in 1789. Since then, Chamonix has become the capital of mountaineering. However, this sport presents risks that must be known and appreciated. It is better to prepare as much as possible before your outing.
Learn more: where to go mountaineering near Annecy?
Sports in Annecy in summer
In summer, many water sports are offered: diving, swimming, water skiing, wakeboarding, paddleboarding, sailing. Outside the lake, you can easily practice golf, paragliding, running, mountain hiking, climbing, and cycling.
Trail and running
Trail running and running are activities that are perfectly suited to the city of Annecy and its mountainous environment. The surrounding mountains like Semnoz and Mont Veyrier also allow for trail running in an idyllic setting. Every year, the Lake Annecy Marathon welcomes several thousand runners.
Learn more: trail and running
Swimming
There are many beaches and swimming pools. They allow you to enjoy the joys of water in summer, but also the rest of the year, with the indoor pools in Annecy. We offer you a tour of the lake’s beaches and a presentation of the swimming pools in Annecy. You will just have to choose the one that suits you best, depending on the season.
Learn more: where to swim and bathe in Annecy?
Walking
Accessible to all, walking is a pleasant sport to practice with the beautiful landscapes of the city and Lake Annecy. We recommend the walk that goes from the Annecy town hall to the Petit Port in Annecy-le-Vieux. You can also extend the pleasure along the lake. We recommend the pontoons located on the Petit Port side at sunset.
Learn more: walks and tips to discover Annecy and its surroundings.
Rafting
Rafting is a white-water sport that is practiced in the rivers of Haute-Savoie or Savoie, and the descents are classified by levels. Thrill-seekers will be delighted to embark on this activity. Be careful, it is imperative to know how to swim. It is also advisable to have good physical condition.
Learn more: where to go rafting around Annecy?
Mountain hiking near Annecy
Hiking is a complete sport that can also be practiced with family. Many routes exist near Annecy. Be sure to check the weather before your outing. Also, make sure to equip yourself accordingly and not to embark on a hike that is not suitable for your level. You can be accompanied by a professional.
Learn more: hiking
Cycling
The city of Annecy and its lake are an ideal playground for cycling enthusiasts. The cycle paths in Annecy are numerous, as are the cycling routes. You can choose from our guide: 5 routes for cycling. If you enjoy the specialties of Haute-Savoie, you can take: The Cheese Route by bike.
Cycling around Lake Annecy is a must-do activity during your vacation, thanks to its famous greenway. During your vacation, bike rental is the ideal solution to practice this sport.
Learn more: tour of Lake Annecy by bike
Mountain biking
The Annecy region is a magnificent playground for all mountain biking enthusiasts. Cross country, downhill, or electric mountain biking, let yourself be guided to discover the best spots while not forgetting the essentials for your mountain bike bag. You can easily rent your mountain bike at a specialized shop in Annecy or a mountain resort.
Learn more: mountain biking
Climbing
Depending on your level, from beginners to experienced climbers, climbing clubs will guide you through the many routes that surround Lake Annecy. You can also practice in a club and enjoy outdoor outings. Don’t hesitate to call on a professional who will be able to ensure your safety.
Learn more: climbing
Via Ferrata
This activity is situated between climbing and hiking. It is a sporty route along an equipped rock face. The Thônes site, 15 minutes from Annecy, is worth discovering, as is the Passy site, which faces Mont Blanc. Renting equipment is quite feasible.
Learn more: via ferrata
Tree climbing
Tree climbing is a sports activity that involves completing a course in the trees. Perched several meters high and equipped with a harness, you will need to use your balance and face your fear of heights, if applicable. Specific courses adapted for children are also offered to practice this activity with family.
Learn more: tree climbing
Canyoning
Canyoning is a white-water sport that provides great sensations. The idea is to descend torrents, waterfalls, natural slides, and jump into the water. The nature near Annecy is very generous, offering magnificent canyons to discover this sport. Guaranteed sensations, but always while staying safe.
Learn more: canyoning
Caving
Caving is a sports activity that involves exploring caves. It therefore requires good physical conditions and being accompanied by a professional. Near Annecy, the most well-known cavity is certainly that of Prérouge, in the Bauges massif.
Learn more: caving
Canoeing-Kayaking
To discover the reed beds and wildlife of Lake Annecy, such as ducks and swans, nothing is better than kayaking, which allows for discreet approaches. You can paddle on Lake Annecy alone or with others and discover the Ric de Chère Nature Reserve directly from the water. Unique viewpoints guaranteed.
Learn more: canoeing-kayaking
Rowing
This complete and demanding sport helps maintain good physical condition while discovering the shores of Lake Annecy. It can be practiced in a club. Rowing is also very popular on Lake Aiguebelette or Lake Bourget, where competitions are regularly organized.
Learn more: rowing
Dragon Boat
Dragon Boat is a team sport. It comes directly from China, which is visible on the boats. These can accommodate up to 20 paddlers. They are accompanied by a steerer and a drummer. Every year, a competition takes place on Lake Annecy.
Learn more: Dragon Boat
Equestrianism
Horseback riding or pony riding ensures you practice a beautiful sport in quality spaces and equestrian clubs. We have many clubs around Annecy. You can also enjoy beautiful hikes in the Bauges or elsewhere in the Haute-Savoie department. Remember to wear good shoes and pants.
Learn more: equestrianism
Golf
Annecy, and more generally Haute-Savoie, offers beautiful golf courses such as those in Talloires or Évian. You can play them during your vacation. We offer you an overview of existing courses and a point on available equipment.
Learn more: golf
Paddle
This new sporting discipline will allow you to paddle along the shores of Lake Annecy and other bodies of water in the region. You just need a little balance, good weather, and you’re good to go. Paddle rentals can be found all around Lake Annecy. We recommend an early morning outing when the lake is still asleep.
Learn more: stand-up paddle
Water skiing and wakeboarding
Relatively easy to access, water skiing will offer you great sensations. The only condition: knowing how to swim. Many rental companies are located around Lake Annecy. Wakeboarding, a recent discipline, is also to be discovered on Lake Annecy. This cousin of winter snowboarding is a very popular sliding sport.
Learn more: water skiing and wakeboarding
Kitesurfing
This recent sport is practiced with a board pulled by a sail. This practice requires strong winds and excellent physical condition. You can see practitioners on Lake Annecy, but also on Lake Bourget. Be careful, it is mandatory to wear a life jacket when practicing kitesurfing.
Learn more: kitesurfing
Fishing
During your vacation, you can learn fishing techniques on Lake Annecy and the many rivers in the region. If you are already a fisherman, this is an opportunity to discover fishing in Haute-Savoie. But be careful, you will need to obtain a fishing permit to embark on this activity.
Learn more: fishing
Diving
Many diving clubs exist around Lake Annecy. These are true enthusiasts who will offer you either an introductory dive or a discovery of the most beautiful spots in Lake Annecy. Once underwater, you will discover the biodiversity of Lake Annecy, as well as the wrecks of old boats.
Learn more: diving
Paragliding
You are in luck, the paragliding site at Col de la Forclaz is considered one of the most beautiful in the world. The region also has other exceptional sites. We also offer you to discover 5 spots for paragliding near Annecy. Tandem or rental, dare to take flight.
Learn more: paragliding
Skydiving
For a thrill-seeking experience, skydiving is the ideal activity. Just remember to consult your general practitioner before taking the big leap. What are the sites for skydiving and flying over the most beautiful landscapes of Savoie?
Learn more: skydiving
Sailing
Lake Annecy is a magnificent playground for sailing enthusiasts. The wind is often present and allows for beautiful regattas. Sailboats, catamarans, dinghies, optimists, windsurfing, you have a wide choice. You just need to get in touch with a provider to find the formula that suits you.
Learn more: sailing
Paddle boats and motorboats
