The magnificent landscapes of Annecy between lake and mountain are very popular playgrounds for running and trail enthusiasts. How to enjoy the most beautiful sites to practice your favorite sport near Annecy?
Running versus Trail
In terms of running, there are two disciplines. Depending on your tastes and abilities, you can choose the one that appeals to you the most. Running is practiced over distances of 5 km, 10 km, half-marathon, and marathon. Trail, also called nature running, is up to 21 km, medium-distance trail up to 80 km, and ultra trail beyond.
The terrains are also different. The runner runs on paved roads, on marked paths that are stabilized. The trailer prefers the raw terrain: dirt paths, grass, and mud. Natural obstacles are welcome: tree trunks, roots, small streams.
For the runner, the elevation gain is often negligible, the road is flat, and it is the management of effort that allows improving their time. The shores of the lake are conducive to this form of running with each year a flagship event: the international marathon of Lake Annecy. The trailer will face steep slopes that make their effort much less consistent. Walking is then possible to reach the end. The mountains around Annecy offer all levels of trail, it’s up to you to choose.
The runner’s equipment is also lighter: t-shirt, pair of running shoes, and shorts. The trailer must have equipment to ensure their autonomy for several hours: hydration, supplies, jacket depending on the weather.
Where to run in Annecy?
We offer you the top 5 nice spots for running near Annecy. They differ in terms of elevation gain, natural environment, and difficulties.
- The shores of Lake Annecy: this is the most frequented site but it is more accessible early in the morning or in the early evening. The view of the mountains reflecting in the lake is unforgettable. You can run from the Marquisats beach to Petit Port in Annecy-le-vieux, no elevation gain, ideal for running.
- The natural area of Vallon du Fier: Located near the Annecy hospital, it is a wooded area that runs along the banks of the Fier, completely flat, allowing for a good hour of running on forest and rocky ground. The parking is convenient and large.
- The Semnoz forest: Very close to the center of Annecy, Semnoz is a mountain with a gradual elevation gain, and there are multiple paths. Be careful to take good landmarks as it is easy to get lost. You may see traces of the wildlife of Haute-Savoie.
- The Age mountain: You can reach it by parking at the Poisy tennis parking lot. The forest is generally flat with a few small slopes. A good spot for running, less frequented than the previous ones.
- Mount Veyrier: This is the first mountain on the east bank of Lake Annecy. It is a very popular trail loop among the locals with a beautiful panoramic view of the lake. It is advisable to be cautious in case of muddy terrain or snow on certain sections.
Greenweez Maxi-Race of Lake Annecy
This event is part of the major trails listed on the French calendar. The Maxi-Race of Lake Annecy allows competitors to discover the mountains surrounding Lake Annecy. It traditionally takes place in May. Special attention is given by the organizers to the eco-responsible approach of the event: development of social ties, reduction of plastic, short or organic supply chains.
The White Trail of Semnoz
The Semnoz station, located 30 minutes from Annecy, organizes an annual running event on snowy trails at the end of January. The uniqueness of this event: the start is given at nightfall, at 6 PM. Runners will have to cover 11 kilometers with a headlamp while enjoying the sunset panorama over Mont-Blanc. The start is at the height of the alpine ski ticket office to reach the summit of the slopes, the Crêt de l’Aigle, and then descend the Crêt de Chatillon. This trail is very popular each year, and it is advisable to register in advance. Elevation gain: 460 m.
The White Ram Trail
In the same spirit as the previous race, the White Ram Trail takes place every year in early February in the heights of La Clusaz, on the Confins plateau in winter with three options.
- A night trail of 14 km, elevation gain 570 meters,
- A trail of 8 km, elevation gain of 330 m,
- A snowshoe hike of 6 km, 160 m of elevation gain.
This race also takes place in summer and attracts a large audience each year.
