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Fun Things to Do in Annecy on a Sunny Day: 5 Ideas for Enjoying the Sun

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The sun is shining, and the peaks of Haute-Savoie are reflected in crystal-clear water… There’s no doubt about it—you’re in the right place. Whether you’re looking for intense sports or pure relaxation, Lake Annecy is the ultimate outdoor playground. Leave your stress behind—here’s a selection of summer activities, or things to do simply when the weather is nice, in Annecy. Ready to dive in?

1. Escape to the turquoise waters of Lake Annecy

It’s a picture-perfect scene, but you never get tired of it. Lake Annecy isn’t just beautiful to look at—you have to experience it firsthand. It’s the hub of outdoor activities in Annecy as soon as the temperature rises.

Rent a boat or a pedal boat: total freedom

Nothing beats the feeling of turning off the engine in the middle of the lake, far from the crowds on the beaches. Rent a boat that doesn’t require a license first thing in the morning to avoid the afternoon chop, then head out to sea.

Stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking for the more active

For those who want to earn their aperitif, stand-up paddleboarding is a must-try. Gliding across the water off Imperial Beach on the large lake lets you admire the lake’s underwater scenery while working on your core strength. 

You can rent transparent kayaks near Angon for the ultimate gliding experience. It’s relaxing, it’s beautiful, and it lets you explore small coves that are inaccessible on foot, such as those at Roc de Cher.

2. Get a bird's-eye view on a scenic hike

When the heat becomes stifling in the city, the solution is simple: head for the hills. The forest provides a natural barrier against UV rays, and the air there is much easier to breathe.

Mont Veyrier: the best view of the lake

This is *the* hike for Annecy locals. The ridge trail offers breathtaking views of the lake that will make you forget the climb.

  • Estimated time: about 2½ to 3 hours for the standard loop.
  • The bonus: most of the climb takes place under the trees. A real breath of fresh air.

La Tournette for experienced hikers

Here, the terrain changes. This is the highest point around the lake (2,351 m). It’s rocky, it’s steep, and you’re sure to spot some ibex.

Estimated time: Allow 5 to 6 hours round-trip. Please don’t wear flip-flops. The view of the Mont Blanc massif from the summit is a reward you have to earn.

3. Cycling around the lake: the classic route

The greenway that runs along the west bank is one of the most beautiful in Europe.

The key figure: 42 kilometers. That’s the total distance around the lake. The route is mostly flat, except for a short, steep climb in Talloires (the famous Montée du Thoron). If you’re not a seasoned cyclist, don’t hesitate to rent an e-bike: it’s actually the best way to enjoy the scenery without breaking a sweat.

people having a picnic

4. A lunch unlike any other

In Annecy, lunch isn’t just a quick break—it’s an outdoor activity in its own right. Forget dimly lit restaurants or sandwiches wolfed down on a city bench: here, lunch comes with a view, fresh air, and the spectacle of nature. Whether you’re in the mood for tranquility or a thrill, two approaches compete for the best way to enjoy the sunshine.

A picnic in the Jardins de l’Europe

After all that effort, it’s time to relax. Annecy has that “Dolce Vita” vibe you won’t find anywhere else in France.

The Jardins de l’Europe are incredibly charming, with their shaded lakeside promenade. Enjoy a homemade ice cream or a sandwich made with local ingredients and savor it in the Venice of the Alps. Lie down in the grass facing the mountains, surrounded by century-old trees and the graceful dance of the swans… Isn’t it lovely here? It’s the perfect time to completely unwind and watch the paragliders soar in the distance.

Lunch on the terrace at the Col de la Forclaz

The Col de la Forclaz is the lake’s balcony. Take a seat at one of the terraces suspended above the abyss for a moment that feels almost surreal. Order a Savoyard specialty (a raclette or a reblochonnade) and let the magic happen. Before you, the blue of the lake spreads out with an intensity you wouldn’t expect from the shore. 

What makes this lunch unique is the excitement of the takeoff. Just a few meters from your table, paragliders launch one after another in a spectacular display. It’s the perfect spot to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and watch these colorful dots dancing in the updrafts.

5. Take off to enjoy the view from above

If you could only do one thing, this would be it. It’s the perfect way to end the trip. It’s no coincidence that Annecy is a world-renowned paragliding destination. The view is, quite frankly, breathtaking.

More like paragliding…

The takeoff is from the Col de la Forclaz. You run a few meters, and suddenly… your feet leave the ground. Gliding silently over the lake—where the updrafts are exceptional and the mountains are right at eye level—is an experience you only get to have once (or a hundred times, if you get hooked).

This is the ultimate “premium” activity—the one that really makes a trip memorable. Whether you want to celebrate a special occasion or simply enjoy a timeless experience, don’t hesitate. Reservations fill up fast in the summer, so don’t wait too long to book your spot! You can find Delta Evasion at three locations to book your flight or simply get more information for next time!

… or a microlight flight?

Discover the lake in a whole new way with the microlight flights offered by Delta Evasion. It’s an extraordinary experience that ’s completely different from paragliding. Here, you don’t float through the air—you defy gravity thanks to an engine that propels you above the treetops. But that’s not all: you can fly alongside the geese if you choose this flight for an even more magical experience

Unlike paragliding, which relies on thermal currents to gain altitude, microlight flying gives you the freedom to choose your own route and allows you to cover long distances in no time.
So, are you ready to give it a try? 

Image de Elise Nocque
Elise Nocque

Normande d’origine ayant troqué ses falaises pour le ciel d'Annecy, Élise est monitrice de parapente diplômée d’État chez Delta Évasion. Véritable pile électrique au sol et « libellule » dans les airs, elle combine une pédagogie douce, une énergie débordante et un don unique : faire disparaître le stress pour ne laisser place qu'au plaisir pur de voler. Quand elle n'est pas suspendue à sa voile au-dessus du lac, vous la trouverez sûrement sur un wakeboard ou au sommet d'une montagne, fidèle à son mode de vie 100 % outdoor.

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