Nestled in the crisp, fresh air of the French Alps lies the charming town of Annecy. Often called the “Venice of France” due to its high number of canals, Annecy is the perfect place for both nature and city lovers alike. It surrounds the magnificent Lac d’Annecy where you can frequently spot sailboats, kayaks, paddle boats, and swimmers during the summer season. If you’re lucky, you might even spy some swans and their cygnets taking a swim. On a prime, sunny day, check out “le paquier” – a giant, grassy park along the lake – where you are sure to find plenty of pick up soccer games and picnics complete with fresh baguettes, wine, and the famous Reblochon cheese made in the Haute de Savoie region. If you’re looking to try local French cuisine, the Sunday farmers market in the old town is a must, particularly because it winds its way along the canals and down Annecy’s 18th century cobblestone streets. Be sure to try the cheese fondu and a pain au chocolat from La Rouge Boulangerie – it’s the best in town!

For those who are looking for more outdoor activities, a bicycle path runs around the entirety of the lake and passes through other nearby beach towns such as Talloires, Annecy le Vieux, Veyrier du Lac, and Menton St. Bernard, where you can climb up to the old chateau for an incredible view of the surrounding countryside. Hiking is popular, particularly up Les Aravis Mountains to reach the highly acclaimed Mont Blanc, meaning “White Mountain.” It’s best to train for that hike, though! Mont Blanc is the highest mountain of the Alps and one of the highest peaks in Europe reaching 4,810m above sea level. For an easier hike, there are many trails around the immediate lake, including one to St. Germain church, which dates back to the 1100s!

If hiking isn’t your thing, the best view of the city can be found from Annecy’s own chateau where local school choirs often hold Christmas concerts. Located atop the old town, it’s only a short walk away from Glacier des Alps, a local gelato favorite. If you need a little extra energy for the trip, check out their lavender flavored gelato. It’s truly unique!

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Have you been to this location?  Think there’s anything we forgot to mention?  We’d love to hear about your experience! Leave a comment below!

[accordion_tab title=”Collegiate Correspondent: Sarah Brown” default]

Sarah Brown is a current senior at Tufts University studying English and Child Development. An avid traveler and writer, she spent an incredible semester in Copenhagen, Denmark in the spring of 2015 studying the Danish education system, learning Danish, making lifelong friends, traveling to 10 different countries, and embracing a European lifestyle. She dreadfully misses her bicycle, the rye bread, the sound of the Danish language, and dressing head to toe in black every day of the year. Sarah also speaks French (even to those who have no clue what she is saying), and has traveled to France several times through exchange, language, and study abroad programs in quest of the best chocolate croissant – and to perfect her French. As someone who embraces adventure, getting “intentionally” lost in new places, and meeting new people, she is very excited to be joining the Voy team. After working in the Copenhagen International School this past spring, she hopes to pursue teaching abroad in international schools. Bucket list destinations include: Thailand, New Zealand, Croatia, and Peru.[/accordion_tab]