Annecy: Tom de Dorlodot's favourite spots

At a glance

Paragliding, dreaming by the lake, tasting delicious local produce, exploring the region... Annecy has so much to offer

Adventurer and paraglider Tom de Dorlodot knows Annecy well, its lake, its mountains…
The pedestrian old town with its cobbled streets, its colourful houses…
Annecy is an invigorating destination with many facets and landscapes, well worth a visit for anyone heading to the French Alps.

Below, Tom and Sofia share their favourite spots and give you ideas for a wonderful stay in the French Alps.

The ideal spot to "take to the skies"

Have you always dreamed of paragliding, of flying over the Alps? Are you craving adrenaline? Do you want to soar above breathtaking landscapes and panoramas?

Head to the Planfait site!

Located near Annecy, at an altitude of 960 m, Planfait is the playground of seasoned paragliders, but also of enthusiasts. This free-flight site is set up for this extraordinary sport. Fly with the eagles, glide over the chamois, the forests, the peaks… Make the most of what nature has most beautiful to offer.

For beginners, several introductory flights are available. Take off alongside a professional instructor for a tandem paragliding flight. Spread your wings in the sky and let yourself be carried into an experience you won't soon forget: https://www.grandsespaces.com

An incomparable view of Lake Annecy

Travelling is also about treating yourself to moments of calm and tranquillity. So what could be better than a spot away from the crowds to recharge?

Head to the Ermitage Saint-Germain-sur-Talloires. Besides the historic heritage of the Church of Saint Germain, built in 1780, the site offers a breathtaking view over the Bay of Talloires and Lake Annecy. Equipped with benches to sit on, this spot lets you read, take in splendid landscapes, or simply admire the sunset. A car park is located behind the church, making it easy to park and fully enjoy this true haven of peace.

The Ermitage de Saint-Germain-sur-Talloires

In summer, don't hesitate to take a dip in the lake for a swim. What could be more refreshing than swimming at the foot of the peaks?

Bread like you've rarely tasted

Do you love unusual places away from the tourist crowds? Do you appreciate good produce and meeting local producers and craftspeople?

Head to 955 Route de la Ravoire, 74210 Doussard, where you'll find the Boulangerie La Tartine. While the place may not look like much from the outside, it is home to the wonderful talent of Seb and Erwan, two passionate bakers. A few years ago, they built their wood-fired oven to bake their bread using time-honoured methods. Hand-shaped, traditional loaves, walnut bread, raisin bread… these will delight the taste buds of food lovers. The icing on the cake: they work only with local, organic produce.

While the shop itself can only welcome a limited number of customers, you can also find the Boulangerie La Tartine at Annecy's Saturday morning market stalls.

Cool off at the Palais des Glaces

Are you an ice cream lover? Can't resist, especially on beautiful sunny days?

Located in the heart of the historic town centre, Le Palais des Glaces is "THE" ice cream parlour in Annecy. No surprise that you have to queue to taste an authentic Italian gelato. This artisan ice cream maker takes great care in choosing his ingredients. He uses whole milk sourced directly from the farm, fresh seasonal fruit, pistachios from Sicily… and makes his ice cream using traditional Italian know-how.

So, ready to stroll through the old town with an ice cream in hand? We've never been able to resist: palaisdesglaces

From the Ferme des Petits Pieds to the Guinguette Les Cassines

If you too love passionate producers, go and see Karen at the "Ferme des Petits Pieds". You'll be greeted by the flock of sheep and their friendly dog in the heart of a lovely estate. Take the opportunity to buy some sheep's cheese or fresh yoghurt. Karen makes them on site and they're simply divine.

While you're in the area, be sure to stop by the Guinguette Les Cassines. There you can enjoy great open sandwiches, a salad, the fabulous cheeses from the Ferme des Petits Pieds… In short, fresh, local, seasonal produce all round. You can also enjoy a drink on the terrace and stroll along the lake as if you lived there. Once again, this is a superb spot to watch the sunset over the lake and fully enjoy a unique moment. Simplicity and conviviality are the watchwords here. So, we love going there. \

La Guinguette des Cassines - Sharing good times in an exceptional setting.

Plenty more to discover

For hiking enthusiasts, don't hesitate to visit the Annecy Tourist Office or their website (Lake Annecy Tourist Office: what to visit, what to do, what to discover?). They also offer great activities and lovely places to discover.

As proof that you don't always have to travel far to discover magical places and passionate craftspeople.
Enjoy your stay in the French Alps, and see you soon for more great tips and beautiful adventures.

Tom & Sofia\