Cycling In The Annecy Region
Your accommodation...
We have taken every care to find hotels that have character, are of different standards to suit all budgets and that are in excellent locations with access to a variety possible outs and places of interest. They range from 3* and 2* hotels to family hotels that offer good accommodation at budget prices
In the Annecy Area ...
Annecy is located at the head of a large glacial lake that is the remnant of a much larger one that existed after the end of the Ice Age. As a consequence of this, there is a wide variety of scenery to suit most cyclists with rolling hills to the north of the town or more rugged mountain scenery to the south of the lake.
As with our walking itineraries we propose that your stay be based at one or two hotels during your stay which then provides ample opportunities to explore the region each day.
To the north of the historic town of Annecy the terrain is that of rolling hills, green fields and small villages. Cycle routes are clearly marked and also make possible visits to the Gorges du Fier and the Chateau de Montrottier.
From your tour base in Faverges or Talloires, there are well marked routes around the Lac de Annecy The cycle routes, newly established, are separate from the main roads so that you cycle in safety on designated paths or country roads by the lake. It is possible to cycle around the lake in its entirety. Why not pause to lunch and look around Annecy, take a boat trip on the lake or even pause to swim on a fine day.
Above the village of Talloires is the Col de la Forclaz. This is a steep and challenging climb and has been part of a stage in the Tour de France. Even if you don't cycle up it is well worth a drive to the top; the view is spectacular and lunch is very good overlooking the lake.
To the south of the Lac de Annecy the landscape is more challenging but nevertheless it is possible to cycle along the Val d'Arly and visit cheese factories on your way to the pretty village of Megeve.
For those seeking more of a challenge, the route from Albertville along the Val de Doron is a previous route of the Tour de France and can be combined with the climb to Les Saisies before returning to your base.
From Faverges it is a relatively short ride to the ski station of La Sambuay along pretty country lanes and include a guided tour of some local caves and a waterfall en route.
