Lake Annecy

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Annecy, France

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Lakes and Rivers
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Lac d’Annecy (Lake Annecy)

by Tolik

Tampa, Florida

December 11, 2006

Best of IgoUgo The majestic lake with the French Alps looming above and a lakefront of beauty and activity is a major attraction. The second largest lake in France rests at the foot of the Alps at the altitude of 447 m. It was created 18,000 years ago from thawing ...Read more The majestic lake with the French Alps looming above and a lakefront of beauty and activity is a major attraction. The second largest lake in France rests at the foot of the Alps at the altitude of 447 m. It was created 18,000 years ago from thawing glaciers and covers 27 square kilometers/10.5 square miles. It is a long narrow lake (max-length 14.6 km, max-width 3.2km, and max-depth 64.7 m). Three main tributary rivers, Eau Morte, Ire and Borette contribute water to the lake. The Thiou River flows out from the northernmost end of the lake through the town of Annecy, soon joins the Fier River, and finally enters the Rhone River and eventually descending into the Mediterranean. The east and west sides of the lake are guarded by the steep mountain slopes which channel prevailing northerly and northwesterly winds over the lake surface. The lake consists of two basins. The northern main basin, approximately 9.8 km x 3.1 km in size, accounts for about 78% of the whole lake area and volume, while the southern basin for only 22%.

The splendid setting is rightly celebrated since the 19th century by painters and writers. You can swim, boat or sail in Annecy Lake. Once very polluted, the lake is today famous as one of the cleanest lakes in the world and home to a wide range of wildlife including 20 species of fish. So it will come as no surprise that noble fish like dace and char prosper here alongside perches and pikes. With all these fish means the local cuisine is delicious.

Imagine a huge swath of blue-green water surrounded by a snow-capped summit (the Tournette), sharp rocky ledges (the Dents de Lanfon), dark forests and deep valleys. During our visit in September, it was a sunny, warm day and it was humming with sailboats and motorboats dancing on the water. There are also many swans wading in the waters - they came right up to us hoping for food. Picnickers, bikers, and walkers filled the lakefront pathways and gardens but bear in mind that the water may be cold for swimming! Locals and visitors alike, many of them with dogs, enjoyed the glorious early fall day. At night the lake is equally beautiful, providing in the distance views of small towns lit up on the hillsides across the water.

Many boat trips and excursions run from the esplanade and marinas to experience the best view of the lakes, surrounding mountains, and lakeside villages. Tours run from Easter to the end of September and usually last 1 to 2 hours. A tour that makes stops at every significant village around the lake's edge lasts 1 3/4 hours. During July and August, there are three boat tours daily, allowing you to get off at whatever port you want, explore the town and pick up the next boat for a return before nightfall to Annecy. Close

From journal A Gem of the French Alps

Lake Annecy

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Lac d’Annecy (Lake Annecy)