Venice, with its iconic canals and romantic ambiance, has long held the crown as one of the world's most sought-after destinations. Yet, this fame comes at a cost. The Floating City is now buckling under the pressure of its 30 million annual visitors, leading to congested streets, inflated prices, and the recent introduction of a €5 entry fee for day-trippers.
The Alpine Alternative: Annecy's Allure
Fortunately for travellers seeking beauty without the bustle, a lesser-known European gem offers a similar charm. Nestled in southeastern France where Lake Annecy meets the Thiou River, the alpine city of Annecy has been affectionately nicknamed 'the Venice of France'.
Like its Italian counterpart, Annecy captivates with a network of winding canals, charming cobbled streets, and picturesque pastel-hued buildings. However, it carves out its own distinct identity with a breathtaking backdrop of the French Alps and a unique blend of history and culture.
Exploring the Venice of the Alps
At the heart of the experience is Annecy's Vieille Ville (Old Town). Visitors can wander through narrow streets and alleys lined with arcades and medieval buildings painted in shades of yellow, pink, and green. The quaint canals lead to the river Le Thiou, where the iconic Palais de l'Île, a 12th-century building that once served as a prison and courthouse, stands as a monumental piece of history.
Romance is in the air at the Pont des Amours (Lovers' Bridge), a footbridge near the Jardins de l'Europe offering scenic views of the city, canals, and lake. Overlooking it all is the Château d'Annecy, a restored castle that was once home to the Counts of Geneva. Today, it houses a museum with exhibits on Alpine furniture, religious art, regional natural history, and even an aquarium.
From Turquoise Waters to Cheesy Delights
For nature enthusiasts, Annecy's small canals feed into Lac d'Annecy, the third-largest lake in France. Renowned for its exceptionally clean, turquoise waters, the lake is a hub for activities. Located just an 18-minute drive from town, it offers everything from diving and paragliding to hiking, cycling, and serene boat tours.
The culinary scene is a major draw. Cheese enthusiasts are in for a treat with local specialties like Reblochon, Beaufort, and Tomme des Bauges. Visitors can indulge in al fresco Savoie cuisine, from familiar melted delights like raclette and fondue to regional classics such as Berthoud. Thanks to the lake, freshwater fish prepared grilled or smoked are local staples. The town is also famous for its artisanal chocolate, including the regional specialty, the 'reed', a chocolate shell filled with liquor from mountain herbs.
Echoing Venice's spirit, Annecy hosts its own annual Venetian carnival between February and March. For over two days, the Old Town transforms as participants in elaborate masks and costumes wander silently through the streets.
The most scenic way to reach Annecy from the UK is by train. The journey involves a Eurostar from London St Pancras to Paris Gare du Nord, followed by a high-speed TGV from Paris to Annecy, taking approximately 10 hours in total.
