Top 10 most beautiful villages to visit around Annecy

The area around Annecy, a picturesque town in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, is dotted with charming villages such as Menthon Saint Bernard, Saint Jorioz, Talloires Montmin, Veyrier du Lac and Yvoire, all of which are breathtakingly beautiful. These havens of peace nestling at the foot of the mountains (Mont Veyrier or others), or on the shores of sparkling lakes, are captivating destinations for nature and heritage lovers exploring Haute Savoie. Here are the most beautiful villages around Annecy for an unforgettable getaway around the lake.

1. Yvoire, the pearl of Lake Geneva

Yvoire, nicknamed the Pearl of Lake Geneva, is a majestic medieval village that has preserved its charm of yesteryear. Listed as one of the most beautiful villages in France, Yvoire’s charm lies in its cobbled streets, flower-filled houses, garden of the five senses and fortified castle overlooking the lake. This veritable open-air museum offers a plunge into the past, set against a backdrop of breathtaking lake and mountain scenery.

The village is also renowned for its gastronomy. Lovers of freshwater fish will particularly appreciate the Lake Geneva perch fillets served in the village’s many restaurants. A visit to Yvoire is a rewarding experience, both for the eyes and the taste buds.

2. Alby sur Chéran, the discreet medieval town

Alby sur Chéran is a medieval village nestling in the heart of the Bauges massif. Among the department’s communes, it is renowned for its exceptional architectural heritage, with half-timbered houses, a castle and stone bridges spanning the River Chéran. The village’s low-key feel adds to its charm, and a stroll through its narrow streets is like stepping back in time.

The village is also a paradise for nature lovers. Hiking trails through the surrounding rolling countryside offer superb panoramic views and are suitable for all abilities. What’s more, the river Chéran is a popular spot for swimming in summer and fishing all year round.

3. Chic Megève

Megève is an internationally renowned ski resort that has retained the charm of a traditional Savoyard village. With its wooden chalets, bulbous church tower and lively central square, Megève is as much about authenticity as it is about elegance. Luxury boutiques and gourmet restaurants give the resort a chic, refined atmosphere.

In winter, Megève offers an exceptional ski area, with over 400 kilometres of pistes. In summer, the village transforms itself into an outdoor destination, with numerous activities such as hiking, golf and paragliding. Whatever the season, Megève offers an idyllic setting to recharge your batteries and enjoy the beauty of the Alps.

4. Samoëns, the village square

Samoëns is an authentic Savoyard village that has managed to retain its soul of yesteryear. Its architectural heritage, particularly the church square surrounded by historic buildings, bears witness to its rich past. The large fir tree in the centre of the square is one of the oldest in France, giving Samoëns a unique charm.

As well as its heritage, Samoëns also has an exceptional natural setting. Situated in the Giffre Massif, the village is surrounded by majestic mountains and lush green countryside. There’s plenty to do in the great outdoors: hiking, mountain biking, climbing, rafting… Samoëns is a destination of choice for nature lovers and sports enthusiasts.

5. Saint-Gervais, the arty resort

Saint-Gervais is a ski resort that has managed to retain the authenticity of a Savoyard village. What makes it special? Its desire to combine heritage, culture and contemporary art. As well as its traditional architectural heritage, Saint-Gervais also boasts open-air art installations, temporary exhibitions and a rich cultural programme.

The resort also boasts a high-quality ski area, linked to the famous Evasion Mont-Blanc ski area. In summer, Saint-Gervais becomes a paradise for hikers, with numerous trails offering exceptional panoramic views of the Mont-Blanc massif. The resort is also renowned for its thermal baths, ideal for relaxing after a day’s skiing or walking.

6. La Clusaz, the authentic Aravis village resort

La Clusaz is a ski resort that has retained the soul of an authentic Savoyard village. With its wooden chalets, traditional farmhouses and church with its bulbous bell tower, La Clusaz exudes a warm and friendly atmosphere. The village is particularly lively in winter, when skiers come to take advantage of its varied ski area, suitable for all abilities.

But there’s more to La Clusaz than its ski slopes. The village is surrounded by the Aravis massif, which offers superb panoramic views and plenty of opportunities for hiking in summer. The surrounding mountain pastures are also home to the region’s signature Reblochon cheese, which you can sample in one of the village’s many restaurants.

7. Talloires, the village on the shores of Lake Annecy

Talloires is a picturesque village on the shores of Lake Annecy. With its colourful houses, small harbour and sandy beach, Talloires offers an idyllic setting for a waterside getaway. The village is also renowned for its heritage, notably its thousand-year-old abbey and the Château de Menthon-Saint-Bernard, which overlooks the lake.

Talloires’ location on the shores of Lake Annecy offers numerous opportunities for water-based activities: swimming, sailing, paddle-boarding, etc. In summer, the village is particularly lively, with numerous cultural and festive events. Gastronomy is also in the spotlight, with several Michelin-starred restaurants offering refined cuisine inspired by local produce.

8. Abondance, village and bell tower

Abondance is a mountain village in the Chablais region of Savoie. It is famous for its bulbous bell tower, typical of Savoyard architecture, which dominates the landscape. The village is also famous for its abbey, a jewel of Gothic art, and for its cheese, abondance, produced in the surrounding mountain pastures.

Abondance is surrounded by an exceptional natural setting, with majestic mountains and dense forests. Hiking enthusiasts will be delighted by the many trails that criss-cross the surrounding area. In winter, the village becomes a family ski resort, with a ski area suitable for all levels.

9. Chamonix, the tourist capital of the Alps

Chamonix is a world-renowned ski resort, situated at the foot of Mont Blanc, Europe’s highest peak. With its traditional chalets, luxury boutiques and gourmet restaurants, Chamonix is both authentic and cosmopolitan. The village is also renowned for its heritage, including its Baroque church and the Alpine Museum, which traces the history of mountaineering.

Chamonix’s ski area is one of the finest in the world, with slopes offering exceptional views of Mont Blanc. In summer, the village is an ideal starting point for numerous hikes, including ascents of Mont Blanc for the more adventurous. Chamonix is undoubtedly a must-see destination for mountain lovers.

10. Cordon, bulbous bell tower facing Mont Blanc

Cordon is a small Savoyard village facing Mont Blanc. It is famous for its bulbous bell tower, which stands out against the majestic panorama of the Mont Blanc massif. Cordon has preserved its authenticity and charm, with its wooden chalets, traditional farmhouses and narrow flower-lined streets.

The village is surrounded by an exceptional natural setting, with numerous hiking trails and a family-friendly ski area. In summer, the surrounding mountain pastures are covered in flowers and offer a dazzling display of colour. Cordon is an ideal place to recharge your batteries, away from the hustle and bustle of the big ski resorts.

Each of these villages around Annecy has its own unique charm and offers a different experience. Whether you’re a lover of nature, heritage, gastronomy or sport, you’re sure to find a village to suit your needs. Why not take a short diversions to the Roc de Chère nature reserve, where you’ll discover preserved wildlife (salamanders). So don’t hesitate, set off to discover these Savoyard pearls of south-eastern France and let yourself be seduced by their beauty and authenticity.