Nestling between lake and mountains, Annecy isn't just an Alpine picture postcard: it's a veritable playground for thrill-seekers. Whether you're an adrenalin junkie or simply keen to push your limits, the region is packed with breathtaking sporting activities. From paragliding over turquoise waters, to canyoning in the wilderness, to mountain biking on the peaks, each discipline promises a unique adrenalin rush.
In this article, discover the best thrilling things to do in Annecy For a weekend or during your holiday, from the most airy to the most aquatic, enjoy an unforgettable stay in the heart of Haute-Savoie.
Air sports in Annecy: take to the skies on a first flight
Paragliding
The first paragliding experience is Lake Annecy's star attraction. Flying schools offer first flights from the top of the Col de la Forclaz or Planfait almost all year round. You'll take off facing the lake and soar through breathtaking scenery with the emerald-green lake beneath your feet. There is a wide range of packages on offer, and many service providers can be found both in Talloires and at the end of the lake in Doussard. But be warned, places are expensive in high season, so it's best to book in advance to be sure of flying when you come to the region.
All you need to know about tandem paragliding flights with the Grands Espacess. Interested? Do not hesitate to book now !
Hang-gliding
Are you hesitating between a paragliding flight and a first hang-gliding flight in Annecy ? Why not try hang-gliding for a different thrill? Paragliding may have eclipsed hang-gliding in recent years, but in Annecy it's still possible to get a thrill from launching yourself off the Col de la Forclaz ski jump and gliding along, head first, like a bird. Treat yourself. But again, book your flight well in advance, especially if you're coming in July or August.
In a hot-air balloon
Thrills aren't really your cup of tea and you're looking for a gentle way to soar through the air? Then why not try hot-air ballooning. It's an experience that's very accessible physically and gives you a unique view of the Bauges, Aravis and Mont Blanc ranges.
For more information, click here:
Hot-air balloons on Lake Annecy
Sensational water sports on Lake Annecy
Kitesurfing
Very limited in July and August due to the crowds on the lake, kitesurfing is possible all year round, subject to the regulations in force. The lifting zones are fairly restricted and the lake breeze is quick to make itself felt. So it's best to be experienced to kite on Lake Annecy.
Lifting zones :
- Plage d'Albigny ;
- Sevrier and Saint-Jorioz (several zones) ;
- Doussard beach.
More information on the Annecy website >>
Wakeboarding :
Wakeboarding and wakesurfing can be practised all year round in authorised areas. Companies such as wakeraena or skiwake74 offer services in high and mid-season from April to October, either on the Annecy town side or on the Doussard end of the lake side. You can even take lessons if you want to progress throughout your stay.
Stand Up Paddle :
SUP is practised almost everywhere around Lake Annecy. The sport is easy and accessible, and can be practised simply by standing on the board when you're comfortable, or kneeling if you're unsteady at first. All you have to do is paddle forward. The only regulatory constraint is to stay on the shoreline without passing the yellow buoys.
Beware of the lake breeze in the late afternoon. On a SUP, it can be very difficult to get upwind in a breeze.
Sailing a monohull or catamaran
Even though Lake Annecy is in Haute-Savoie, there are plenty of sailing clubs, just like on the ocean coast. Whether you're in Doussard, Duingt, Sevrier or Annecy itself, you're bound to find a sailing club nearby.
Some interesting addresses for sailing on the lake:
Mountain thrills around Annecy
Breathtaking aerial tours
Put on your best hiking boots and set off to conquer La Tournette at an altitude of 2351 metres. Once you're up there, you'll have a 360° panoramic view of the whole of Haute Savoie and Mont Blanc. A great day hike from the Chalet de l'Aulp or, for the more sporty, from the shores of the lake!
Acrobranche
Climb the trees and defy your fear of heights and heights on an accrobranche outing with friends or family on one of the many courses available. This activity can be enjoyed either at Planfait, right next to the paraglider take-off point, or at Quintal on the Semnoz side.
To find out more, click here:
From the via-ferrata
Fancy something a little more challenging than accrobranche? Then don your harness and gloves and set off on an adventure on one of the region's via ferratas. On the programme: bar, monkey bridge, Nepalese bridge, zip line and, above all, a magical view of the region. Guaranteed to push you to the limit!
Useful addresses :
- Via Ferrata La Roche à l'Agathe in Thônes
- Via-Ferrata Roc&Rol's
- Via Ferrata Yves Pollet-Villard in La Clusaz
- Via Ferrata A Tour du Jallouvre in Le Grand-Bornand
Practical advice to make the most of your thrilling activities in Annecy
Before you embark on your adventure, a few precautions and tips can make all the difference to an intense... but successful sporting experience!
✅ Choosing the right season
Annecy offers thrilling activities all year round, but certain periods are more favourable depending on the discipline:
- Spring / summer (May to September) Ideal for water sports (canyoning, wakeboarding, paddleboarding, water skiing) and aerial sports such as paragliding and paragliding. paragliding over Lake Annecy.
- Autumn Perfect for sporting hikes and via ferrata with fewer crowds.
- Winter Although the lake is quieter, the mountains take over with ski touring.
👕 Providing the right equipment
Many activities are supervised by professionals who supply the equipment (wetsuit, harness, helmet, etc.). However, remember to :
- From sports shoes with good grip (for canyoning, via ferrata, mountain biking, trail running)
- A swimming costume and microfibre towel (aquatic activities)
- From breathable technical clothing adapted to weather conditions
- A sun protection (even at altitude or on the water)
📆 Book in advance
Some popular activities such as paragliding or canyoning at Angon can be fully booked several days in advance, especially in summer. Book online with local service providers or tourist offices to guarantee your place and take advantage of the best time slots (mornings for peace and quiet and soft lighting).
🧑🏫 Working with professionals
Although some disciplines can be tempting to practise on your own, it is strongly recommended that you use the services of qualified guides or instructors:
- For your security
- For a better knowledge of spots (orientation, local weather)
- And to make the most of it without managing the logistics
Annecy is packed with serious facilities offering supervised sporting activitiesfor all levels, from beginner to expert.
⚠️ Know your limits and the level required for each activity
Some activities require a good level of physical fitness or particular ease (e.g. technical canyoning, aerial via ferrata, caving). Don't hesitate to ask questions before booking, or to start with a "discovery" or "initiation" version.
💡 Bonus tips
- Think about outdoor activity insurance (often included with sports or bank cards)
- Hydrate wellespecially at altitude or in very hot weather
- Take a GoPro or an on-board camera to immortalise your exploits... or opt for the videos offered by some instructors!
Frequently Asked Questions :
What sensational things to do as a couple in Annecy?
Tandem paragliding flight over Lake Annecy
- Why it's perfect as a couple You each take off with an instructor, fly side by side and share a suspended, romantic and vertiginous moment.
- Bonus: some offers include souvenir photos/videos and sunset flights.
Canyoning in the Angon or Montmin gorges
- Crossing waterfalls, abseiling, jumping into pools... it's a fun and refreshing challenge for two.
- Sensation + mutual support = the perfect combo for sporty couples.
Tandem skydiving (near Annecy)
- For lovers of pure adrenalin! Accompanied by a professional, you'll each jump a few minutes apart and then share the thrill together.
- Something to do at least once in your life (and even better if you're a couple!).
A romantic walk... on a via ferrata!
- The via ferrata at de Thônes or Le Grand Bornand offers a route with breathtaking views of the mountains.
What unusual things can you do in Annecy?
- A night's sleep on a cliff suspended in the air above Lake Annecy. Find out more >>
- Flying microlights with birds.
