Nestled in the French Alps, Annecy will charm its way into
the hearts of even the most jaded travelers. Less than two hours away from
Geneva, it is a popular day trip for tourists visiting the Swiss town. Perched
on the northern edge of Lac d’ Annecy, the town is crisscrossed by a network of
canals and streams, thus earning itself the tag, “Venice of Savoie”.
Indulge the romantic in you by strolling hand in hand with
your paramour by the impossibly azure waters of lake Annecy or crossing the
Pont des Amours (lovers bridge) situated at the edge of the lake.
Wander around the charming Vieille Vile (old town) surrounded
by pastel coloured houses bedecked with lego windows and flower pots.
Stoke the historian in you with a visit to Palais
de l'Isle. Appearing as a ship stranded in the middle of the waters of the
Thiou, the Isle Palace has a long history, having served as the first residence
of the Lord of Annecy from the 12th century onwards to being the
administrative centre for the Counts of Geneva and finally a prison until 1965.
The former castle today houses a local history museum. The Annecy Chateau, built
between the 12th and the 16th century, situated on a hill
overlooking the city and its surroundings, is also well worth a visit.
Stop by one of the multitude
restaurants lining the Thiou canal and sample the gastronomical delights that
the city has to offer. No trip to Annecy is complete without dipping into the
heavenly Savoyarde fondue.