Cycling routes around Lake Annecy
Cycling routes around Lake Annecy
A secure lakeside greenway, legendary Alpine passes, forest single-tracks: Annecy is a cyclist's paradise. Here are our finest routes, with distance, elevation and the ideal bike for each.
From our shop at 23 faubourg Sainte-Claire in Annecy, you're just steps from the greenway. Whether you're after an easy family ride or a mountain pass, pick your route by level — and the bike to match.
🟢Family & easy-going
Flat, secure and stunning scenery: perfect for beginners or riding with children.
The lake loop on the greenway
The classic. Nearly 38 km on a paved, secure greenway between Annecy, Sevrier, Doussard and Veyrier. Flat, suitable for all, with countless swimming and picnic spots.
Rent a city or e-bike →The greenway from Annecy (there & back)
A perfect first ride: from Annecy along the Marquisats to Sevrier or Saint-Jorioz, then back. Short, flat and scenic — ideal with a child trailer.
Kids' bikes & trailers →
🟠Sporty: the passes around Annecy
Annecy has 18 cols within reach. Here are the must-ride climbs for legs that love to grind.
The lake loop via the Col de la Forclaz
The muscular version of the loop: leave the greenway to climb the Col de la Forclaz (~9 km, sections above 10%) and its iconic paragliding view over the lake.
Rent a road bike →The Mont Semnoz climb
The local giant (1,660 m), often compared to Tour de France climbs: 20 km at 7% average from Annecy. A powerful e-bike makes all the difference here.
Try it on an e-bike →
🔴MTB & mountain
Single-tracks, alpine pastures and big loops: time for mountain biking, ideally electric to link up the summits.
Chalet de l'Aulp from Annecy
A big loop towards the Tournette cirque and its mountain chalet. Demanding climbs rewarded with breathtaking panoramas. An e-MTB makes all the difference.
Rent an e-MTB →The Semnoz MTB loop
The Semnoz massif on the trails: forests, ridges and playful descents above the lake. A committing outing for fit riders, sublime at sunrise.
Full-suspension e-MTB →📊Route comparison
| Route | Distance | Elevation + | Level | Recommended bike |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lake loop (greenway) | ~40 km | +250 m | 🟢 Easy | City · E-bike · Kids |
| Greenway from Annecy (return) | ~20 km | +60 m | 🟢 Very easy | City · E-bike |
| Lake loop via the Forclaz | ~49 km | +720 m | 🟠 Sporty | Road · E-bike |
| Mont Semnoz from Annecy | ~20 km | +1,350 m | 🔴 Hard | Road · E-bike |
| Chalet de l'Aulp | ~52 km | +1,309 m | 🔴 Hard | E-MTB |
| Semnoz MTB loop | ~51 km | +1,220 m | 🔴 Hard | E-MTB |
💡Our tips for cycling in Annecy
Ride the loop clockwise
Take the lake loop clockwise: you ride the quieter shore and keep an open view over the water.
Start early in summer
From July to August the greenway gets busy midday. Before 9am you get cool air and the path to yourself.
An e-bike for the passes
Forclaz, Semnoz… the climbs are serious. An electric bike puts these summits within everyone's reach.
Shared path = stay alert
The greenway is shared with pedestrians and rollers. Keep right, announce when passing, slow down.
❓Frequently asked questions
How long is the Lake Annecy bike loop?
About 40 km in total, including nearly 38 km on a secure greenway, with modest elevation of around 250 m. Allow 2.5 to 3.5 hours at an easy pace, less on an e-bike.
Can you cycle around the lake with children?
Yes — the greenway is flat and car-free, perfect with kids, with kids' bikes, seats and trailers available.
Which bike to climb the Forclaz or Semnoz?
A carbon road bike if you're fit, or a powerful e-bike to handle the elevation (up to +1,350 m for the Semnoz).
When is the best time to cycle in Annecy?
April to October. Spring and autumn offer quiet roads and ideal conditions; in summer, set off early.
Ready to hit the road?
Pick your route, we'll handle the bike. Book online in a few clicks and collect your bike in central Annecy.
Book my bikeRoute data based on Annecy Mountains, Haute-Savoie Tourisme and field surveys. Distances and elevations are indicative.