Annecy Getaway Scenic Drive

The Annecy Getaway Scenic Drive is a 164km road trip through the beautiful French countryside, beginning in Annecy and ending in Aix les Bains. The drive is best experienced during the warmer months when the landscapes are lush and green. Along the way, you will pass through the charming town of Chambery, with its cobbled streets and old stone buildings. The roads are generally in good condition, although there are some curvy and narrow sections. Please note that some roads may be closed due to seasonal weather conditions. This road trip is a great way to get out and explore the region, with plenty of memories to be made. Whether you're a seasoned driver or a first-timer, the Annecy Getaway Scenic Drive is sure to provide a high level of experience. However, please note that this road trip can be managed with a high budget only.

Annecy, located in the Haute-Savoie department in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of southeastern France, is a perfect starting point for the "Annecy Getaway Scenic Drive". The city is situated on the northern shore of Lake Annecy, making it a picturesque place to spend some time before beginning your road trip. The city itself is a captivating destination, with plenty of sights to take in. Don't miss the Palais de l'Isle, an ancient castle that’s now a museum, or the Church of Saint-Maurice, a beautiful old church. Take a stroll through the Old Town, where you'll find plenty of charming cobblestone streets and alleys, perfect for a leisurely afternoon. For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Geneva Airport (IATA code GVA), which is located about an hour away from Annecy. There are several car rental companies located at the airport, making it easy to pick up a car for your road trip. No matter what sights you choose to explore in Annecy, it's sure to be the perfect beginning to your "Annecy Getaway Scenic Drive".

Embark on an amazing 110 km journey from Annecy, France to Chambery and explore the most interesting places along the way. Start your journey in Annecy, a beautiful city surrounded by mountains and filled with canals and bridges. Make sure to visit the old town and take a stroll along the lake. Continue your journey to Talloires, a picturesque village located at the edge of the lake. Make sure to take some time to admire the beautiful views of the lake and the mountains. After that, head to Lac d'Annecy, a stunning lake surrounded by mountains. Take a boat ride to admire the stunning views and take some pictures. Finally, you will arrive in Chambery, a charming city with a rich history. Here, you can visit the old town and the castle. Along the way, make sure to pay attention to the historical sites, picturesque landscapes, and scenic roads. Some sections of the route may be closed seasonally, there will be steep ramps, and in some sections, the road will be narrow and winding. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your trip!

Are you ready for an amazing road trip through Chambery, Chindrieux, and Aix les Bains? This 55 km journey will take you less than two hours, but is packed with interesting sites to explore. Start in Chambery, a charming city filled with history and culture. Visit the Chateau de Chambery, a castle built in the 11th century, and the Musée des Charmettes, the home of Jean-Jacques Rousseau. Then, drive through Chindrieux, a picturesque village with a beautiful river and a historic church. Finally, end your journey in Aix les Bains, a vibrant town with a stunning lake and many cultural attractions. Don't forget to take the scenic route and pay attention to the narrow sections of the road! For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, consult the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your adventure!

Aix-les-Bains, a small town in Savoie, France, is the perfect final destination for the Annecy Getaway Scenic Drive. Located on the southern shore of Lake Bourget, the largest natural lake in France, Aix-les-Bains is known for its thermal springs and beautiful scenery. The thermal springs are a popular attraction, and visitors can take advantage of the healing powers of the hot springs. The town also offers a number of other attractions, such as the Bourget-du-Lac Casino and the Musée Faure, an art museum. The Musée Faure is especially popular, with its collection of paintings by renowned French artists. Other attractions include the beach of Lac du Bourget and the Thonon-les-Bains Promenade, which offers stunning views of the lake. For those traveling by car, Aix-les-Bains is easily accessible from Annecy. The drive is just over an hour, and the route offers beautiful views of the French Alps as you make your way to the town. For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Geneva International Airport (IATA Code GVA). At the end of the Annecy Getaway Scenic Drive, Aix-les-Bains is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the healing powers of the thermal springs. With its many attractions, Aix-les-Bains is the ideal destination for a memorable road trip.

Before you set off

Embark on the Annecy Getaway Scenic Drive, a breathtaking 164km route that takes you from the enchanting town of Annecy to the thermal haven of Aix-les-Bains, offering a visual feast of the French Alps and idyllic countryside.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

• Annecy: This charming town, often called the `Venice of the Alps,` enchants visitors with its beautifully preserved old town, winding canals, and the stunning Lake Annecy, which is known for being one of the cleanest lakes in Europe due to strict environmental regulations.
• Chambéry: A city steeped in history, featuring narrow cobbled streets, colorful facades, and the striking Château de Chambéry with its iconic elephant fountain – a tribute to the 18th-century General de Boigne's adventures in India.
• Aix-les-Bains: Famous for its luxurious thermal spas dating back to Roman times, Aix-les-Bains is also a stone's throw away from Lac du Bourget, France's deepest and largest natural lake, offering a plethora of water sports and leisure activities.

Best Time to Go:

Experience the drive at its best from late spring to early autumn, when the landscape is lush, and the weather is ideal for enjoying outdoor activities and the stunning vistas.

Potential Risks:

• The mountain routes may feature hairpin turns and require a confident driver; familiarity with manual transmission is a plus.
• Inclement weather, especially in the transitional seasons, can affect driving conditions; always check the forecast and plan for alternative routes if necessary.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

• The route traverses the scenic Parc Naturel Régional du Massif des Bauges, a protected area that offers a glimpse of unspoiled alpine ecosystems and traditional Savoyard architecture.
• The drive is a culinary journey as well, with opportunities to savor authentic Savoyard cuisine, including famous local cheeses like Reblochon and Tartiflette.
• Be mindful that this area is a popular destination, so booking accommodations and attractions ahead is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons like summer and winter ski months.

A good choice for:

The Annecy Getaway Scenic Drive is an unforgettable journey, combining natural grandeur with cultural richness. It's an excellent choice for those seeking a blend of relaxation, adventure, and luxury in the heart of the French Alps.