Cycling Lake Annecy: Map, Guide & Best Bike Rental for Families

Lake Annecy Bike Rental

Article also available in French here

Cycling around Lake Annecy is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful bike rides in France. Between turquoise waters and majestic mountains, the famous "Voie Verte" (Greenway) offers an exceptional panorama. But before you start, a few questions arise: how long does it take? What is the itinerary? And above all, where to rent the perfect bike, especially if you are traveling with your family or a dog? In this practical guide, we give you all the tips (including the locals' best-kept secret to avoid traffic jams) for a successful tour of the lake.

1. Distance and time: what to expect?

The full tour of Lake Annecy is a loop of about 40 to 42 kilometers (25-26 miles).

• Difficulty: Easy. The route is 90% flat, mostly on a safe bike path (the Voie Verte) completely separated from cars.
• The only challenge: The famous Talloires hill on the East bank, which climbs a bit for about 2 km (but with an electric bike, it's a breeze!).
• Riding time: Count on 1.5 to 2 hours for sporty riders, and between 2.5 and 3.5 hours for a leisurely family ride. Our tip: plan a half-day or a full day to enjoy the beaches, take photo breaks, and have a picnic.

2. Map and Itinerary: West Bank vs. East Bank

The route is divided into two different atmospheres:

• The West Bank (from Annecy to Doussard via Saint-Jorioz): This is the true Voie Verte. A former railway line, completely safe, flat, and ideal for children and cargo bikes. You will pass through Sevrier, Saint-Jorioz, and Duingt (with its magnificent castle).
• The East Bank (from Doussard to Annecy via Talloires): Wilder and more hilly. You will ride partly on bike lanes along the road shared with cars. This is where you'll find the famous Talloires hill offering a plunging view of the lake.

Recommended direction: It is generally recommended to do the tour clockwise (Saint-Jorioz > Sevrier > Annecy > Veyrier > Talloires > Doussard > Saint-Jorioz). Not only will you pedal closer to the water on the East bank, but you will save the best for last with the most sumptuous landscapes of the lake.

3. The locals' secret: escape the Annecy traffic jams!

It's the number 1 mistake tourists make: trying to rent a bike right in the city center of Annecy. In summer, finding a parking spot there is a miracle, and starting your ride in the middle of the crowd is not relaxing.

The trick? Start your loop from the West Bank, for example in Saint-Jorioz!

At Eco Triporteur (located in Saint-Jorioz), we offer a major advantage:

• Immediate and direct access to the bike path (without crossing any cars).
• A quiet environment, perfect for getting used to your bike.
• Ideal for holidaymakers staying in Sevrier, Saint-Jorioz, Duingt, or Doussard: no need to face the city center traffic.

4. Which bike to choose? The Cargo Trike option for Family and Dogs

While the classic city bike is popular, the lake tour takes on a whole new dimension with the right equipment, especially if you are not alone! Touring Lake Annecy in an electric cargo trike offers the opportunity to share this magic with your loved ones, effortlessly and safely.

Safety and Comfort for children

For families, forget the hard-to-pull trailer. Opt for the cargo bike! Children are comfortably seated at the front in a spacious wooden box, with sturdy seatbelts. They enjoy a 180° view of the landscape while you let the power of the electric assistance carry you. This assistance turns the Talloires hill into a mere formality!

Your dog can tour the lake too!

Mobility for all also includes our four-legged friends! Our rental service is specially designed to welcome dogs. Imagine the joy in your faithful companion's eyes as they enjoy the wind in their ears. It's the ideal solution so you never have to leave your dog at home.

Book my e-bike or cargo bike

5. Our 3 practical tips before departure

• Book in advance: In July and August, bikes (and particularly family models like cargo bikes) are in very high demand.
• Bring the right gear: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and plenty of water. There are regular water fountains along the path (especially at the old train stations, like the one in Saint-Jorioz).
• Don't forget your swimsuit: The beaches of Doussard, Saint-Jorioz, or Marquisats are perfect refreshing stops!