Exploring Annecy: A Charming French Town

Sightseeing in Annecy

1. Annecy Old Town (Vieille Ville)

• Stroll through the narrow streets of the old town, lined with colorful buildings dating back to the Middle Ages.
• Visit the Palais de l'Isle, a medieval castle that has served as a prison and now houses a museum showcasing the town's history.

2. Lake Annecy (Lac d'Annecy)

• Relax by the pristine waters of Lake Annecy, often described as the cleanest lake in Europe.
• Take a boat cruise to admire the stunning scenery and views of the surrounding mountains.

3. Château d'Annecy

• Explore the Château d'Annecy, a restored castle overlooking the town, which now houses the Annecy Castle Museum.

4. Pont des Amours

• Walk along the Pont des Amours (Bridge of Love), a picturesque bridge over the Canal du Vasse, offering beautiful views of the water and surrounding area.

5. Jardins de l'Europe

• Relax in the Jardins de l'Europe, a lovely park located along the lake, with manicured gardens and stunning views.

A Brief History of Annecy

Annecy has a rich history dating back to Roman times when it was known as "Anneciacum." It later became the capital of the County of Geneva in the 10th century. The town grew in importance during the Middle Ages and became a center of the arts and intellectual life in the region.

In the 16th century, Annecy became part of the Kingdom of France and was later ruled by the House of Savoy. It became known for its thriving textile industry and was an important center for the production of silk.

Today, Annecy is a vibrant town that has preserved its historic charm while offering modern amenities and attractions for visitors to enjoy.

Hidden Gems of Annecy

1. Conservatoire Art et Histoire

• Visit the Conservatoire Art et Histoire, a hidden gem of a museum housed in a former convent, featuring an impressive collection of religious art and artifacts.

2. Les Gorges du Fier

• Explore Les Gorges du Fier, a stunning gorge located just outside Annecy, with narrow pathways carved into the rock offering breathtaking views.

3. Mont Veyrier

• Hike up Mont Veyrier for panoramic views of Annecy and the surrounding area, including the lake and the Alps.

4. Vieugy Castle

• Discover Vieugy Castle, a hidden gem located on the outskirts of Annecy, offering a glimpse into the region's medieval history.

5. Local Markets

• Explore the local markets in Annecy, such as the Sunday market in the old town, where you can sample local produce and delicacies.

Annecy is a charming town that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, history, and culture. Whether you're exploring its historic streets, relaxing by the lake, or discovering its hidden gems, Annecy is sure to captivate you with its beauty and charm.

ere are some dishes that are special to Annecy, along with recipes for you to try at home:

1. Tartiflette: A hearty dish made with potatoes, reblochon cheese, lardons (bacon), onions, and white wine. It's a comforting meal that's perfect for cold winter evenings.

   Recipe:

   • Peel and slice 1 kg of potatoes and boil them until they are just tender. Drain and set aside.
   • In a large pan, fry 200g of lardons until they are golden and crispy. Add 2 sliced onions and cook until they are soft.
   • Add the cooked potatoes to the pan and pour over 200ml of white wine. Cook for a few minutes until the wine has reduced slightly.
   • Cut a reblochon cheese in half horizontally and place it on top of the potato mixture, rind side up. Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

2. Diots au Vin Blanc: Savoyard sausages cooked in white wine, often served with polenta or potatoes. The sausages are flavored with spices like nutmeg and cloves, giving them a unique taste.

   Recipe:

   • In a large pan, brown 1 kg of diots (Savoyard sausages) in a little oil.
   • Add 2 sliced onions, 2 cloves of garlic (minced), and cook until the onions are soft.
   • Pour in 500ml of white wine and add a pinch of nutmeg and cloves. Simmer gently for about 30 minutes, or until the sausages are cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.

3. Ravioles du Dauphiné: Small squares of pasta filled with cheese (usually Comté, Emmental, or Tomme) and herbs, served with a creamy sauce. These are similar to Italian ravioli but are smaller in size.

   Recipe:

   • Make a pasta dough by mixing 200g of flour, 2 eggs, and a pinch of salt. Knead until smooth, then roll out thinly.
   • Cut the dough into small squares and place a small amount of cheese filling in the center of each square. Fold the squares in half to form a triangle and press the edges to seal.
   • Cook the ravioles in boiling salted water for 2-3 minutes, or until they float to the surface. Drain and set aside.
   • For the sauce, heat 200ml of cream in a pan and add grated cheese to taste. Stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth. Serve the ravioles with the sauce poured over the top.

These dishes are just a taste of the delicious cuisine you can enjoy in Annecy. The combination of hearty ingredients and traditional cooking techniques makes these dishes truly special to the region.