Top 5 of the best bike tours from d'Annecy

With its magnificent lake and mountainous landscapes, Annecy is one of France's most beautiful treasures. It's also - you saw me coming, I know - a treasure trove for cycling enthusiasts, including those who like a quiet ride. Whether you're a hard-core cyclist looking for a sporting challenge, or simply in search of a leisurely ride with family or friends, the region boasts many beautiful and varied cycling circuits.

We've put together a selection of the five best cycling routes from Annecy. To make it up, we've taken 4 criteria into account:

• Distance 🛣 🕞
• Height difference ⛰
• Landscapes 🌄
• Diversity of itineraries 🚲 🚴🏻‍♀️

Source : Grand Annecy

: Approximately 42 km

: Low 🔵

: Annecy - Sevrier - Saint-Jorioz - Duingt - Annecy

: The Lake Annecy loop is truly the I-DÉ-AL circuit for a family ride or for beginner cyclists. The route is mainly flat and entirely cycleable, allowing cyclists to take full advantage of the scenery without getting their thighs in a twist, and while protecting their tender buttocks (yes, that's a big problem for our professional cycling friends!).

: Pure fun for everyone. No doubt about it! This trail skirts the shores of Lake Annecy, offering magnificent views of the sparkling blue water and surrounding mountains.

: Approx. 24 km

: High 🔴

: Annecy - Talloires - Col de la Forclaz

: Watch out, your legs are about to get hot! This circuit is for sportier cyclists looking for a challenge 💪. The Forclaz climb is renowned for its beauty and difficulty. 🏻‍♂️. Indeed, the pass offers breathtaking panoramas of Lake Annecy and the sublime surrounding mountains. And wait, there's the best part: on the way back, you can enjoy a quick, refreshing descent. You'll have plenty of time to relax and make it look like child's play.😌

: Come on, we believe in you! Plus, the scenery is so incredible it gives you strength, doesn't it? 🚵

: Approx. 70 km

: Medium 🟡

: Annecy - Quintal - Montagny-les-Lanches - Col de Leschaux - Semnoz - Annecy

: It's dry climbing and it's who's who, right 🗻? This circuit combines hilly sections with a more demanding climb to the Col de Leschaux and the Semnoz. Cyclists, don't despair. You'll be rewarded 1,000 times over with panoramic views from the summit of Semnoz, at an altitude of around 1,700 meters.

: Well, let's be clear. It's best to be in good physical condition for this excursion 🏋️‍♀️.

Ouups! Well, we couldn't find a photo, but we'll try to make you drool with our pen 🪶

: Variable (several routes possible)

: Variable

: Annecy - Faverges - Ugine - Albertville (and back 🔙)

: The Bauges, a mountain range located near Annecy, offers numerous possibilities for cycling itineraries. Cyclists can choose from a variety of circuits, depending on their level of fitness and preferences. Crossing the Bauges to Albertville is a popular option, offering breathtaking scenery and quiet roads.

: Are you looking for a sporty getaway that puts you to the test a little, while offering you moments of respite while admiring the scenery? Here's an itinerary that should please you.

_Ouups! Well,still no royalty-free photos but you know Google Image I guess 🤓 _

: approx. 25 km

: High 🔴

: Annecy - Menthon-Saint-Bernard - Mont Veyrier - Annecy

: If this tour had to be summed up in one phase, it would be this one: "after effort, comfort!". 😅 What a pleasure it will be to contemplate the panoramic view over Annecy when you've finished your ascent! But, on arrival, it offers an absolutely breathtaking view of Lake Annecy from the summit. Bonus: the technical descent is a real treat for mountain bikers. Make sure you're well-equipped and have a good command of downhill techniques before embarking on this trail.

: This tour is for experienced cyclists looking for a technical and physical challenge: the climb up Mont Veyrier is steep and quite demanding. Plan to ask your partner(s) for a leg massage at the end 🤣.

How do you prepare to climb your 1st mountain pass?

Do you need a full-body suit like the gentleman to climb a mountain pass? Spoiler: NO, but you do need a bit of training 🤓

But how do you prepare for this little adventure, and in particular for climbing your first mountain pass on a bike? In reality, it requires both physical and mental preparation. First of all, it's important to train regularly and gradually increase the duration and intensity of your sessions.

Try, as far as possible, to include climbs on your bike rides, to accustom your body to the effort and develop the necessary muscle strength. It's also very important to work on your endurance, with long, regular outings.

But it's not all about physical training. At the same time, you need to be aware of what this kind of effort requires: eating well, staying properly hydrated before, during and after the effort. Mind you, you don't have to be a pro cyclist and go commando. But one thing's for sure: a balanced diet rich in complex carbohydrates will help recharge energy reserves, and drinking enough is essential when you're putting in a big physical effort, whatever it may be 💦.

Finally, if you've never done this kind of effort and you're not very sporty, you also need to spend some time preparing yourself mentally. To do this, remember to visualize the climb, set yourself realistic goals and concentrate on your breathing and heart rate during the ascent. With the right preparation, that first mountain pass can be an exciting and rewarding challenge.

What equipment is essential for a bike outing?

When preparing for a bike outing, it's essential to have the right equipment to ensure your safety and comfort. Here's a short list of essential equipment:

First of first, sorry to repeat it like a broken record, but a bicycle helmet is an essential item to protect your head in the event of a fall. Appropriate clothing is also recommended, such as a lightweight, breathable cycling jersey, padded shorts for comfort (yes, your butt will hurt), and gloves to improve grip and protect hands in the event of a fall. A pair of sunglasses is also super useful to protect your eyes from UV rays, wind and insects (gross and hyper-dangerous when they get in your eyes).

👉 To find out about the 10 essential items of equipment for bike hire

Don't forget to choose suitable shoes with compatible pedals for better power transmission and increased stability. Another essential accessory: a repair kit with basic tools, a spare inner tube, a pump and a patch kit to deal with any punctures.

Last but not least, a water bottle or insulated flask is essential to stay hydrated during the effort. With the right equipment, you'll be able to enjoy your cycling outings in complete safety.

In conclusion

As you can see, whether you're a seasoned cyclist looking for a sporting challenge or a lover of leisurely rides, the Annecy region offers a multitude of cycling itineraries to suit all levels. Don't forget to check local conditions, hire bikes if necessary and respect safety rules.

Get ready to marvel at Savoie's stunning scenery as you pedal your way through these exciting circuits.😍