Lake Annecy, renowned for its purity and natural beauty, is a top destination for swimming enthusiasts. Surrounded by majestic mountains and picturesque villages, it offers many public beaches ideal for cooling off in the summer. Here’s a complete guide to the best swimming spots, water temperatures, and practical tips for a safe and enjoyable swim.
Whether you’re with family, as a couple, or with friends, here’s a practical guide to where to swim in Annecy, the water temperature, and useful tips to make the most of your summer.
The best beaches around lake Annecy
1. Marquisats Beach (Annecy)
Located just a few minutes’ walk from the city center, this grassy, supervised beach is perfect for those who want to combine swimming with exploring the old town.
- ✅ Free acess
- 🚿 Showers and restrooms
- 🧺 Large picnic area
- 🫶 Just a few minutes’ walk from the Pont des Amours and the boarding pier for a cruise on board a wooden boat
2. Albigny beach (Annecy-le-Vieux)
Probably the most popular, featuring a vast grassy area, stunning mountain views, and direct access to several restaurants.
- ✅ perfect for families
- 🍦 Snacks and ice-creams nearby
- 🛶 Pedal boat and paddleboard rentals
3. Talloires beach
A quieter and more upscale atmosphere. This charming beach, surrounded by mountains, is perfect for a relaxing day or a romantic picnic.
- 💶 Entrance fee during the season (€2–3)
- 🌲 Shaded areas
- 🛥️ Easily accessible from our private cruises
4. Saint-Jorioz beach
Less crowded, this supervised sandy beach offers a great swimming area, playgrounds for children, and breathtaking views of the Bauges mountains.
- 👨👩👧👦 Family-friendly atmosphere
- 🌅 Stunning sunsets
- 🚘 Spacious parking lot
5. Doussard beach
Located at the southern tip of the lake, Doussard Beach is a true haven of peace. Less touristy than the beaches in Annecy, it offers a natural setting with a beautiful shaded lawn, a supervised swimming area, and direct access to the Bout du Lac Nature Reserve.
- 🌿 Perfect for nature lovers
- 🚣♀️ Water activities and starting point for walks
- 🧘♀️ Peaceful and family-friendly atmosphere
There are still plenty more beaches to discover around the lake!
👉 More just ici
Water Temperature of Lake Annecy
Lake Annecy is renowned for its exceptional purity. Thanks to continuous ecological monitoring, the water quality is consistently excellent. Here is an estimate of the water temperature throughout the seasons:
| Month | Average temperature 🌡 |
|---|---|
| April | 10–13 °C |
| May | 14–17 °C |
| June | 18–22 °C |
| July | 22–25 °C |
| August | 22–25 °C |
| September | 18–21 °C |
💡Tip: The best time for a pleasant swim is from mid-June to early September..
Practical tips for safe swimming
- Choose supervised beaches during the summer, especially when swimming with children.
- Protect yourself from the sun: sunscreen, a hat, and staying hydrated are essential.
- Respect nature: Lake Annecy is fragile. Don’t leave any waste and avoid using polluting sunscreens.
- Be cautious after storms: the water can become murky or suddenly cooler.
- Consider boating: some quieter areas (like near Roc de Chère or Saint-Jorioz) are only accessible by boat, offering a more secluded and natural swimming experience.
Discover lake Annecy differently with Green Water Annecy
Although swimming is not allowed from our boats during group cruises (for safety reasons), Green Water Annecy offers you a unique way to discover the lake’s treasures. On board our elegant, 100% electric wooden boats, you can:
- Explore iconic lake landscapes such as Roc de Chère, Talloires Bay, and Duingt Castle.
- Enjoy a quiet and eco-friendly cruise that respects the environment.
- You can also book a private cruise—perfect for spending quality time with family and friends or celebrating a special event.