I will be travelling solo for this portion of my trip as I will be meeting my daughter in Chamonix before we hike the Tour du Mont Blanc. I have reserved a two night stay in Annecy in late August, but wondered if folks thought this might be too much time there?
I would arrive by bus late morning on 8/30 and depart early on 9/1. From the RS guidebook, this does not feel too long but welcome thoughts from those that have been there as well.
Thank you!
I am also doing the Tour du Mont Blanc, starting Sept. 1. Our plans have changed but I was also looking at taking in Annecy. Judging from the guidebook, you can always find things to do. It looks like an incredibly cute and fun place. So it then depends on your energy level and time before moving on to your next destination. Are you someone that has to be "on the go" all the time and tick off as many sites as you can, or do you want to stroll though shops, sit in cafes enjoying the coffee, and people watching? My wife and I like to do some of both, so I don't think two nights is too much at all. Good luck on the TMB and enjoy whatever you decide.
We spent 4 nights there last May. We luckily had a lovely little apartment overlooking the central canal with a charming view. There is nothing much to do in Annecy -- but it is beautiful. We very much enjoyed strolling, took a boat trip on the lake but mostly just enjoyed the ambience. We did a day trip to Chamonix to do the Aguille du Midi.
I don't think 2 nights is too long especially if you enjoy taking pictures, but it is a place primarily to enjoy 'seeing' rather than doing things. In August when it is hot, there will be many options for enjoying the lake including HOHO boats (not running in May) and rental pedal boats and smaller boat excursions. There is hiking in the area.
We also rented bikes in Annecy since there’s a nice bike route along part of the lake.
It can get surprisingly (to me) hot in Annecy in the summer. Be sure your lodgings are air conditioned.
I think 2 nights in Annecy would be right for many--maybe most--visitors. It is very pretty, but the town gets mobbed by day trippers, all packed into the lovely but not large historic center. I recommend a boat trip on the lake and maybe a bike ride if the heat isn't too oppressive.
Can anyone recommend a hotel in Annecy for a solo female?
I recommend a parasail from near Talloires (not that I have done it, but have watched it plenty) and the river cruise around the lake. It is an amazingly beautiful area!
Good restos in Talloires (but also good raclette/fondue up the mountain/s where the paragliders are...). Not that you will lack for fun and food in Annecy....
A stay in Talloires at a place w/ lake access is magical, too.
Have a great time!
Two nights are just enough. We were there in October. Bring a sweater if you do the lake tour. Try to walk out of the Old Town a bit. . . It’s easier to find a less-touristy eatery. We enjoyed the Hotel du Chatteau. Not luxurious but comfortable. Third generation family owners on site. Very safe.
I agree with acraven. Be prepared for muggy heat and consider a boat ride. If you are there on a Sunday they have an antiques market.
We reserved the cheapest room in the Imperial Palace about five years ago. They upgraded our room to a beautiful one on the side of the hotel with a huge balcony with views of the lake. Besides that nice surprise, we really enjoyed the quietness of the location which was still very close to walk the park promenade along the water to the downtown shops.
