Top 5 bike tours from Annecy

6 min

On 17 Jul 2023 by Frédérique Josse

Top 5 bike tours from Annecy

The article in a nutshell

The tour of the lake, we've got that right. When we talk about Annecy, it's the route that most locals and fans of this little Venice of the Alps think of. But nonsense!

There are plenty of other bike tours to discover all the 1001 faces of Annecy.

Are you ready? Zé partiiiiii 🚀🚲

Summary

We've found the 5 best bike tours in Annecy 🤩

With its magnificent lake and mountainous landscapes, [Annecy](<https://www.lokki.rent/media/tour-du-lac-annecy-velo-itineraires-conseils>) 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. We've taken 4 criteria into account: - Distance 🛣 🕞 - Height difference ⛰ - Landscapes 🌄 - Diversity of itineraries 🚲 🚴🏻‍♀️ <br/> ![Carte Annecy - Source : Grand Annecy](https://bucket-prod.getlokki.com/Carte_Annecy_Source_Grand_Annecy_ea996ccf34.png?format=webp&width=1200&quality=80) Source : [Grand Annecy](<https://www.annecy.fr/48-a-velo.htm>)

The Lake Annecy Loop 🔂, to take in the sights without breaking your legs.

![Jeune homme à bonnet devant le lac d'annecy - Photo Libre de droit](https://bucket-prod.getlokki.com/Jeune_homme_a_bonnet_devant_le_lac_d_annecy_Photo_Libre_de_droit_f105c56e36.jpeg?format=webp&width=1200&quality=80) <u>Distance</u> : Approx. 42 km <u>Elevation gain</u> : Low 🔵 <u>Itinerary</u> : Annecy - Sevrier - Saint-Jorioz - Duingt - Annecy <u>Description</u> : The Lake Annecy loop is really the I-DÉ-AL circuit for a family outing 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 out of shape, and while protecting their tender buttocks (yes, that's a big problem for our friends the cycling pros!) <u>The Lokki team's opinion</u> : A real treat 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.

The Forclaz climb, for a sporting challenge and a breathtaking panorama

![annecy - montée de forclaz.jpeg](https://bucket-prod.getlokki.com/annecy_montee_de_forclaz_55c19421e8.jpeg?format=webp&width=1200&quality=80) <u>Distance</u> : Approx. 24 km <u>Elevation gain</u> : High 🔴 <u>Itinerary</u> : Annecy - Talloires - Col de la Forclaz <u>Description</u> : Watch out, the legs will start to heat up! This tour 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.😌 <u>The Lokki team's opinion </u> : Come on, we believe in you! Besides, the scenery is so incredible it gives you strength, no? 🚵

The Tour du Semnoz, for a sporting and poetic getaway

![Tour du semmnoz - annecy - Photo Libre de Droit](https://bucket-prod.getlokki.com/Tour_du_semmnoz_annecy_Photo_Libre_de_Droit_4783916c34.jpeg?format=webp&width=1200&quality=80) <u>Distance</u> : Approx. 70 km <u>Elevation gain</u> : Medium 🟡 <u>Itinerary</u> : Annecy - Quintal - Montagny-les-Lanches - Col de Leschaux - Semnoz - Annecy <u>Description</u> : It's a dry climb and it's that good, no 🗻? This tour 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. <u>The Lokki team's opinion</u> : Well, let's be clear. It's best to be in good physical condition for this excursion 🏋️‍♀️.

Crossing the Bauges, for a breathtaking outing

*Ouups! Well, we couldn't find a photo, but we'll try to make you drool with our pen 🪶* <u>Distance</u> : Variable (several itineraries possible) <u>Elevation gain</u> : Variable <u>Itinerary</u> : Annecy - Faverges - Ugine - Albertville (and back 🔙) <u>Description</u> : The Bauges, a mountainous massif close to Annecy, offers numerous possibilities for cycling. Cyclists can choose from a variety of routes, depending on their level of fitness and preferences. Crossing the Bauges to Albertville is a popular option, offering breathtaking scenery and quiet roads. <u>The Lokki team's opinion </u> : 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.

The Veyrier climb, for a 360-degree view of Annecy

\_Ouups! Well, still no royalty-free photos, but I guess you know Google Image 🤓 \_ <u>Distance</u> : approx. 25 km <u>Elevation gain</u> : High 🔴 <u>Itinerary</u> : Annecy - Menthon-Saint-Bernard - Mont Veyrier - Annecy <u>Description</u> : If this tour had to be summed up in one phase, it would be this one: "after the effort, the 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 route. <u>The Lokki team's opinion </u> : This tour is for experienced cyclists looking for a technical and physical challenge: the ascent of Mont Veyrier is steep and quite demanding. Plan to ask your partner(s) for a leg massage at the end 🤣.

Before getting started, we answer your questions ❓

### How do you prepare to climb your 1st mountain pass? ![fauti-il une combinaison pour monter un col .jpeg](https://bucket-prod.getlokki.com/fauti_il_une_combinaison_pour_monter_un_col_2ba1826863.jpeg?format=webp&width=1200&quality=80) 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 by 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, hydrating properly 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, the first mountain pass on a bike can be an exciting and rewarding challenge. ### What equipment is essential for a bike outing? ![Equipements à Vélo - Cycliste à maillot Orange](https://bucket-prod.getlokki.com/Equipements_a_Velo_Cycliste_a_maillot_Orange_fa03794196.jpg?format=webp&width=1200&quality=80) 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 cycling 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 must-have items for bike rental ](<https://www.lokki.rent/fr/media/accessoires-indispensables-location-velo>) Remember to choose the right 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. ### To conclude 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 suitable for 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.😍
Annecy la belle

Annecy la belle

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About Frédérique Josse

Every day, I try to understand how the circular economy, sustainable tourism and consumerism are evolving. As a trained journalist, I keep a close eye on the latest trends for you!
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