Cycle the French Alps: Annecy, Allemont & Aix-les-Bains - 7 Days

Highlights

• Cycle the shores of beautiful Lac d'Annecy before indulging in French pastries
• Ride through Alpine forests and villages of the mountain pass, Le Col de Forclaz
• See views of Mont Blanc as you tackle the dramatic beauty of the Aravis mountains
• Rejuvenate and refresh your muscles in a relaxing spa massage in Annecy
• Conquer 21 switchbacks as you climb L'Alpe d'Huez's Tour de France stages

Brief Itinerary

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Geneva (Switzerland), Drive to Annecy (France), Explore

Touch down in Geneva (Switzerland), pick up your rental car, and drive about 45 minutes north to Annecy (France), an Alpine town in southeastern France. After refreshing at your hotel, start your day by wandering through the enchanting Vieille Ville (Old Town), where cobblestone streets and pastel-colored buildings create a fairy-tale vibe. Stroll along the picturesque canals, over charming bridges and past flowerboxes bursting with color before heading to the scenic shores of Lac d'Annecy for a leisurely walk or bike ride around the lake.

Soak in the spectacular views of the snowcapped Alps on your walk or ride. Or, rent a pedal boat and glide across the lake's translucent glacial waters. Afterward, head to the bustling local markets to grab a flaky pastry or a chunk of creamy cheese—French indulgence at its best! Then, wrap up your outing with a decadent Annecy-style crêpe, smothered in rich dark chocolate, at a cozy canalside café.

Before choosing from multiple Michelin-starred restaurants or smaller family establishments for dinner, be sure to log into the GPS app (provided). This will guarantee you stress-free hikes, cycling trips, and road adventures during your trip. Plus, you'll enjoy detailed itineraries and fun facts to guide you every step of the way.

Day 2: Paraglide over Lac d'Annecy, Cycle up Le Col de Forclaz

Wake up after your relaxing first day, and prepare to soar this morning. See Haute Savoie's awe-inspiring beauty from a whole new perspective by paragliding over Lac d'Annecy. Sit back, let the wind guide you, and soak up the amazing view of majestic mountains and lush valleys from above. After your exhilarating yet peaceful adventure, unwind with a comforting fondue savoyarde, a rich and creamy cheese delight made with local cheeses like reblochon, emmental, and beaufort, served with chunks of fresh bread for dipping.

After refueling, get ready for a memorable cycling adventure as you take on the iconic mountain pass, Le Col de Forclaz. Pick up your rental road bike with a map, tips, a lock, and a helmet, and prepare for a thrilling 3,773-foot (1,150 m) ascent. Follow the winding 11-mile (18 km) route through charming Alpine villages and dense forests, with plenty of chances to pause and soak in the scenery. As you climb, the views become even more spectacular, with Lac d'Annecy's shimmering waters stretching out below. Reaching the summit is the ultimate reward—snap a photo, catch your breath, and savor the moment. 

Day 3: Cycle up to Le Grand Bornand, Spa & Massage in Annecy

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at the hotel or a canalside café, then pick up your rental road bike. On today's route, you'll cycle 15.5 miles (25 km) up to the picturesque Alpine village, Le Grand Bornand, an ascent of 2,460 feet (750 m). Pass through forests of towering pine trees and open meadows, where Alpine flowers bloom in the warmer months, as you pedal along winding roads through the dramatic, rugged beauty of the Aravis mountain range. Ride past quiet mountain streams and traditional wooden Alpine chalets while admiring sweeping views of Mont Blanc in the distance.

Once you arrive in Le Grand Bornand, take a break to soak in the mountain air, admire the village's rustic charm, and enjoy the peaceful Alpine atmosphere. If you're after something sweet after your climb, indulge in a traditional millefeuille (layers of thin, flaky puff pastry alternating with rich layers of cream) or a slice of tarte aux myrtilles (a blueberry tart that's a local specialty) at a local café. After a day of adventure, soothe your muscles and let all the tension melt away with an hour-long massage at a spa in Annecy, leaving you refreshed and rejuvenated for tomorrow's adventures.

Day 4: Walking Tour of the Old Town, Drive to Allemont, Cycle to L'Alpe d'Huez

Join a local guide this morning for a two-hour walking tour of Annecy's historic Vieille Ville, often called the "Second Venice." Discover the Old Town's canals, bridges, and the fascinating Palais de l'Isle, a medieval prison that dates back to the 12th century. Enter to learn about its intriguing history, then follow your guide to uncover more of the town's hidden gems and rich stories. When you arrive at the Pont des Amours (Bridge of Lovers), you'll find a romantic spot with beautiful views. If you're with a special someone, pause for a kiss—locals believe those who do will enjoy eternal love and happiness.

Afterward, hop in the car and drive two hours to Allemont, a historic village in the Oisans Valley and a gateway to outdoor adventures like skiing, mountain biking, paragliding, hiking, and cycling. The village's quiet charm also offers a more peaceful and authentic Alpine experience. Check into your hotel and prepare for your next cycling adventure. Pick up your rental road bike and ride toward the legendary L'Alpe d'Huez, a resort town famous for its challenging climbs and iconic Tour de France stages.

You'll ascend 3,600 feet (1,100 m) as you pedal along 8.6 miles (13.8 km) of winding roads past green meadows and Alpine forests, the scent of pine and wildflowers in the air. With each switchback (of 21), the views of snowcapped peaks and deep valleys unfold, offering a new perspective with every turn. At the summit, take a moment to catch your breath and enjoy the cool mountain breezes and spectacular Alpine vistas before heading back down. 

Day 5: Cycle the Tour du Lac du Verney or Col du Glandon Routes

After yesterday's long day on the road, you can opt for a more relaxing route around the nearby reservoir this morning. Ride through peaceful forests alongside the sparkling waters of the serene Lac du Verney and enjoy incredible mountain views on the 3.7-mile (6 km) Tour du Lac du Verney route. The ride is relatively flat, making it perfect for a relaxed day on the bike, with plenty of chances to stop and soak in the beauty of the surrounding Alps as you explore the region at your own pace.

If you're up for more of a challenge, you can tackle the Col du Glandon route instead. This climb is a true test for cyclists, with a steady ascent of 3,600 feet (1,100 m) over 13 miles (21 km). You'll pass through Alpine meadows and verdant forests while enjoying panoramic views of snowcapped peaks. With each switchback, the elevation increases, offering a rewarding sense of accomplishment upon reaching the summit. The views from the top make it all worth it—perfect for adventurous cyclists looking to push their limits!

Day 6: Drive to Aix-les-Bains, Boat Tour with Lunch on Lac du Bourget

After a scenic 1.5-hour drive, you'll arrive in Aix-les-Bains, a lakeside town brimming with elegance and relaxation. Check into your hotel, then take time to wander its streets lined with Belle Époque architecture and boutique shops. The highlight of your day? A leisurely boat tour on Lac du Bourget, France's largest natural lake. Savor a delicious lunch onboard—perhaps fresh fish from the lake, local cheeses, and crisp white wine from nearby vineyards. Afterward, cycle or stroll along the tree-lined Boulevard Du Lac, a picturesque 1.9-mile (3 km) lakeside promenade.

Beyond the promenade, you can relax in the town's thermal spas (les bains means the baths), hike nearby mountains, and try water sports like paddleboarding, kayaking, or sailing on the lake. For the history-minded, visit the gardens and exhibits at the Faure Museum to see Impressionist artwork and Rodin sculptures and explore the ancient Roman ruins, including parts of a Roman bathhouse and other structures related to their spa culture. For dinner, savor local dishes like perch fillets or tartiflette, a baked casserole from the Savoie region made with potatoes, reblochon cheese, bacon, onions, and cream.

Day 7: Drive to Geneva, Depart

Now that you've cycled through the French Alps and discovered its charming medieval towns and villages, it's time to return to Geneva for your flight home. If you have time, you might like to explore more of Aix-les-Bains and its surroundings. A short drive from town, you'll reach the 12th-century Abbaye d'Hautecombe, perched on the shores of Lac du Bourget. This beautiful abbey, with its Gothic and Romanesque architecture, offers peaceful surroundings and sweeping lake views.

Explore its historic church, cloisters, and royal tombs, including those of the Savoy family. Then, wander the grounds, marvel at the views, and peruse the small on-site gift shops for authentic local products. When it's time, drive one hour to Geneva airport for your flight home. Safe travels! 

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