French Alps Adventure: Lake Annecy and Mont Blanc
An exhilarating 5-day alpine itinerary. Experience the pastel canals and clear swimming waters of Lake Annecy, then head up the Arve valley into Chamonix to ride the Aiguille du Midi cable car and hike beneath Mont Blanc.
Intercity route legs
Day-by-day itinerary
Venice of the Alps and Lakeside Stroll
AnnecyArrive in Annecy by TGV or regional train. Walk the flower-lined Thiou canal, view the Palais de l’Isle, and relax on the lawns of Le Paquier overlooking the mountains.
Cycling Around Lake Annecy
AnnecyRent a hybrid touring bicycle and cycle the flat, scenic 40 km dedicated path around Lake Annecy. Stop for afternoon swimming at Plage d’Albigny.
Mountain Bus to Chamonix Valley
ChamonixTake the regional bus or train up the valley to Chamonix. Check in to your chalet hostel and take the free valley train to gaze up at the glaciers.
Aiguille du Midi and Mont Blanc Glacier
ChamonixAscend to 3,842 meters on the Aiguille du Midi cable car. Marvel at the Mont Blanc summit and walk through the glacier ice caves.
Lac Blanc Alpine Hike and Departure
ChamonixHike to stunning Lac Blanc reflecting the jagged Aiguilles de Chamonix. Afternoon coach connection to Geneva Airport or train back to Lyon.
✂️ What I Would Cut If Short on Time
Skip Annecy and head directly to Chamonix if your priority is high-altitude mountaineering and Mont Blanc.
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