Canals and a turquoise alpine lake
Annecy's old town is threaded with canals flowing out of Lake Annecy, lined with pastel houses and crossed by footbridges. The Palais de l'Isle, a former prison on a triangular islet, is its most photographed sight. The lake itself is famously clear and ringed by mountains, perfect for swimming, paddling and cycling on the flat path along its western shore. Paragliders launch from the Col de la Forclaz above. Local Savoyard food means tartiflette, fondue and Reblochon cheese.