Background

Plage de l'Impérial: Annecy's Lakeside Gem

4.1 (1455)

Relax and soak up the sun at Plage de l'Impérial, a scenic lakeside beach in Annecy with stunning mountain views and recreational fun.

Plage de l'Impérial is a popular public beach on the shores of Lake Annecy, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the iconic Impérial Palace. With its grassy areas, swimming facilities, and proximity to restaurants and bars, it's a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike to relax and enjoy the beautiful lakeside setting.

A brief summary to Plage de l'Impérial

  • Monday 10 am-7 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-7 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-7 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-7 pm
  • Friday 10 am-7 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-7 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-7 pm

Local tips

  • Arrive early during the peak summer months to secure a good spot on the grassy beach.
  • Take advantage of the convenient bus access and cycle path to reach the beach.
  • Enjoy a meal or drink at one of the nearby restaurants or bars while taking in the stunning lake views.
  • Check the supervision schedule if you plan to swim, as the beach is supervised during specific months.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Annecy Town Hall (Place de l'Hôtel de Ville), walk southwest towards Rue de la République. Continue onto Rue Carnot until you reach the canal. Cross the bridge at Pont des Amours, leading to Parc Charles Bosson. Walk through the park, exit, and continue along Avenue d'Albigny. Plage de l'Impérial is on your left. The walk is approximately 20-25 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    From Annecy train station, take bus line 2 towards 'Cran-Gevrier'. Get off at the 'Albigny' stop, near Plage de l'Impérial. The beach is a short 5-minute walk from the bus stop. A single bus ticket costs €1.50 if purchased before boarding or via the app, or €2 if purchased on board.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from the Annecy bus station (Gare Routière d'Annecy) to Plage de l'Impérial typically takes around 9 minutes and costs approximately €12-€14. Services like Bolt operate in Annecy.

Discover more about Plage de l'Impérial

Plage de l'Impérial, located on the shores of Lake Annecy, is a beloved destination known for its scenic beauty and recreational opportunities. Situated next to the Impérial Palace, this beach provides a picturesque setting with views of the lake and surrounding alpine mountains. Once a privatized beach, Plage de l'Impérial has become a free public space, making it accessible to everyone. The beach features grassy areas for sunbathing and relaxation, as well as swimming facilities for those looking to cool off in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Annecy. A supervised swimming area ensures safety during the summer months. Plage de l'Impérial is well-equipped with amenities, including diving boards, a slide, and a paddling pool, making it an ideal destination for families with children. Beach volleyball and other recreational activities are also available. Several bars and restaurants are located nearby, offering a variety of dining options with stunning lake views. The beach has a rich history, evolving into a popular spot for relaxation and recreation. Its popularity surged in the mid-20th century with the rise of seaside tourism in Europe. Today, Plage de l'Impérial remains a favorite among locals and tourists, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and leisure activities.
Mobile App

Your all‑in‑one travel companion app

Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.



More about Annecy

File:Panoramic view of Lake Annecy, Annecy, France (16102733282).jpg -  Wikimedia Commons

Discover Annecy, the enchanting 'Venice of the Alps,' where turquoise lakes, historic landmarks, and vibrant culture create an unforgettable travel experience.

Tell me more about Annecy

Want to improve this location?

Activate this location now and let Evendo enhance its appearance, information, and visibility for millions of travellers.

Select Currency