Plage de l'Impérial: Annecy's Lakeside Gem
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, 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.
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.
A brief summary to Plage de l'Impérial
- 30 Av. d'Albigny, Annecy, 74000, FR
Getting There
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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.
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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.
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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.
