WHEN imaging that quintessential
French holiday, Paris immediately comes to mind.
But take a look beyond the
beguiling City of Lights, and you will find France is a country full of many
beautiful places waiting to be explored. And the city of Annecy, about 5 hours
drive south of Paris is just one of those places you should experience.
Nestled at the southern tip of the
azure waters of Lake Annecy and framed by the majestic peaks of the
Haute-Savoie region, Annecy is a bewitching city that embraces the true French
provincial way of life.
In the city’s heart, the medieval
village houses countless cafes nestled among pastel coloured buildings that
line cobbled-stoned streets.
Aperitifs can be sipped while watching resident white swans glide across
near-still waters of ancient canals that sweep beneath centuries-old
footbridges.
Annecy is also home to one of
France’s most photographed monuments, the twelfth-century, Palais de l’Isle. Built in 1132, this ancient building sits
in the centre of Thiou, the city’s most famous canal.
The distinctive Palais de l’Isle, once the primary residence of the Lord of
Annecy, became a jail from the Middle
Ages until 1865. Classified as a Historical Monument in 1900, today it houses a
local history museum and is a willing model for both amateur and professional
photographers the world over.
For market lovers, the medieval village in the old town quarter
comes alive three days a week. Here you can forage among stalls loaded with
local produce and a mouthwatering array of cheeses, wine and freshly baked
breads.
Above the old quarter an ancient
castle complete with square towers and a pyramid-shaped roof houses the local
museum. Worth a visit if only to check out the very public medieval toilets, three
of which are cut into the castle wall in cozy elbow-to-elbow proximity of each
other.
Although Annecy is said to be one
of the most expensive places in France, a visit to this picturesque place won’t
necessarily break the bank. Affordable accommodation can be found in Gites,
rooms or fully self-contained apartments in local homes. They are a great way
to experience the local culture and the helpful staff in the Tourism office
located in the centre of town can assist with bookings.
Annecy is a city that caters to all
seasons. In summer, kayaking, canoeing, cycling, hiking or recreational
swimming can be enjoyed. Or for skiing buffs, Annecy is a great base during the
winter months. The Olympic city of Albertville or resorts such as Chamonix and
the ultra-chic Megeve are only a short drive away. Along the way you can soak up
the charm of provincial life by visiting the many charming villages and castle
dotting the landscape.
But regardless of when you visit, you are
sure to embrace the charm and beauty of this magical French city.
Tourist information:
Paris – Annecy TGV train
information: www.raileurope.com.au
Annecy Tourism: www.tourisme.fr/tourist-office/annecy.htm
Ryan Air & Easy Jet have flights to Paris/Geneva from $A30.00
For bookings go to www.ryanair.com
or http://easyjet.com
