Annecy and its turquoise lake: the perfect van or motorhome road trip

Discover Annecy, the Venice of the Alps, nestled between mountains, crystal-clear waters and historic stone buildings. A 100% nature and culture itinerary, ideal for road-trippers in a van.

With its turquoise waters, flower-lined canals and mountain backdrop, Annecy is a must-visit stop for van or motorhome travellers. From lakeside strolls to historical visits and breathtaking landscapes, the region is packed with treasures to explore at your own pace. Ready to hit the road? Here are 5 unmissable spots.

Lake Annecy

With its transparent waters and mountain setting, it’s one of Europe’s most beautiful lakes. Perfect for a swim, a bike ride or a picnic with your feet in the water.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping Onlycamp - Au Cœur du Lac Campsite ★ 4.3 Direct beach access and cycle path, 5 km from the lake. Rated 4.3, 186 reviews, 5 min drive. › Le Clos Don Jean Campsite ★ 4.4 Family-friendly shaded campsite with castle views. 800 m from the lake, 6 min drive. › Menthon-Saint-Bernard height-free car park Parking ★ 4.5 Free parking at the castle’s base, stunning views. Bakery 200 m away, 6 min drive. › Camping Le Belvédère Campsite ★ 4 Quiet municipal campsite in the heights. New facilities, 14 min walk to the centre. › Free weekend parking Annecy Parking ★ 4.7 Free overnight parking in the town centre. Close to the lake and Old Town, 13 min walk. ›

Annecy Old Town

Lose yourself in the cobbled streets, among colourful houses and lively canals. The Palais de l’Île, a former medieval prison, is the symbol of the city.

Where to sleep nearby

Free weekend parking Annecy Parking ★ 4.7 Free overnight stay in the heart of town. Lake and Old Town just steps away (6 min walk). › Aire privée de camping-cars Campsite ★ 4.7 Cosy private area, 13 pitches. All services included (8 min drive). › Camping Le Belvédère Campsite ★ 4 3-star site with stunning views. 14 min walk to the centre (bus 27 recommended). › Menthon-Saint-Bernard height-free car park Parking ★ 4.5 Quiet, with castle views. Bakery 200 m away (8 min drive). › Camping Onlycamp - Au Cœur du Lac Campsite ★ 4.3 Direct beach and cycle path access. 5 km from the centre (6 min drive). ›

Annecy Castle

Overlooking the town, this medieval castle offers a stunning view of the lake and mountains. Its temporary exhibitions and museum are well worth a visit.

Where to sleep nearby

Free weekend parking Annecy Parking ★ 4.7 Sleep in the heart of Annecy, free overnight. 4.7/5, direct access to the lake and Old Town. › Menthon-Saint-Bernard height-free car park Parking ★ 4.5 Stunning castle views, absolute peace. 4.5/5, bakery and restaurants 200 m away (7 km, 7 min). › Aire privée de camping-cars Campsite ★ 4.7 Cosy private area, full services, warm welcome. 4.7/5, 218 reviews (7 km, 8 min). › Le Clos Don Jean Campsite ★ 4.4 Family-friendly shaded campsite with lake views. 4.4/5, 800 m from the beach (7 km, 7 min). › Camping Le Belvédère Campsite ★ 4 Quiet municipal campsite, new facilities. 4/5, 11 min walk to the centre (uphill). ›

La Tour de la Perrière

This 13th-century defensive tower is a remnant of Annecy’s old ramparts. Climb to the top for a 360-degree panorama over the town and lake.

Where to sleep nearby

Parking next to church Chavanod Parking ★ 5 Stunning valley views, flat and shaded pitch. 5 min drive. › Aire privée de camping-cars Campsite ★ 4.7 Private area with all services, 13 pitches over 2 levels. 7 min drive. › Le Pré Ombragé Campsite ★ 4.5 Farm campsite in an orchard, mountain views. 8 min drive. › Camping Onlycamp - Au Cœur du Lac Campsite ★ 4.3 Direct beach and cycle path access. 7 min drive. › Free weekend parking Annecy Parking ★ 4.7 Free overnight parking, Annecy centre and lake nearby. 28 min walk. ›

Les Gorges du Fier

Just 15 minutes from Annecy, this spectacular natural site is carved by the Fier River. The suspension bridge and viewpoints offer dizzying views.

Where to sleep nearby

Picnic parking by the road Lovagny Parking ★ 3.8 Stunning views of the gorges and castle, 7 min walk. Picnic tables in nature. › Aire privée de camping-cars Campsite ★ 4.7 13 stabilised pitches, all services included (218 reviews). 5 min drive, close to the lake. › Forest parking stadium Poisy Parking ★ 4.3 Secluded wooded setting, absolute peace. 5 min drive (rustic road). › Le Pré Ombragé Campsite ★ 4.5 Farm campsite with orchard, mountain views. 48 min walk, authentic and shaded atmosphere. › Motorhome area at Secret Gardens Vaulx Motorhome area ★ 4.3 Free countryside parking for 3-6 vehicles. 5 min drive, preserved environment. ›

Le Semnoz

Accessible by car or on foot, this summit offers one of the best views over Lake Annecy. Ideal for a sunset or a hike in nature.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping Le Panoramic lac d'annecy Campsite ★ 4.5 Breathtaking lake views, heated pool. 6 km, 4.5/5, 89 reviews. › Chairlift parking Leschaux Parking ★ 4.7 1600 m altitude, absolute peace. 22 min walk, 4.7/5, 42 reviews. › Leschaux mountain view parking Parking ★ 5 Alpine viewpoint, free. 4 min walk, 5/5, 9 reviews. › Camping le Crêtoux Campsite ★ 4.3 Family-friendly, shaded, panoramic views. 4 km, 4.3/5, 55 reviews. › Official motorhome area in Saint-Jorioz Motorhome area ★ 3.6 Free, close to the lake and cycle path. 6 km, 3.6/5, 13 reviews. ›

See all spots on the map