Haute Savoie by bike
Discovering Haute-Savoie by bike is undoubtedly the best way to appreciate the beauty of the panoramas our beautiful region has to offer. Whether you're looking for leisurely routes on the greenways or more demanding routes, there's something for the whole family!
On roads and cycle paths
Walks
A historic greenway: cycling around Lake Annecy
How about exploring one of France's oldest greenways? Several cycling itineraries are available around Lake Annecy. The West Bank itinerary, which stretches for 30 kilometers to Val de Chaise, is the most comfortable and safest, as it is entirely built on the old railroad line that linked Annecy to Albertville.
Lake Annecy
Enjoy the enchanting scenery of Lake Annecy by following the well-marked cycle paths. Ride your classic or electric bike along the 40 km circuit through the charming villages that border the lake. Admire the magnificent hues of the water as you climb. Tip: cycle clockwise to avoid the main roads. At the Veyrier-du-Lac traffic circle, take the first right for a quiet road along the beaches, offering breathtaking views.
If you like, take a break at the Bout du Lac nature reserve in Doussard. Here you'll find well-maintained trails with impressive panoramic views over the lake. For the more adventurous, continue to the Col de la Forclaz. After passing Menthon-Saint-Bernard, climb the côte d'Echarvines to reach a spectacular viewpoint over the lake, where paragliders add a touch of magic to the landscape. Continue on to the Col de la Forclaz for breathtaking views, passing through picturesque villages such as Montmin and Vesonne before finishing on a pleasant cycle path overlooking the lake.
For athletes
The Mont Veyrier forest tour
Fancy a bike ride with a breathtaking view of the lake? The Tour du Mont Veyrier is for you. This moderately-difficult 25 km circuit runs clockwise from Annecy-le-Vieux on a cycle path. Then follow the signs to Mont Veyrier. On the way, cross the Alex plain, branch off to join the Tournette tour, the Glières and the Croix Fry circuit.
The route includes the Col de Bluffy with its 100 m vertical drop. After the descent, pause to admire the view of the Château de Menthon. Continue on the Route Balcon with its panoramic views of the lake. For the more ambitious, add the Col des Contrebandiers to your itinerary. This pass, culminating at 1054 m, is easier with an electric bike, offering spectacular views over the region.
The Fier loop and gorges
Discover the west of Annecy along the Fier torrent. Go clockwise and cross Cran-Gevrier via the Gevrier and de la Salle bridges. This ride takes you through rural landscapes, picturesque villages and shady valleys. Take a break in Rumilly to visit the old quarter and enjoy a coffee.
The most beautiful part of this loop is along the Fier torrent before it plunges into the Rhône through the Val-de-Fier gorges. At the entrance to the Val, the crossing of the St-André bridge is a photo opportunity not to be missed. For the more motivated, a 4 km descent and ascent will take you to the Château de Montrottier and Gorges du Fier sites.
Le Semnoz
With the "Vélo et Fromages" label, this tour around Annecy takes in the Massif des Bauges and its gastronomy. Go clockwise and start out on the cycle path offering stunning views of the lake as far as Sevrier. Then branch off at the port of Sevrier to reach the Col de Leschaux, famous for its panoramic views of the Bauges.
For ambitious cyclists, this 12 km pass with 480 m ascent is ideal. Visit the Pont de l'Abîme near Allèves before heading down to the Chéran valley to Lescheraines. Don't miss the dairy cooperative and finish your walk on the western flank of the Semnoz with a stop at the Gruffy fruit farm.
For athletes
The Glières Pass
Take on the western slope of the 14.1 km Col des Glières, starting at Thorens-les-Glières. The first 4.7 km are relatively easy, with a slight gradient. The real challenges begin at the hamlet of Le Vernet, with an average gradient of 9% over 7 km. The bends are flat and even, offering a shady ascent.
At 1393 m, a short descent takes you to the Collet at 1354 m. The landscape opens up to the surrounding peaks. 2 km remain, with a 7.5% climb to reach the Glières plateau. The final stretch is gentler, with a gradient of no more than 2.5% to reach the Col des Glières at an altitude of 1445 m.
By foot and mountain bike
Gentle circuit
Tracks on the Glières plateau
Discover easy trails offering breathtaking views of the Plateau des Glières. Ideal for mountain biking or walking, these trails allow you to enjoy the natural beauty of the region, while remaining accessible to all levels.
Circuit de la Sapinière
Explore this 13.4 km loop route near Fillière, Haute-Savoie. This moderate route, ideal for hiking and mountain biking, takes around 4 hours to complete. Enjoy the tranquility of the trails, perfect for a nature getaway away from the crowds.
For challengers
Refuge du Parmelan
The Refuge du Parmelan, perched on the Tête du Parmelan, overlooks the hamlet of La Blonnière. Admire the panorama of the Annecy basin, the Usillon valley, Thorens castle, the Aravis mountains and the Mont Blanc range. Stop for a bite to eat before setting off again. This circuit is accessible on foot or by mountain bike, ideally between April and October.
Le Chesnet pointe de Sur Cou
This round-trip route starts at the hamlet of Le Chesnet, near La Roche-Sur-Foron. After 2 km on a forest trail, you'll reach the Pointe de Sur Cou, with its panoramic views. On a calm day, enjoy a picnic before heading back down. This trail is ideal for hiking or mountain biking, offering a great escape into the heart of nature.
Have you made your choice?
Whichever route you choose for your day's pedaling, you'll have the pleasure of passing through authentic villages and lakeside beaches. An excellent compromise between sporting activity and relaxation with family or friends.
