France, Annecy - a unique lake and ancient city

Annecy is a unique pond of turquoise color, a natural phenomenon of delightful beauty. Filled with the purest water of drinking quality, the lake is located in the department of Haute Savoie, France. Annie in French - Lac d'Annecy, so often there is such a spelling of the name - Annecy. The natural body of water is almost inferior in beauty and popularity to its larger neighbors - Lake Geneva and Lac du Bourget.

Where is the amazing lake?

Geographical coordinates of the natural reservoir: 45 ° 51 'N 6 ° 10'E. On its northern shore is the city of Annecy. In France, this settlement with a population of more than 50 thousand inhabitants is considered the administrative center of Upper Savoy. Another nearest town is Crans-Gevrier. Lake Annecy is located 145 km from Lyon, the capital of the Rhône-Alpes region. Through this large city passes the road from Paris to the east, to the Alps. The natural reservoir is located 80.5 km south of Swiss Geneva. The road is laid along the most beautiful terrain, it is framed by snow-capped mountains and sunny valleys.

How to get to the city and the lake of the same name

In Annecy from many French and European cities are sent trains and buses. There is an option to get from Geneva airport via Aix-les-Bains by rail. From the Swiss city you need to go by train to the Upper Savoy, France. Annecy has a modern multi-purpose railway station, combined with a bus station. Another variant of the trip from Geneva is to go on your own or rented car. The train from Paris is 3 hours 30 minutes, from Lyon to the Central Station of Annecy - 1 hour 50 minutes. The station has parking and buses that go to nearby ski resorts, as well as to the major cities of the region. From Lyon airport to Annecy there is a direct bus.

In this charming area tourists can stay in comfortable hotels that number more than 40, rent chalets, rent apartments. The northern and western coast in different epochs was built up by villas, castles and cottages.

Lake Annecy, France. Origin

A stunning lake with crystal clear water lies at the foot of the Alps, surrounded by mountains and forests. The calm surface reflects the magnificent scenery. The basin of Annecy is due to its origin due to ancient glaciation and tectonic movements. During the last cooling of the climate 18-19 thousand years ago and the subsequent melting and retreat of the Alpine glaciers, grinding, blurring of stones and sand, melting of the gorges and lowlands occurred.

The main characteristics of the lake:

• The absolute height is 446.6 m;
• Length from north to south - 14.6 km;
• Width - 3.3 km;
• Average and maximum depth - 41.5 m and 82 m, respectively.

Natural features, climate

The whole of France, Annecy, among others, lies in a temperate climate zone with sufficient moisture. In summer during the beach season, the average air temperature in the lake area is 25 ° C, the water is heated to 22 ° C. In January, the average water temperature reaches 6 ° C. Precipitation falls throughout the year evenly, there are fogs. Snow and frost are rare phenomena.

A major role in the lake's water supply is assigned to seven major streams and mountain springs. When filling the hollow, part of the water flows into the Tiu River, which merges with the river. Fie. That, in turn, carries its waters further to the Rhone, which flows into the Mediterranean Sea. The eastern and northern shores of the lake are protected by mountains. Heat and moisture in the region is enough to grow trees, shrubs and flowers. In the lake itself there are over 20 species of fish, wild animals are found in the forests on the coast.

Ecology and tourism

Clean air, beautiful landscapes, vineyards and gardens - all this is provincial France. Annecy is the most environmentally safe corner of the country. Stories about an unusual turquoise lake are not an advertising ploy. The water is really an amazing blue hue due to the special composition of the phytoplankton.

A strict ban on the discharge of industrial and communal sewage into the reservoir was introduced in 1960. Since then, the popularity of the lake as a beach holiday destination has increased significantly. Annecy come all year round, but most tourists prefer the summer period. Here in full enjoy a bath in the clearest waters, fishing, horseback riding. From the promenade of Napoleon III tourists go on a boat trip along the most beautiful lake. Other possibilities for recreation:

• Cycling routes along the perimeter of the lake (40 km);
• Closely located Alpine ski resorts;
• Thermal towns and spas;
• Mini-golf courses.

The city of Annecy, France. sights

In the quiet provincial part of eastern France, the spirit of medieval romance still hovers. The city of Annecy is a network of narrow cobbled streets, canals and bridges. Through the old part flows three rivers, some houses stand directly on the water, which served as an excuse for comparing the city with Venice. Tourists are happy to walk along the lake and around the city.

Guides-interpreters and detailed tourist maps help to solve the problem with what to see in Annecy. France is a country in which people are fond of the rich historical and cultural heritage. It is part of the castle of Palais de Lille. Outwardly, the main architectural landmark of the city resembles the nose of the ship. Since its inception in the XII century, the building served as a prison, mint, and then it was transferred to the French Cultural Heritage Foundation. In the castle exhibitions are held, excursions are organized to inspect the former casemates. Other popular attractions of Annecy:

• The building of the former private hotel de Sal, built in the late 17th century;
• Well of St. Jean;
• The bell tower of the 16th century;
• The former town hall;
• The Cathedral of St. Maurice, the patron of Annecy, erected in the 15th century;
• The Church of St. Francis;
• A statue of the Catholic patron of journalists and writers of Francis Salsky;
• St. Peter's Cathedral, built in 1535;
• The former episcopal palace, which now houses the Conservatory;
• Bridge of love.

Connoisseurs of antiquity, lovers of beach and outdoor activities on the water, skiing are admired by the city and the lake, which is famous for the Upper Savoy, France. Anxi was chosen by Catholic Bishop Francis of Salsa, who fled from Geneva during the Reformation. This was the first wave of travel to the lake in the early 16th century. Francis was accompanied by a retinue from the cultural and religious elite of Europe.

Nowadays the reservoir has become famous as a prestigious resort. Attractive tourist attractions are colorful festivals and holidays. One of the main is the annual holiday of the lake. During its holding a magnificent pyrotechnic show is organized.