🚣 Canoe rental on Lake Annecy: where, when and how to paddle in complete freedom?

Lake Annecy, a true alpine gem, is one of the most beautiful places in France for canoeing. Crystal-clear waters, majestic mountains, secret coves... What if you set off on an adventure? In this article, we'll guide you through how to make the most of your canoe rental on Lake Annecy .

🌊 Why choose canoeing on Lake Annecy?

Canoeing is much more than just a leisure activity: it is a true immersion in an exceptional natural setting.

• An accessible and safe lake : without strong currents, perfect for all levels.

• A 360° panorama : mountains, typical villages, unspoiled nature.

• Zero engine noise : a peaceful and environmentally friendly experience.

Canoe rental on Lake Annecy

📍 The Best Canoeing and Kayaking Spots on Lake Annecy

Lake Annecy is famous for its crystal-clear waters, framed by the Bauges and Aravis mountains, and its charming lakeside villages. If you’re planning a canoe or kayak outing, here are the most popular spots around the lake, with detailed tips to help you enjoy each location to the fullest.

🏖 Albigny Beach (Annecy-le-Vieux)

Albigny is one of the busiest beaches on the lake, located right next to Annecy town. It’s an excellent starting point for a paddle if you want to combine sport with sightseeing.

• ⛴ Parking: A large free parking lot is located about a 5-minute walk away, but it fills up quickly in summer — arrive early.

• 🌊 Launching: Easy entry from the wide pebble beach.

• 🎨 Why go: Paddle along the lively promenade and admire the views of the Parmelan and Mont Veyrier mountains. It’s a spot that mixes local life, cafés, and postcard landscapes.

• 💡 Tip: From Albigny, you can head towards Annecy’s old town and even paddle beneath the iconic Pont des Amours for a unique urban-meets-nature experience.

• Read : "🏖️ Paddleboard rental at Albigny beach (Annecy-le-Vieux): the tourist guide"

🌿 Bay of Talloires

Talloires is often described as the most picturesque part of Lake Annecy. Its bay is framed by steep cliffs, the Roc de Chère nature reserve, and luxury hotels and restaurants.

• ⛴ Parking: There is a dedicated parking area close to the Abbey of Talloires.

• 🌊 Launching: Canoes and kayaks can be launched directly from Talloires municipal beach.

• 📸 Why go: Paddle through wild coves, along shaded cliffs, and into areas of turquoise-blue water that feel almost Mediterranean.

• 💡 Tip: From Talloires, it’s easy to reach the Roc de Chère reserve, a protected area with stunning biodiversity, best admired from the water.

• Read : "🚣‍♀️ Paddle/Kayak in Talloires-Montmin: The Most Peaceful Spot on Lake Annecy"

  
  

🌅 Saint-Jorioz

Located on the western shore, Saint-Jorioz is well-known for its large sandy beach and relaxed family-friendly atmosphere. It is also one of the best places to admire sunsets on the lake.

• ⛴ Parking: A large paid parking lot is available near the municipal beach, with easy access to the water.

• 🌊 Launching: Gentle ramp entry, ideal for beginners and families with children.

• 🌅 Why go: The sunsets here are breathtaking, with the orange glow over the Dents de Lanfon mountains reflecting in the lake.

• 💡 Tip: After paddling, enjoy the lively cafés and ice-cream parlors along the promenade. Families particularly appreciate the lifeguarded swimming area.

• Read :" 🚣 Paddleboard Rental in Saint-Jorioz: Where to Rent and Paddle on Lake Annecy ?"

  
  

🏰 Duingt

Duingt is one of the most iconic villages on the lake, easily recognized by its castle set on a narrow peninsula. From the water, it looks like a fairytale scene.

• ⛴ Parking: You can park near the cycle path and walk a short distance to the lakeshore.

• 🌊 Launching: Possible from the port or the small beach near the castle.

• 📷 Why go: The view of Château de Duingt from your canoe is unforgettable, especially with the mountains in the background.

• 💡 Tip: Paddle around the peninsula to explore quieter coves. The contrast between medieval architecture and alpine scenery is striking.

• Read : "🚣 Paddle rental in Duingt: the unmissable spot at the foot of the castle on Lake Annecy"

  
  
  
  

👪 Sevrier

Closer to Annecy town, Sevrier is a popular but relaxed spot with a reputation for being one of the most family-friendly areas of the lake.

• ⛴ Parking: Several convenient parking lots are located close to the beach.

• 🌊 Launching: Very easy entry to the water, with a beach that has both sandy and grassy areas.

• 👪 Why go: Calm waters, shaded areas, and a welcoming atmosphere make Sevrier perfect for families, beginners, and picnics.

• 💡 Tip: From Sevrier, you can paddle north towards Annecy to combine a sporty outing with a cultural visit to the old town.

• Read : "🏄 Paddleboard rental in Sévrier: where to rent and paddle on Lake Annecy?"

📊 Tip: Rent early in the morning or at the end of the day to avoid the thermal wind and enjoy mirror-like water.

🌳 Doussard (Bout-du-Lac Nature Reserve)

At the southern tip of Lake Annecy, Doussard offers one of the most natural and unspoiled settings on the entire lake. This area is part of the Bout-du-Lac Nature Reserve, a protected zone rich in biodiversity with reed beds, wetlands, and migratory birds.

• ⛴ Parking: Large parking areas are available near the municipal beach and the entrance to the reserve.

• 🌊 Launching: Easy access from the wide sandy beach or from quieter coves along the shore.

• 🌿 Why go: The calm waters here are ideal for beginners, while nature lovers will appreciate paddling among reeds and spotting herons or swans.

• ⭐ Unique feature: From Doussard, you can paddle into the reserve itself (respecting marked areas), making it one of the most peaceful and authentic canoeing experiences on Lake Annecy.

💡 Tip: Early morning outings from Doussard are particularly magical — the water is glassy, the wildlife is active, and you’ll often have the lake almost to yourself.

Read : "🚣‍♂️ Paddle Kayak in Doussard: Nature, Calm and Adventure at the End of Lake Annecy"

💼 Where to rent a canoe on Lake Annecy?

Canoe rental on Lake Annecy

There are many options around the lake. Here are some trusted rental companies:

• Annecy Adventure (Annecy-le-Vieux)

  • ➔ From €15/hour – 2 or 3-person canoes

• Talloires Nautical Club

  • ➔ Direct access to the bay of Talloires

• Canoe rental Saint-Jorioz

  • ➔ Sunset walk specialist

• Sevrier nautical base

  • ➔ Picnic area + easy parking

Consider booking online during the summer season (July-August).

🌟 Conclusion: Paddle to Freedom

Canoeing is one of the best ways to discover Lake Annecy in a different way. Whether you're a sports enthusiast, a nature lover, or a fan of incredible photography, you'll be delighted.

Want to explore even more? Check out our article on the best paddleboarding spots in Annecy or our tips for mountain kayaking .

❓ 1. Where to rent a canoe at Albigny beach in Annecy?

✅ Albigny Beach, located in Annecy-le-Vieux, offers several canoe rental shops accessible on foot from the town center or by car with parking nearby.

❓ 2. What is the hourly rate for a canoe rental at Lake Annecy?

✅ Prices vary between €12 and €20 per hour depending on the type of canoe, the starting point (Talloires, Saint-Jorioz, etc.) and the season.

❓ 3. Can you book a canoe online around Lake Annecy?

✅ Yes, most nautical bases like those of Sevrier , Veyrier-du-Lac or Talloires offer online canoe reservations to guarantee your boat.

❓ 4. Where can I find a canoe rental in Talloires with direct access to the water?

✅ The Talloires Nautical Club allows immediate launching from its private beach, ideal for exploring the wild coves and the bay.

❓ 5. Are there canoe rentals near Duingt Castle?

✅ Yes, the Duingt spot, with its views of the castle, is perfect for renting a canoe and enjoying crystal clear, uncrowded water.

❓ 6. What are the best beaches for safe canoeing at Lake Annecy?

✅ The beaches of Saint-Jorioz , Sevrier and Menthon-Saint-Bernard are renowned for their calm, ideal for beginners or family outings.

❓ 7. Where to rent a canoe for a sunset trip in Annecy?

✅ Several rental companies in Saint-Jorioz and Sevrier offer canoe trips at the end of the day to admire the sunset over the mountains.

❓ 8. Can you take a canoe trip between Annecy and Veyrier-du-Lac?

✅ Yes, by renting a canoe from Annecy-le-Vieux or Veyrier , you can sail along the peaceful shores and admire the lakeside villas.

❓ 9. What is the ideal duration for a canoe rental at Lake Annecy?

✅ A 1.5- to 2-hour rental allows you to explore a beautiful portion of the lake without rushing. Half-day or full-day packages are also available.

❓ 10. What is the ideal duration for a canoe rental at Lake Annecy?

✅ Yes, family canoe rentals are very popular, with life jackets suitable for children from 4 years old. Opt for quiet beaches like Sevrier .

❓ 11. What spots are accessible by canoe from Sevrier?

✅ From Sevrier , you can paddle towards the Roc de Chère , the Bay of Talloires , or even reach Duingt depending on your endurance.

❓ 12. Where can I park easily before renting a canoe in Annecy?

✅ The best free or paid parking lots are near Albigny beach , Sevrier (port), and Saint-Jorioz (nautical base).

❓ 13. What is the difference between kayak and canoe rental in Annecy?

✅ Canoeing is practiced with a single paddle, often in a sitting or kneeling position, while kayaking uses a double paddle, sitting with legs outstretched.

❓ 14. Can you rent a canoe at Lake Annecy for half a day?

✅ Yes, half-day rental is possible in the majority of nautical bases: ideal for making a loop between Talloires and Duingt .

❓ 15. Which nautical clubs offer canoe rental around Lake Annecy?

✅ Several clubs such as Annecy Aventure , Talloires Nautique Club or the Saint-Jorioz Nautical Base offer professional services and recent equipment.