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

Sep 5
8 min read

🌊 Albigny, the unmissable paddleboarding spot at Lake Annecy

Lake Annecy is renowned as one of the most beautiful lakes in Europe: turquoise water, Alpine mountains, charming villages. Among its most famous beaches, Albigny Beach in Annecy-le-Vieux is undoubtedly the most popular… and one of the best for paddleboarding .

A wide grassy lawn, easy access, friendly atmosphere, and magnificent views make Albigny an ideal spot to rent a paddleboard and discover the lake in a different way. Whether you're a beginner, a family member, or a fan of gentle gliding, Albigny offers you an unforgettable experience.

1️⃣ Why choose Albigny for paddleboarding?

Albigny Beach, located north of the town of Annecy, is one of the largest on the lake. It is distinguished by:

✅ Easy access : 10 minutes walk from the center of Annecy, connected by bus and green cycle path.
✅ Full services : restaurants, snack bars, ice cream parlors, public toilets and showers.
✅ Family atmosphere : ideal for children and groups.
✅ Panoramic setting : unobstructed view of the West bank, the Semnoz mountains and Mont Veyrier.

👉 Unlike the wilder beaches of Doussard or Talloires, Albigny is the perfect choice if you want to combine practicality + urban tourism + paddleboarding .

2️⃣ The paddle experience from Albigny beach

By renting a paddleboard in Albigny, you will discover Lake Annecy like few tourists do.

Easy start : the entry into the water is gradual, perfect for beginners.
Towards the south : follow the riverbank to the Pont des Amours and admire the old town of Annecy and its canals from the water.
Towards the north : head back towards Veyrier-du-Lac to enjoy crystal clear and calmer waters.
In the middle of the lake : panoramic view of the Duingt castle and the mountains.
In the evening : incredible sunset over the Semnoz peaks.

👉 Each direction offers a different experience, between urban atmosphere, nature and alpine panoramas.

3️⃣ Paddleboard rental in Albigny: prices and options

Several nautical clubs and private rental companies are located directly on Albigny beach. You will find:

Classic paddle (rigid or inflatable) → €12 to €18/hour.
XXL Paddle (up to 6 people) → €25 to €40/hour, ideal for bachelor/bachelorette parties or family outings.
Paddle yoga or fitness → €20 to €30/hour, supervised by a qualified instructor.
Half-day packages → €25–30.

💡 In July and August, consider booking online to avoid waiting.

4️⃣ Access and parking: how to get to Albigny?

🚗 By car : Free parking just behind the beach, but full after 10am in summer. Arrive early!
🚴 By bike : Albigny is on the green cycle path that goes around the lake → ideal and quick solution.
🚌 By bus : SIBRA lines from the train station or Annecy town center (“Albigny” stop).
🚶 On foot : 10 to 15 minutes from the center, via the Pâquier and the lakeside promenade.

5️⃣ What to see and discover around Albigny after paddleboarding?

Albigny is not just a beach, it is also an ideal starting point for exploring Annecy and its surroundings:

🏰 Old town of Annecy : its canals, the Palais de l'Isle, the castle, the local market.
🌿 Promenade du Pâquier : vast lawn by the water, perfect for a stroll or a picnic.
⛰️ Hike to Mont Veyrier : departure possible from Veyrier-du-Lac for an incredible panorama of the lake.
🚤 Lake Cruises : Complete your nautical experience with an electric boat or shuttle.

👉 Albigny perfectly combines paddleboarding, swimming, tourism and gastronomy .

Plage d'Albigny Annecy

6️⃣ Practical tips to make the most of it

🕗 Best times : morning (8am–11am) → calm water, little wind.
🌅 Magical alternative : sunset paddle outing to see the sun set over the Semnoz.
🧴 Recommended equipment : sunscreen, cap, water, water shoes.
🦺 Safety : Wearing a life jacket is recommended, respecting swimming areas and buoys.

7️⃣ Comparison table – Albigny paddle rental

Type of paddle	Average price	For whom?	Special feature
Classic paddle	12–18 €/h	Beginners, families	Easy launching
XXL Paddle (4–6 people)	25–40 €/h	Groups, friends, bachelor/bachelorette parties	Friendly and fun
Supervised paddleboarding / yoga	20–30 €/h	Beginners, athletes	Qualified instructor

8️⃣ Conclusion: Albigny, a perfect spot to discover Annecy differently

Albigny Beach is one of the best places to paddleboard on Lake Annecy:

easy access from the center,
tourist services on site,
variety of water routes,
exceptional panoramic setting.

👉 Whether you are a beginner or an experienced paddler, with family or friends, renting a paddleboard in Albigny will offer you a memorable experience combining sport, relaxation and discovery of Annecy.

🧭 Paddleboarding course from Albigny beach

Setting off on a paddleboard from Albigny Beach in Annecy-le-Vieux is an unforgettable experience. Here are some detailed itineraries, accessible according to your level and your desire to explore:

🔹 Discovery trail – 1 hour (Beginners / Families)

Departure : easy launch from Albigny beach.
Route : Follow the south bank towards the Pâquier , the large lawn in the heart of Annecy. You will pass in front of the Charles Bosson Park and then reach the famous Pont des Amours , which connects the Vassé canal to the lake.
Must-sees : Annecy's old town with its colorful houses in the background, the swans that often swim in this area, and the magnificent view of Annecy Castle in the distance.
Return : return quietly to Albigny.
👉 Ideal for a first paddleboarding experience with children.

🔹 Panoramic route – 2 hours (Intermediate)

Departure : Albigny beach.
Directions : Head north towards Veyrier-du-Lac . You'll follow the shore, enjoying the very clear waters, often turquoise blue in good weather.
Things to see : As you row, Mont Veyrier rises majestically above you. Further away, on a clear day, you'll see the Château de Menthon-Saint-Bernard , one of the most beautiful monuments in Haute-Savoie.
Possible break : a quick swim in the hidden coves before returning to Albigny.
👉 This route is perfect for a sporty outing with incredible views of the mountains.

🔹 Sunset tour – 1h30 (Romantic / Photogenic)

Departure : Albigny in the late afternoon (6 p.m.–8 p.m. in summer).
Route : Head out slightly further out to sea to move away from the shore. Position yourself facing the west bank, towards Saint-Jorioz and Semnoz .
Sights include the sun setting behind the mountains, the water taking on golden and pink hues, and a calmer atmosphere as the lake empties of swimmers.
Tip : Bring a waterproof bag for your phone or camera → the sunsets seen from the water are spectacular.
👉 A unique experience, ideal for couples or friends.

✅ FAQ – Paddle Rental Albigny Beach

🛶 Where to rent a paddleboard at Albigny beach in Annecy-le-Vieux?

👉 Paddleboard rentals at Albigny Beach (Annecy-le-Vieux) are available directly on-site thanks to the water sports centers located on the shores of Lake Annecy. Rental companies offer rigid or inflatable paddleboards, as well as XXL paddleboards for groups, available by the hour or half-day.

💶 What is the average price for a paddleboard rental in Albigny, Annecy-le-Vieux? 👉 The price of a paddleboard rental in Albigny (Annecy-le-Vieux) varies between €12 and €18 per hour for a classic paddleboard. For a half-day, prices start around €25, and some providers offer reduced rates for families or groups. This is one of the most affordable options for paddleboarding on Lake Annecy .

⏰ What is the best time to paddleboard in Albigny on Lake Annecy? 👉 The ideal conditions for paddleboarding at Albigny beach are in the morning, between 8am and 11am : Lake Annecy is then calmer and launching is pleasant. In the evening, the sunsets facing the Semnoz create an exceptional atmosphere for a romantic paddleboarding outing or with friends.

👨👩👧 Can we go paddleboarding with the family on Albigny beach?

👉 Yes, Albigny Beach in Annecy-le-Vieux is one of the best spots for a family paddleboarding outing. The boards are wide and stable, and some clubs rent XXL paddleboards (up to 6 people) to share the experience with children or friends. It's a friendly, safe, and accessible activity for everyone.

🚗 Is there free parking near Albigny beach?

👉 Yes, there is a free parking lot located just behind Albigny beach . Be careful though: it fills up quickly during high season (July-August). To enjoy your paddleboard rental in Albigny with peace of mind, it is recommended to arrive before 10 a.m.

🚴 Can you reach Albigny beach by bike from the center of Annecy?

👉 Yes, Albigny Beach in Annecy-le-Vieux is directly connected by the green cycle path that runs along the lake. In less than 10 minutes, you can reach Albigny from the center of Annecy, an ideal and eco-friendly alternative for combining cycling and paddleboarding.

🚌 How to get to Albigny beach by bus from Annecy city center?

👉 SIBRA operates regular buses to Albigny Beach from Annecy train station and city center. The “Albigny” bus stop is just a 2-minute walk from the beach, making it convenient for car-free paddleboard rentals .

📍 What tourist spots can you discover by paddleboard from Albigny?

👉 From Albigny beach , a tourist can paddle south and admire the Pont des Amours , the old town of Annecy and its castle. To the north, the ride leads towards Veyrier-du-Lac , with views of Mont Veyrier and, further away, the castle of Menthon-Saint-Bernard. This is one of the most beautiful ways to discover Lake Annecy by paddleboard .

🌅 Can you paddleboard at sunset from Albigny?

👉 Yes, Albigny Beach is a perfect spot for a sunset paddle outing. As you head slightly further out to sea, you'll enjoy a clear view of the Semnoz and the mountains on the west shore. The setting sun illuminates Lake Annecy with golden and pink colors, creating an unforgettable setting.

🏰 Can you reach the old town of Annecy by paddleboard from Albigny?

👉 Yes, following the south bank from Albigny, you can easily reach the Pâquier and the Pont des Amours , with a direct view of the old town of Annecy. This short and easy walk is very popular with tourists who want to combine paddleboarding and heritage discovery.

💧 Is the water clear for paddleboarding in Albigny?

👉 Yes, Lake Annecy is renowned for being one of the purest in Europe. At Albigny Beach , the water is particularly clear and turquoise, which makes paddleboarding even more enjoyable. On sunny days, you can even see the seabed and fish beneath the board.

🧘 Are paddle yoga sessions offered in Albigny, Annecy-le-Vieux?

👉 Yes, some Albigny Beach providers organize paddleboarding yoga and fitness sessions at sunrise or sunset. Led by qualified instructors, these activities combine wellness, sport, and the magnificent scenery of Lake Annecy.

🔒 Should you book your paddleboard in Albigny in summer?

👉 During peak season, it's strongly recommended to book your paddleboard rental in Albigny in advance. On weekends and in July and August, water sports centers are often fully booked by late morning. Booking online guarantees equipment availability and saves you the hassle of waiting.

🐕 Is it possible to paddleboard with your dog in Albigny?

👉 Yes, some rental companies on Albigny Beach allow dogs on paddleboards, especially the wide, stable boards. It's recommended that you equip your dog with a life jacket and that you go out early in the morning when the beach is less crowded.

🏖️ What services are available on Albigny beach in Annecy-le-Vieux?

👉 Albigny Beach is very well equipped: showers, toilets, restaurants, ice cream parlors, snack bars, shaded lawns, and water sports centers. After a paddleboarding outing, it's easy to extend the day with a picnic, a visit to the old town, or a swim in the clear waters of Lake Annecy.

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