Walking trail in the Bout du Lac d'Annecy nature reserve

The Bout du Lac nature reserve is a rare, unspoilt area on the shores of Lake Annecy, inviting you to discover a protected natural area. The site is accessible to the mobility-impaired and hearing-impaired.The Bout du Lac nature reserve is a wetland area crossed by two rivers, the Eau Morte and the Ire, which feed Lake Annecy. This marshy area to the south of the lake is an exceptional habitat. Wet forests, reedbeds, wet meadows and alkaline peat bogs make up this ecosystem, offering a diversity that is conducive to the establishment of a large number of common, rare or sensitive animal and plant species. The site's major interest lies in the presence of the underwater herbarium, which supports the development of a fauna of invertebrates and fish, and also in the reed bed, which is a refuge for the common toad, a protected area for the European beaver and for the reptiles of Haute-Savoie. Breeding birds such as the reed bunting, spotted locustella and three warblers can be found in the higher parts of the reedbed. The bittern sometimes completes this list. Wintering birds (tufted duck, common pochard and ruddy duck) spend the cold season here in good conditions. Next on the list are the willow and alder thickets, the pedunculate oak woodlands, the arable and hay meadows and the gallery forests along the watercourses. The remarkable diversity of these biotopes supports a remarkable flora. Protected species include gentian pneumonanthe, snake's tongue, water ragwort, sweet-smelling orchid and Swiss woodruff.

Beauty of the lake and mountains evolving all the time! Lake Annecy's clear waters are surrounded by moutains which colours change with seasons or light: green in spring and summer, glowing colours in autumn, pristine white in winter. Simply amazing...It is possible to admire the landscape from summits, when paragliding or along the cycle path that runs from Annecy to Savoy. Moreover, thanks to numerous protective actions performed for over 40 years, local people and tourists enjoy a protected environment: lake Annecy is considered as one of the purest lakes in Europe. The clearness and pureness of its water offer the opportunity to practice many water activities: swimming, of course, but also sailing, windsurfing, canoeing, rowing, water skiing, scuba diving, fishing... Lake Annecy is a perfect place for sports, leisure and also to discover history and local heritage. Stroll around the colourful, paved streets of Annecy's Old town, discover castles and museums, meet local craftspeople... Lake Annecy is also famous for its markets (with local products, cheese and delicatessen) and restaurants (local or gastronomic cuisine, fish and seafood...).