When camping around Lake Annecy, it’s essential to know how to get around easily and efficiently to discover all the region’s wonders. Whether you’re a nature lover, culture enthusiast or looking for sporting activities, there are a number of public transport options for exploring Lake Annecy and the surrounding area. In this article, we offer a comprehensive guide to the public transport options available.
The bus with the SIBRA network
The SIBRA bus network is a practical and economical public transport option for getting around Lake Annecy. Buses serve the main towns in the Annecy conurbation, as well as the lakeside.
SIBRA offers services covering the whole of Greater Annecy, with 724 stops and 27 regular routes. The urban network covers 343 km and the intercity network covers 128 km².
For travel on the left bank of the lake, line 15A runs from Annecy bus station to Duingt, via the Marquisats, Sévrier and Saint-Jorioz stops. You can park your car in Duingt for the day and take the bus to avoid traffic jams and parking problems in the town center.
The right bank of the lake is served by line 2, which also links the Annecy bus station to Talloires-Montmin, with stops at Albigny, Veyrier-du-Lac and Menthon-Saint-Bernard.
Take the bus from our campsites to Lake Annecy
From the campsite, you can walk to the bus stop for the regular 7-day-a-week Y51 Albertville -> Annecy service.
Camping Lo Velâjo: Take the Y51 bus just below the campsite at the “Lathuile pied du village” stop. It will take you directly to Annecy Hôtel de ville.
Camping La Ravoire and Camping les Fontaines: Take the Y51 bus from the “DOUSSARD Bout du Lac” stop to Annecy. The stop is at the water’s edge, near the Chez ma Cousine restaurant.
Lake Annecy by bike: take advantage of the cycle paths
Annecy is home to a multitude of bike rental services for private individuals, which are great options for getting around Lake Annecy. These options make it easy for mountain bikers to find the equipment they need to explore the forest trails. Rental specialists offer expert advice and the right equipment for every trip.
The cycle path around the lake offers breathtaking scenery and is accessible to everyone, from beginners to experienced cyclists. You can stop wherever you like to admire the scenery or take a swim break. Several bike rental companies offer classic and electric bikes in Annecy. The 42 km bike path is safe and well-maintained, ideal for a day of discovery.
Cycling from our Lake Annecy campsites
Camping La Ravoire: Rent a bike directly at the campsite or nearby and join the Lake Annecy cycle path. You can easily follow this path around the lake and discover the neighboring villages.
Camping Lo Velâjo: Drop by reception to rent a bike and join the Lake Annecy cycle path. It is 1km from the campsite towards the lake at Le Polé. You can easily follow this trail to Annecy or around the lake.
Camping Les Fontaines: You can also rent a bike directly at the campsite or nearby and access the cycle path. On leaving the campsite, turn right at the stop sign, then take the first left onto “route des Vignettes”. You’ll reach the greenway at the old Lathuile train station. The trail takes you around the lake and lets you enjoy the picturesque scenery to the full.
Boating, an original way to discover the lake
Boating is a unique and relaxing way to discover Lake Annecy. The Compagnie des Bateaux offers guided cruises, regular shuttles between villages and private boat rentals. Seeing the lake and its mountains from the water is an unforgettable experience, with shuttles linking the main villages around the lake. See the company’s website for detailed timetables and fares.
Take the boat from our Lake Annecy campsites
Meet at the port of Doussard to board the shuttle-cruise. As well as a means of transport, you’ll have a guided tour of the main points of interest on the lake. It’s an original and very pleasant way to visit Annecy while avoiding traffic jams.
The car for greater flexibility
If you’d like to explore more remote parts of the lake, or travel with your family in comfort, a car is still a practical option. It’s ideal for day trips and visits to sites less accessible by public transport.
Free and paid parking lots are available around the lake, but beware of busy areas in high season. There’s a car-sharing service available on demand in Annecy, with 15 different stations; go to your smartphone for booking and payment! By car, you can easily visit pretty villages like Talloires and other parts of the Haute-Savoie region.
Innovative transport options
The gyropod or segway is an innovative, silent means of transport that makes discovering Annecy and its lake fun. A two-wheeled electric vehicle, the segway is driven standing up, offering panoramic views and the possibility of riding on sidewalks. Small-group rentals with a guide are available.
From spring to autumn, several companies are offering free-floating scooters, managed via smartphone, for convenient exploration of Annecy.
Walking, for hiking enthusiasts
For nature lovers and walkers, the hiking trails around Lake Annecy are a fantastic option. Numerous signposted paths offer panoramic views and routes suitable for all levels. Walking is a free activity that allows you to discover the local flora and fauna. Popular trails include the Roc de Chère, the Roselière de Duingt and the Semnoz. Maps and guides are available from reception at our campsites on Lake Annecy.