1. Tour of the Lake via the mountain peaks

No need for us to make a map of the classic lake tour. However, take advantage of some scenic roads, gain altitude at the Col de la Forclaz, and finish with a Semnoz climb offering views of Mont Blanc – we're talking a 5-star map.

This challenging trail will reward your efforts with memories.

The route starts gently along the lake shore, then you take the scenic road above Veyrier for a gentle warm-up and a view that sets the tone. The route then joins the road to the Col de Bluffy, a steady climb with a gentle gradient, where you can enjoy the view of Menthon Castle before reaching the foot of the Col de la Forclaz.

The first real challenge of this ride. You still have 7km to go, including the last three at an average gradient of 10%. Remember to look to your right at the elevation you've gained since the lakeside. But most importantly, once you've passed the sign, don't stop there; turn right at the viewpoint to take the time to admire the view. From the summit, you can already see the peak of Semnoz, which awaits you later.

Cover yourself on the descent from the Col de la Forclaz towards Montmin.

Be careful in summer, the road is narrow and there are many paragliding trucks. Once at the bottom you can refill your water bottles at the fountain before enjoying a short flat section to return towards Annecy, stretch your legs and recharge before the next challenges.

Upon reaching St. Jorioz, after about ten kilometers of flat terrain, you turn left to climb to the Col de Leschaux via Le Puget (one of the four sides). Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this small pass and remember to turn around occasionally to admire the view. The climb is gradual, with a short descent adding a bit of fun for those less inclined to climb. Once at the top of the Col de Leschaux, you can always turn right and descend gently towards Annecy.

But the real objective here lies elsewhere. The trail continues straight ahead; you'll see the sign: “Ascent of Semnoz, 13.5 km”. Steady at first, with long straight stretches allowing you to enjoy the views of the Bauges mountains and the lake, you then enter the forest, which initially seems easier, but don't hold on to your energy because the road climbs again 4 km from the finish, and there are a few tricky bends left before you emerge from the forest to discover the summit of Semnoz, which awaits you 1.5 km higher.

Enjoy this final, easier straightaway, the view of the bends below and especially the Tournette and Mont Blanc opposite!

Just take a few photos, bundle up, and the long 18km descent awaits you towards Annecy. You'll plunge straight into the city center at the end to enjoy an après-ride drink on a terrace!

The (many) bonuses of this map:

- the balcony road of Veyrier.

- the view from the Col de la Forclaz.

- the climb up the Leschaux pass with the view of the lake.

- the ascent of Semnoz via the quieter side.

- the view from the top of Semnoz.

- the beautiful, fast descent to Annecy.

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2.Lake Tour (++ version)

Starting from Annecy, head towards the lakefront in the direction of Sévrier. After 5km, just enough time to warm up, turn right to reach the start of the Col de Leschaux. 10km at an average gradient of 4%, with perfect consistency – THE climb to get your legs going, do some warm-up exercises, chat, or even attempt a personal best! At the start of the climb, you can enjoy the view of the lake and the mountains on the left bank before heading into the forest.

Once you reach the top, turn left to enjoy the descent and the breathtaking view overlooking the lake! (clearly one of the best views). There's a slight uphill section at the beginning and middle, but it's not very long and it's definitely worth it!

Once at the foot of the pass, turn right to finish with a loop around the lake, and don't forget the climb to Talloires. An improved version of the lake loop, perfect for getting back into shape at the start of the season, a midweek ride, or an end-of-day outing!

The bonuses of this map:

- the Leschaux pass via Annecy, the best possible introduction to a mountain pass.

- the descent via Puget, a breathtaking view.

- the lake shore by Angon.

- the climb to Talloires.

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3. The unknown

Don't bother looking for the Col de la Frasse on cycling websites or in the Tour de France annals. It's an out-and-back climb, as there's no way out at the top, and it's rarely used, which makes it a pleasant ride, in addition to the numerous viewpoints it offers. But be warned, the Col de la Frasse is not an easy climb!

We offer you a flexible map, around Lake Annecy, so that you can still move your legs and chat.

Starting from Annecy, head towards Sévrier to follow the lake shore. A warm-up of just over 10km, then turn right just before the village of Duingt. The road climbs immediately and continues to do so for almost 10km! The road surface has been recently resurfaced, making it a pleasure to ride, and as you gain altitude, you can enjoy beautiful views of the lake.

At the village of Entrevernes, you're halfway there and can turn back. Or, follow the trail and turn right before leaving the village to continue up the pass to the summit. The road narrows slightly, the tarmac deteriorates, and you arrive in the wildest part of the pass where new landscapes unfold before you. Don't think you've arrived when the road descends slightly at the end; there's still 500 meters of climbing ahead. Don't expect a sign or a refreshment stand at the top; you've reached the start of a dead-end hike. But you can enjoy the tranquility of the place and congratulate yourself on your effort!

Be careful on the descent, the road is winding. Once at the bottom of the pass, you can either return directly to Annecy and back, or follow the marked trail and enjoy a stretch around the lake to stretch your legs and rack up the kilometers. You still have the climb to Talloires to tackle one last challenge.Then it's freewheeling until Annecy where refueling will be well deserved!

The bonuses of this map:

- A little-known pass because it's a dead end, in a quiet location.

- Unique views of Lake Annecy.

- Easily accessible from Annecy.

- alternative return via the Bluffy pass.

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