annecy – Alyssa in France

I have been to Annecy plenty of times, but I am never quite over the quaint beauty of this town. It was the first town in France I had visited actually, all my time previous to my first visit was spent in Geneva. So to me Annecy was like WOW. Everything I turned to look at I was like wow, there are canals and colors and bikes! Now, of course I am a little more seasoned so even though Annecy had still stood out to me, I’m not as easily pleased.

Something that has stayed true of my thoughts about Annecy is that is really is beautiful and quaint. I usually stay in the la vieille ville, there is something about being around really old buildings that makes me excited. Like, I can’t get super old building in Ohio. I need to appreciate them here and now.

band_annecy — A lively band plays in Annecy and the local residents come out to watch.

bridge_annecy — A serene bridge over a canal shows why this town is called “The Venice of France”

When I was visiting one time, there was a giant market going on. I love being able to buy jams, meat and fruit straight from the person who produced it. It also gave me a chance to practice my french. The people there would be pretty patient with me as I struggled to pronounce some names, but I came away knowing more and with armfuls of goodies.

fraise_annecy — Fresh jams for sale at a farmers market

houses_annecy — Beautiful buildings in Annecy

Of course there is the lake. In the summer, and I’m assuming a little into the fall as well, you can rent paddle boats, canoes, and boats. It was incredibly relaxing to be able be in the middle of the lake surrounded by laughing locals and tourists. You get out there and then when you look around it’s an incredible view. Both the huge mountains and the city around, very picturesque.