The 4 unknown routes around Annecy!

In Annecy, we love exploring different routes while avoiding the crowded roads. That's why we've put together a selection of must-see itineraries so you can enjoy the region's stunning scenery in complete peace and quiet.

Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned cyclist, these carefully selected routes will allow you to fully enjoy your outing. We'd also be happy to welcome you for a coffee before your departure or to discuss your experience upon your return.

1- An outing that will remain in the memories:

• Starting from the clubhouse, your route begins with a short urban crossing made easier by the well-developed network of cycle paths that quickly take you out of Annecy.

• After this warm-up, you'll tackle the first climb: a steady 10 km climb to Aviernoz. Once at the top, a short descent prepares you for the climb to the Glières plateau.

Indeed, this trail takes you on the historical trail of the Glières Plateau, famous for its crucial role during the Second World War. In 1944, this plateau became a stronghold for around 500 maquisards, French resistance fighters opposed to the Nazi occupation and the Vichy regime. The Battle of Glières in March 1944 was a key moment: attacked by German and Vichy forces, the resistance fighters demonstrated exceptional bravery despite heavy losses. Every year, the plateau hosts commemorative ceremonies in memory of these heroes of the French Resistance.

• This demanding 8.8 km climb with an average gradient of 7.7% is followed by a section on a road bike path before descending towards Glières-Val-de-Borne.

• Your route continues with a gentler, more steady climb to Saint-Jean-de-Sixt, passing through the Borne Valley. This is followed by a long descent into the Thônes Valley. You'll then take small, balcony roads that will lead you to Dingy-Saint-Claire, while avoiding the often-busy main road.
  
  
• You conclude this outing with the Col de Bluffy and a 4.4 km climb at an average gradient of 2%. The ensuing descent is a true reward for your efforts, offering a final chance to admire the turquoise waters of Lake Annecy and the surrounding mountains before returning to the Clubhouse.

Variant via the Col des Fleuries:

This variation begins with the same well-known route to the Glières Plateau. Descending from this plateau, turn left at the bottom of the descent to Glières-Val-de-Borne, unlike the previous version where you turned right. This choice extends your scenic descent into the Borne Valley, taking you to Saint-Pierre-en-Faucigny.

• After a valley section, you'll encounter a small hill towards La-Roche-sur-Foron. While this section isn't particularly difficult, it prepares you for the second climb of the route, the Col des Fleuries.

• The climb to the Col des Fleuries begins after La-Roche-sur-Foron. At 8 km and averaging a gradient of 4.5%, this pass doesn't seem too daunting at first glance.However, after the ascent of the Glières, this segment can become more demanding than expected.

After crossing the Col des Fleuries, you'll have one last climb to climb to Les Ollières. This final challenge will then lead you downhill to Annecy, where you can celebrate the end of your outing with a refreshment at the Clubhouse!

2- Discovering Lake Bourget and its heights:

If you're passionate about cycling and looking for a challenging route, look no further. We offer a route that combines physical activity, breathtaking views, and the discovery of the gems of the Savoy region. Prepare for a memorable adventure starting from our Clubhouse.

• This outing begins with a 6 km climb which will take you to Quintal along the Semnoz massif.

• After reaching Quintal, a long descent awaits you to the outskirts of Aix-les-Bains.

• Your route will then take you along the magnificent Lac du Bourget, particularly after crossing the small hill of Tresserve.

• You then continue with the Col du Chat, a demanding climb of nearly 7 km with an average gradient of 6%. Once you reach the hamlet of the pass, you will continue to the right to take a balcony road with breathtaking views of the lake. You can also reach the summit of the Col du Chat by turning left and then retrace your steps to catch up with the initial route.

• Once on the balcony road, you'll begin a long descent punctuated by a few slides. This varied section will take you to Châtillon, on the other side of Lake Bourget, where a short, flat section awaits.

• After Châtillon, the ascent of the Col de la Chambotte looms, with its 5 km and an average gradient of 8%.

• After a short descent to Lassy, ​​you'll turn left to tackle a small climb to Laval. From there, a long downhill section will take you to Rumilly.

The end of this outing will take you to the heights of Annecy via Poisy via a slight uphill section. Once you've overcome this final challenge, you'll head back down to the Clubhouse where a well-deserved gourmet treat awaits.

Variant via the Sapenay pass:

For cycling enthusiasts looking for a great challenge, we offer a variation of our classic route around Lake Bourget from Annecy. This variant via the Col du Sapeney offers a road less frequented by cars, unlike the route via Chambotte, which is often more congested.

• The route remains the same until Châtillon, where instead of turning right for the Col de la Chambotte, you will turn left to head towards the Col du Sapenay. This climb is 8 km long with an average gradient of 7.5%.

After reaching the summit of the Col du Sapenay, a descent will take you to Laval, where you will join the classic route.From there, you will continue towards Rumilly, Hauteville-sur-Fier, then the heights of Annecy via Poisy, before returning to the Clubhouse for some well-deserved refreshment.

3- Discovering the Annecy hinterland and Mont Salève.

This time, we're heading north to Mont Salève! Departing from the Clubhouse, a meeting point for cycling enthusiasts, for a day full of adventure between city and mountain.

• Start your day by heading out of Annecy towards Epagny. The first climb awaits you along the Mandallaz River. Although short, this steep climb will test you from the start.

• After crossing the first hill, prepare for the 12-km climb up Mont Salève with an average gradient of 4.7%. During this climb, you'll be able to enjoy panoramic views of Lake Geneva and Lake Annecy.

• At the summit, enjoy a quick and refreshing descent to Menthonnex-en-Bornes.

The return to Annecy is a succession of climbs and descents to the Clubhouse where a well-deserved refreshment awaits you!

4- Cycling Route: Discovering the Bauges from the Clubhouse

• Start your cycling adventure from the Clubhouse, the ideal starting point for cyclists in Annecy. Take the cycle path along Lake Annecy towards Sevrier.

• In Sevrier, prepare to begin the ascent of the Col de Leschaux. This 12 km climb with an average gradient of 4% is perfect for warming up. It's not too difficult, allowing you to find your rhythm and appreciate the surrounding landscape. The road is gentle and offers beautiful views of the mountains.

• Once you reach the summit of the Col de Leschaux, a pleasant descent awaits you to Bellecombe en Bauges. This section of the route allows you to recover while enjoying the descent.

• Next, tackle the Col de Plainpalais. With its 12.5km at an average gradient of 4.5%, this climb is more demanding than the previous one. You'll pass through picturesque landscapes and pass through La Féclaz, famous for its cross-country ski trails. This climb is a real challenge, but worth every pedal stroke.

• Continue your climb to Revard, the highest point of your outing. Here, the reward is a splendid view of Lake Bourget. It's the perfect place to take a break, enjoy the panorama, and regain your strength before heading back down.

The return to Annecy is via Quintal. This part of the route is more relaxed, with a succession of small hills and moderate climbs. It's a great way to end your outing, gradually returning to the Clubhouse where a well-deserved refreshment awaits!