The Annecy area brings together an unusually wide range of landscapes: crystal-clear lakes, flower-filled alpine pastures, beech and fir forests, and limestone ridges with 360° views of Mont Blanc, the Aravis and the Jura. In less than 30 minutes from the town centre, you can reach marked trails for every level.
The moderate altitude (500 to 2,500 m) makes hiking possible almost all year round, while the Bauges UNESCO Global Geopark label helps preserve a unique natural and geological heritage. For businesses, these routes are an ideal setting for team-building seminars that combine shared effort, pushing your limits and relaxed time in the great outdoors.
To the east of the lake, the Bornes massif offers a dense network of trails. Mont Veyrier (1,291 m) and Mont Baron (1,295 m) overlook Annecy and deliver sweeping views across the lake. Allow 2.5 to 3 hours for the round trip from the Col des Contrebandiers.
Further north, the Tournette (2,351 m), the massif’s highest point, is a popular challenge for experienced hikers. The climb from Chalet de l’Aulp (6–7 hours return) rewards the effort with a dramatic view over the whole of Lake Annecy.
To the west, the Bauges massif stands out for its wild, protected character. The trails are less busy, making it a great choice for anyone after calm and immersion. Semnoz (1,699 m) is the ideal gateway, reachable by car or mountain bike, with marked routes leading to the ridges and alpine pastures.
Mont Trélod (2,181 m) and Arcalod (2,217 m) appeal to experienced hikers looking for height gain and solitude. In winter, snowshoe hikes find a particularly good playground here.
Bout du Lac Nature Reserve: 1.5 hours, flat, ideal with children. Bird observatory and reed beds.
Angon Waterfall: 1 hour return, 100 m of elevation gain. Shaded path leading to a 60 m waterfall.
Semnoz viewpoint: drive up + 30 minutes on foot. Panoramic views with minimal effort.
These routes offer an easy first step into hiking in Annecy, with no technical difficulty. They are perfect for a relaxed outing or a light team-building activity.
Mont Veyrier from Annecy-le-Vieux: 3 hours, 700 m ascent. Forest path followed by an airy ridge.
Col de la Forclaz – Roc des Boeufs: 2.5 hours, 400 m ascent. Outstanding view over the lake.
Ermitage de Saint-Germain: 2 hours, 300 m ascent. Historic site and viewpoint over Talloires.
These hikes balance moderate effort with rewarding views, making them ideal for a half-day outing or an introductory trail run.
La Tournette via Chalet de l’Aulp: 6–7 hours, 1,100 m ascent. Equipped rocky sections and an unforgettable summit view.
Pointe de la Sambuy: 5 hours, 900 m ascent. Panoramic ridge in the Bauges.
Dents de Lanfon: 6 hours, 1,200 m ascent. A demanding route for experienced hikers only.
These climbs call for fitness, suitable kit and mountain experience. They make ambitious goals for incentive seminars focused on pushing your limits.
Several trails showcase the beauty of Lake Annecy: the GR96 (Lake circuit), the Rochers de Duingt trail, and the climb to Mont Veyrier all deliver sweeping views over turquoise water and the surrounding mountains.
Beyond Angon Waterfall, explore the Fier Gorges (a developed trail), Morette Waterfall or the Ire springs. These routes combine summer freshness with geological discovery.
Some trails lead to alpine chapels, traditional chalets or historic sites: the Ermitage de Saint-Germain, the Chalets de l’Aulp, or the villages of Thônes and Le Grand-Bornand. It is a chance to combine physical effort with cultural discovery during an eco-responsible seminar.
Mid-cut hiking boots, walking poles, layered clothing (technical layer + fleece + windproof jacket), water (at least 1.5 L), energy snacks, a first-aid kit, an IGN map or GPS app (3531 OT Annecy, 3432 OT Massif des Bauges).
Always check the weather forecast before setting off (Météo France Montagne). If thunderstorms are expected, leave the ridges straight away. Tell someone your route and expected return time. In winter, check avalanche risk updates (BERA scale) and choose easy hikes or guided outings.
Stay on marked paths, do not pick flowers (protected species), take your litter home, and keep dogs on a lead in pastoral areas. The Bauges massif is a UNESCO Geopark: its protection depends on everyone’s behaviour.
For companies looking to bring their teams together around a memorable outdoor experience, Annecy Aventure creates tailor-made seminars combining hiking, team building and relaxed shared moments. Several formats are available:
Half-day discovery: guided ascent of Mont Veyrier, group debrief at the summit, return and lunch by the lake.
Incentive day: morning hike to an alpine chalet, Savoyard lunch, collaborative activities in the afternoon (navigation, team challenges).
2–3 day trek: crossing the Bauges or the Bornes with nights in mountain huts, organised baggage transfer and professional guidance.
Each programme includes a weather backup plan, turnkey logistics (transfers, meals, kit) and a strict eco-responsible approach (no motorised vehicles on site, local suppliers, carbon offsetting).
“Hiking as a group creates genuine bonds: sharing the effort, helping each other on the climb, and celebrating together at the top. It is a powerful driver of team cohesion.” — Annecy Aventure guide
Would you like to organise a team-building seminar that brings together nature, a shared challenge and discovery of the Annecy area? Contact Annecy Aventure and let’s build a tailor-made programme that fits your goals and your team.