24 Trips to Explore in 2024See the List
Duration
6 days
Activities
  • 6 day self guided cycle
Accommodation
  • 5 nights hotels
Meals
  • 5 Breakfasts

Price

$1350USD

 
 

Overview

Trip Code: GLA

Three Lakes Cycle: Geneva to Annecy Trip highlights


  • Beginning in Geneva with its beautiful water fountain
  • Leisurely ride in a scenic landscape against the backdrop of the Alps
  • Cycling past rolling vineyards in France
  • Arriving in the stunning surrounds of lake Annecy
  • Soaking up the fine hospitality of well located hotels

Cycling with the backdrop of the Alps does not always require you to be an elite cyclist. This carefully crafted cycle tour in the French Alps makes it possible for leisure riders to experience the breathtaking scenery of the Alps without taking all of your breath. Linking the three major lakes of the area - Lake Geneva, Lake Bourget, and Lake Annecy - the cycling route follows Rhône and Isère river paths, taking in historic villages, stunning natural scenery, lush meadows and valleys, and picturesque peaks along the way. Pack your swimsuit in case you can’t resist the call of the lake. Enjoy the hospitality of handpicked hotels and enjoy fine cuisine as you pedal between picturesque towns.

Trip Grading

moderate

More info about grading system

Make your own way to Geneva or Gaillard and check in to your first hotel. Our standard hotel, located in Gaillard, is 7km from the centre of Geneva on the French side. Our upgrade hotel is located near the lake in Geneva centre. Take the time to discover Geneva city, also known as the "capital of peace" with its humanitarian traditions. It's the home of international organisations, finance and culture and the delightful charm of old meets new. Enjoy a pleasant stroll along the lake, visit one of the various museums and enjoy the vast variety of restaurants on offer in what's considered the culinary capital of Switzerland.

Meals:  Nil

After breakfast, meet our local representative for collection of the bike, fitting and itinerary briefing. Highlights of today's route includes cycling along the famous Rhône River and admiring the views of the charming wine-making villages of Dardagny and Satigny. Conquer the westernmost point of Switzerland by bike past the village of Chancy and then cross the border into France. Be sure not to miss the Fort de l’Ecluse, an elevated fort founded by a Duke of Savoy. Your home for the night is in Seyssel, a small “doubletown” on the Rhone that lies in both the Haute-Savoie and the Ain regions. From Gaillard +740m / 2425ft, -880m / 2885ft From Geneva +680m / 2230ft, -820m / 2690ft

Meals:  B

The views on today’s ride are all encompassing. Marvel at the 14 summits of the Bauges mountain range on one side, as well as Mont de la Charvaz and Col-du-Chat on the other. Cycle along Lake Bourget (Lac du Bourget) which is the largest natural glacial lake and the deepest in France. Ride past the impressive site of the medieval Château de Montverran in Culoz, which was built on a rock in 1316 and, in more recent times, inspired the likes of Russian composer Sergei Prokofiev. Pedal on to the spa town of Aix-les-Bains, which was known for its baths as far back as the Roman Empire. This afternoon, explore the numerous Roman Ruins that remain in this idyllic town. +430m/1410 ft., -430m/1410 ft.

Meals:  B

Today, you’ll cycle through the heart of Savoy to Chambery, a town of art and history. Located in a wide valley between the Bauges and Chartreuse mountain ranges, at the crossroads of ancient trade routes, the old-town section of Chambery is one of the most remarkable in France. Along the way, take in the ruins of the 10th century fortress, Chateau de Miolans, which overlook the rich wine-growing region of the Combe de Savoie valley. The Isère River guides the route to Sainte-Hélène-sur-Isère for tonight's accommodation. Sainte-Hélène-sur-Isère is former medieval stronghold, now an agricultural city highlighting its' heritage and alpine environment. +680m/2,230 ft., -510m/1675 ft.

Meals:  B

On your last day, cycle to Grésy-sur-Isère by way of Albertville, situated on the Arly River. Albertville hosted the 1992 Winter Olympics and has become quite an industrial centre of the region, but it also encompasses the medieval town of Conflans, with architecture dating back to the 14th Century. Enjoy the panoramic views of the Beaufortain and Bauges mountain ranges as you cycle to the stunning Lake Annecy. The Aravis mountain range reigns over Europe’s cleanest lake; famous for its steep bends in the Tour de France. The town of Annecy, nestled on the northern tip of Lake Annecy, might remind you of Venice, with canals that cut through sections of the historic Alpine-style village. Spend the afternoon visiting the Palais de I 'Isle, a 12th Century prison on a small island or stroll along the 20th century Pont des Amours (Lover’s Bridge) made of iron. Have a dip in the lake or relax by the shores before enjoying dinner in one of the many great restaurants in town. +320m, 1,050 ft./-180m, 590 ft.

Meals:  B

The trip concludes after a leisurely breakfast in Annecy. If you would like to spend more time exploring the sights and sounds of Annecy, post-tour nights can be organised. Speak to one of our consultants for more details.

Meals:  B


Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.
On self guided trips, actual route information provided before departure will be more detailed.


Inclusions

  • 6 breakfasts, 2 dinners - generally buffet style with cereals, bread, cheese, meats, yoghurt, tea, coffee and juice. What is offered will change from hotel to hotel. Dinner will generally consist of 3 courses, usually starting with a salad, followed by a chicken, red meat, fish or pasta dish & finishing with a dessert of fruit or cakes.
  • 4 nights accommodation in 2 star hotels and 1 night in a 3 star hotel on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities (option to upgrade to 1 night 4 star, 3 nights 3 star and 1 night 2 star hotels - supplement applies)
  • hybrid rental bike with pannier, handlebar bag and bike insurance (gravel, carbon and electric bikes available on request - supplement applies). Hybrid bikes are provided with a helmet, seat pouch, lock, pump, repair kit, multi tool, spare tube, water bottle cage, handle bar bag and one rear pannier. Other bikes have different inclusions. If you are using cleats you are required to bring your own pedals and a wrench with which to retrieve the pedals post-tour.
  • Luggage transfer (one piece max 20kgs)
  • Marked maps and/or roadbook (paper and/or app), Pre-loaded GPS unit (subject to availability) or navigation app to download to your phone
  • Emergency hotline
  • personal welcome and trip briefing
  • all taxes and service charges

  • Arrangements for arrival in Geneva and departure from Annecy
  • Beverages, lunches and dinners daily
  • Items of a personal nature - eg. phone calls, laundry etc.
  • Travel insurance - this is compulsory
  • Tour guide - this is a self guided trip
  • Entrance fees
  • Transfers
  • A supplement will apply if you are travelling solo or book a single room

Bike information


Trail Surface


Grading

moderate  

During the 4 days of cycling the daily routes are between 29 and 70 kilometres / 15.5 and 43 miles. Daily ascents are from 320m to 740m (1050ft to 2425 ft). The cycling is a mix of dedicated cycle ways (45%), quiet roads often with bike lanes (40%), main roads usually with bike lanes (6%) and urban roads (9%). A good level of cycle fitness is required. Alternatively consider an ebike (a good level of cycling proficiency will still be required). In order to prepare for this trip you will need to be comfortable cycling for extended periods, sometimes with traffic around you (sometimes unavoidable going in to and leaving towns). Pre trip you should exercise 3 times per week with some cycling mixed in to your usual exercise regime.


Departure dates

Friday or Sunday from 1 Apr to 15 Oct

Want to organise a private group?

Fundraising events, sporting groups, family treats; learn how you can organise a Private Group from just 6 travellers.

Priceper person from

$1350USD

Options & Supplements*
  • Gravel Bike SupplementUSD$16
  • Carbon Road Bike SupplementUSD$49
  • E Bike SupplementUSD$90
  • Hotel Upgrade SupplementUSD$180
  • Single SupplementUSD$350
*Prices listed are per person

Three Lakes Cycle: Geneva to Annecy Trip reviews


Why travel with us

Making Europe Affordable

We offer different levels of accommodation and comfort so that even the most budget conscious can treat themselves to active holidays on Europe's most celebrated tracks and trails. Our trips are great value for money because you only pay for what you want.  

Self-Guided Specialists

Our wide range of self-guided itineraries embody the UTracks philosophy of exploring Europe your way. We handle the logistics so all that's left for you to do is enjoy exploring Europe at your own pace. Most depart daily with a minimum of two people, meaning maximum flexibility.

Our Wide Range

With close to 400 trips in almost 50 countries, including the largest range of bike & boat holidays in Europe, we're confident that we can organise an Alps walk, Camino de Santiago or Via Francigena experience, Food Lovers' trip or a tour in a lesser-known pocket of Europe that you will love. 

Similar trips

Suggested extensions

Join Newsletter
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/ADS.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Adventures South"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Adventure South</div>
Adventure South NZ is unrivalled in their geographic coverage, originality and overall quality of adventures holidays in New Zealand. Choose from walking, cycling, winter or multi-activity holidays, on either the North or South Island.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/AWH.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Australian Walking Holidays"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Australian Walking Holidays</div>
Australian Walking Holidays specialises in small group guided walking adventures. Since 1982 we have been guiding small groups of travellers on Australia's finest walks across our tropical, coastal or red centre landscapes.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/GCT.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Great Canadian Trails"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Great Canadian Trails</div>
Great Canadian Trails specialises in active holidays in Canada. With both guided and supported self-guided options available, our unique itineraries draw upon some of Canada's most inspiring parks, trails and landscapes from coast to coast.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/HUM.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Humac Challenge"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Huma Charity Challenge</div>
Huma enables those with adventurous spirits to challenge themselves and make a difference for a cause close to their heart. Travel, fundraise and meet life-long friends on one of Huma's meaningful and unique challenges around the world.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WB.jpg?v2' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Walkers’ Britain"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Walkers' Britain</div>
Walkers' Britain (formerly Sherpa Expeditions) have specialised in walking and cycling trips in the United Kingdom and Europe since 1973. Explore iconic trails and destinations on a self guided or small group active holiday with Walkers' Britain.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WB.jpg?v2' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Walkers’ Britain"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Walkers' Britain</div>
Walkers' Britain (formerly Sherpa Expeditions) have specialised in walking and cycling trips in the United Kingdom and Europe since 1973. Explore iconic trails and destinations on a self guided or small group active holiday with Walkers' Britain.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/TAS.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Tasmania Expeditions"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Tasmanian Expeditions</div>
Tasmanian Expeditions is the most experienced operator of treks and adventure travel holidays in Tasmania. We own and operate the most comprehensive range of adventure holidays available across Tasmania's varied landscapes.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/UTX-new.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Utracks"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>UTracks</div>
UTracks are the active European holiday specialists. Whether you prefer cycling or walking, 2-star or 4-star, small groups or self guided, land, river or sea – UTracks can help you to explore Europe exactly the way you want.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WYA.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="World Expeditions Schools"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>World Expeditions Schools</div>
World Expeditions Schools is our specialist division dedicated to organising tailor made overseas school group adventures. Specialists in Service Learning projects, choose from more destinations than any other school group provider.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/YOM.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Yomads"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Yomads</div>
Yomads offers adventures for the 20s and 30s on six continents. Designed as a way to bring young and likeminded travellers together, Yomads caters to those interested in lightly structured and active trips that allow freedom to roam and explore.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/ACT.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Australian Cycle Tours"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Australian Cycle Tours</div>
Australian Cycle Tours specialises in high quality self guided and guided cycling experiences in a selection of the most beautiful regions in Australia.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WEX.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="World Expeditions"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>World Expeditions</div>
The pioneers of original, worldwide adventure travel holidays since 1975
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/TJX.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Trail Journeys"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Trail Journeys</div>
Self-guided cycling experts on New Zealand's Otago Rail Trail and more
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/BMAC.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Blue Mountains Adventure Company"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Blue Mountains Adventure Company</div>
The original Blue Mountains canyoning, hiking, climbing and abseiling experts
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/GWNZ.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Great Walks of New Zealand"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Great Walks of New Zealand</div>
Explore New Zealand's most spectacular wilderness regions with the self-guided hiking experts
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/NAA.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="North America Active"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>North America Active</div>
USA Canada hiking & cycling tour specialists, choose from self-guided or guided trips