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Annecy has many monuments and locations of importance for tourists to explore. The Palais de l'Isle or "Old prison" is said to be one of the most photographed monuments in France and was constructed in the 12th century. Chateau d'Annecy previously home of the Dukes of Genevois-Nemours and Counts of Geneva, today houses the Regional Office of the Alpine Lakes as well as the Art and History Conservatory of Annecy.
Make your way to the commercial and political nucleus of Annecy at the Rue Royale which features many shops and gardens as well as the beautiful fountain of Saint-Jean. The gothic style church of Saint-Maurice dates back to the 15th century and contains paintings peculiar to that era. At the Basilique de la Visitation of the 20th century you will discover the tomb of Jeanne de Chantal and Francois de Sales.
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You may be interested in enjoying a boat excursion on the stunning Annecy Lake whilst viewing the mountains from a new perspective. Either join a cruise or hire a boat to survey the Annecy Lake. For the more adventurous, why not hit the slopes for some skiing fun.
When planning your holiday in Annecy, it is good to check out the hotels Annecy has to offer as these can vary from luxury hotels to hotel chains. Perhaps you would prefer a small chalet by the lake to a hotel in Annecy. There are some beautiful hotels at Lake Annecy though, so do your homework to find out what will suit you and your pocket.
Source: Virtual Country
Chamonix (approx. 2 h drive from Annecy)
The Aiguille du Midi Cable Car
The Aiguille du Midi cable car leaves from the centre of Chamonix. It is a journey of two stages. The first brings visitors to the Plan de l'Aiguille (2300m). The second stage traverses Les Pelerins glacier before rising up the North Face of the Aiguille du Midi.
Through 2014, you won't be able to cross the Alps from France to Italy by cable car, as the lift from Helbronner Point (near Mont Blanc) down to the Italian valley station of La Palud is closing for renovation. (You can still side-trip to Italy by bus from Chamonix to Aosta.) Gondolas will continue operating on the Mont Blanc lift up from Chamonix to the Aiguille du Midi and over to Helbronner — but only in summer and, even then, only in good weather.
Often in summer time it is possible to spot climbers on their way up this face towards the summit of the Aiguille du Midi. From the top station (at 3842m) the view of the Alps is incredible.
The top station of the Aiguille du Midi has several terraces where visitors can take in the spectacular views of the Swiss, French and Italian Alps. On a clear day it is possible to see the Matterhorn, Monta Rosa and the Grand Combin.
An elevator inside the rock rises the final 42m to the top terrace at 3842m. This is the closest you can get to the Mont Blanc without climbing.
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Check here for the dates and times of the Aiguille du Midi Cable Car!
Watch here LIVE the webcams of Chamonix.net, all the webcams of the Chamonix Valley, including the Aiguille du Midi webcam.
Source: Chamonix.net
With so much to do and see a holiday in Annecy, France, is certain to be unforgettable!
