Things To Do
in Cran-Gévrier

Cran-Gévrier is a charming suburb located near Annecy, France, nestled between the stunning landscapes of the French Alps and the serene Lake Annecy. Known for its picturesque views and lush greenery, it offers a peaceful retreat while being conveniently close to the vibrant city of Annecy. The area is characterized by its friendly community, rich history, and an abundance of outdoor activities.

Visitors can enjoy a blend of cultural experiences and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for both relaxation and adventure.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Local Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local market in the heart of Cran-Gévrier, where you can experience the vibrant atmosphere and sample fresh produce.

afternoon
:

Take a leisurely hike in the nearby Parc des Jardins de l'Europe and enjoy the stunning views of Lake Annecy.

evening
:

Dine at a local bistro and indulge in traditional Savoyard dishes, followed by a stroll along the lakeside promenade.

day 2
Day 2: Outdoor Adventures
morning
:

Rent a bike and explore the scenic paths around Lake Annecy, stopping for coffee at a lakeside café.

afternoon
:

Visit the Château de Menthon-Saint-Bernard, a historic castle overlooking the lake, and enjoy the breathtaking views.

evening
:

Attend a local wine tasting event where you can sample wines from the Savoie region, paired with delicious cheeses.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍕Pizza$12
Coffee$3
🥖Baguette$1
🍷Glass of Wine$5
🏨Hotel Night$100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural scenery with easy access to outdoor activities.
  • Rich local culture and culinary delights.
  • Close proximity to the historic city of Annecy.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist seasons.
  • Transportation may be limited without a car.
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Où sont les toilettes?" - Where are the restrooms?
  • "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The check, please

Places to Visit in Cran-Gévrier

Visit one of these nice places.

Lakeside Promenade

A picturesque area along Lake Annecy, perfect for capturing the stunning views of the lake and mountains.

Château de Menthon-Saint-Bernard

This fairytale castle provides a stunning backdrop for photographs, especially at sunrise or sunset.

Parc des Jardins de l'Europe

A beautifully landscaped park with flower gardens and views of the lake, ideal for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Cran-Gévrier

Cran-Gévrier offers a delightful culinary experience, showcasing the flavors of the Savoy region with its rich and hearty dishes.

Cran-Gévrier Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Fondue Savoyarde

A classic cheese dish made with a blend of local cheeses, served with bread for dipping.

Must-Try!

Tartiflette

A creamy potato dish baked with reblochon cheese, lardons, and onions, perfect for warming up after a day outdoors.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Marché de Cran-Gévrier

A weekly market where local vendors sell fresh produce, cheeses, and artisan goods, providing a taste of the region.

Climate Guide

Weather

Cran-Gévrier experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters can be cold and snowy, with average temperatures ranging from -2°C to 5°C (28°F to 41°F), making it ideal for winter sports. Summers are warm and pleasant, averaging 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), perfect for outdoor activities. Spring and fall are mild, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F), offering beautiful natural scenery.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A polite greeting is essential; a simple 'Bonjour' before starting a conversation is customary.

Dining Etiquette

When dining, it's polite to keep both hands on the table (but not elbows) and to wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat.

Dress Code

Dress is generally smart-casual in restaurants and shops; avoid overly casual attire in more upscale places.

Safety Guide

Safety

Cran-Gévrier is generally a safe area with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping personal belongings secure. It's advisable to stay informed about local safety guidelines, especially during outdoor activities in the mountains.

Tipping in Cran-Gévrier

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

In France, it is customary to leave a small tip (around 5-10%) in restaurants if the service is not included in the bill.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments or markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and mild temperatures, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploring parks.

Summer

Summer is warm and sunny, perfect for lake activities like swimming and boating, but can be crowded with tourists.

Fall

Fall offers stunning foliage and cooler weather, ideal for hiking and enjoying the serene landscapes.

Winter

Winter is cold and snowy, providing opportunities for skiing and snowboarding in nearby resorts.

Nightlife Guide

Cran-Gévrier at Night

Cran-Gévrier offers a relaxed nightlife scene, with a few bars and bistros providing live music and a cozy atmosphere. While not as vibrant as larger cities, you can find intimate venues where locals gather to unwind. Popular spots often feature regional wines and craft beers, and during the summer months, outdoor terraces become lively gathering places.

Hiking in Cran-Gévrier

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sentier des Roselières

A scenic trail that runs along the marshes of Lake Annecy, offering easy hiking with beautiful views of the lake and wildlife.

Col de la Forclaz

A more challenging hike that rewards adventurers with panoramic views of Lake Annecy and the surrounding mountains.

Airports

How to reach Cran-Gévrier by plane.

Annecy Airport

Located approximately 10 km from Cran-Gévrier, Annecy Airport offers limited domestic flights and is a convenient option for travelers heading to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Cran-Gévrier is quite walkable, with many amenities, shops, and parks within walking distance. The area features pedestrian-friendly streets and sidewalks, making it easy for visitors to explore on foot. However, some attractions may be a bit farther apart, so a bike or car might be necessary for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Families

Cran-Gévrier is home to many young families attracted by its quality of life, educational facilities, and outdoor spaces.

Retirees

The area also has a significant population of retirees who enjoy the peaceful environment and recreational activities available.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Skiing

With nearby ski resorts in the Alps, skiing is a popular winter sport among locals and visitors alike.

Cycling

The region is well-known for cycling, particularly around Lake Annecy with dedicated bike paths and scenic routes.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Cran-Gévrier is generally manageable, but can become congested during peak hours, especially on routes leading to Annecy. Public transportation options include buses that connect to Annecy and surrounding areas, making it easy to navigate without a car. Walking and cycling are also popular and encouraged, especially around the lake.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Cran-Gévrier.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it’s advisable to check in advance.

Gluten-Free Choices

While gluten-free options are less common, some places can accommodate requests if informed ahead of time.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Cran-Gévrier is accessible, with local clinics and hospitals providing a range of services. The French healthcare system is known for its efficiency, and residents and visitors can typically receive prompt medical attention. It is advisable for travelers to have health insurance that covers international medical care.

Discover France

Read more in our France 2025 Travel Guide.

France Travel Guide