Things To Do
in Poisy
Poisy is a tranquil commune just west of Annecy, set among rolling hills with views of the Alpine arc. It blends rural charm, a historic church, and a modest market scene that reflects Savoyard traditions. Its proximity to Lake Annecy and the Semnoz mountains makes it an ideal base for outdoor adventures and easy day trips to the town and lakefront.
In Poisy you’ll experience a relaxed Savoyard atmosphere with convenient access to one of France’s premier alpine regions.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Poisy and settle into your accommodations. Take a leisurely stroll through the quaint streets, soaking in the architecture and charm of this picturesque town. Stop at a local café for a French pastry and coffee to start your day.
Visit the nearby Annecy, just a short drive or bus ride away, to explore its stunning canals and vibrant markets. Enjoy lunch by the waterfront while sampling local specialties. Spend your afternoon wandering through Annecy's old town, taking photos of the iconic Palais de l'Isle.
Return to Poisy and dine at a traditional Savoyard restaurant, where you can savor fondue or raclette. After your meal, enjoy a relaxing walk through the town’s illuminated streets. Take in the serene atmosphere as you wind down your first day.
Start your day by visiting the local museum in Poisy to learn about the history and culture of the region. Engage with the exhibits and participate in any available workshops or guided tours. Enjoy a light breakfast at a nearby bakery afterward.
Join a guided tour hike in the surrounding mountains, perfect for taking in the breathtaking views of the French Alps. Spend your afternoon engulfed in nature, breathing the fresh mountain air and enjoying a picnic lunch amidst the scenery. Capture the essence of the landscape with some photography.
Once back in Poisy, unwind with a casual dinner at a bistro. Share your hiking stories over a glass of local wine and some appetizers. Conclude the night with a stroll under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🥖Loaf of bread | $1-2 |
| 🛌Hotel per night | $120-200 |
| 🚲Bike rental | $15-30 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close to Annecy and the Alps with easy access to outdoor activities
- Calm, family-friendly atmosphere with traditional Savoyard cuisine
- Limited nightlife within Poisy itself; more options require a short drive to Annecy
- Smaller town ambiance may mean fewer specialized services compared to bigger cities
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est la toilette ?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Combien ça coûte ?" - How much does it cost?
- "Je voudrais..." - I would like...
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The check, please
- "Pouvez-vous recommander un plat végétarien ?" - Can you recommend a vegetarian dish?
- "Où est... ?" - Where is...?
Places to Visit in Poisy
Visit one of these nice places.
A vineyard terrace on the hillside above Poisy offering sweeping views of the valley and Mont Blanc on clear days.
An elevated path among vineyards with winding stone walls and seasonal grape colors, ideal for golden hour photography.
A quiet riverside stretch near Poisy with reflections of the trees and sky, especially photogenic at dawn.
A short drive toward Annecy provides vantage points over Lake Annecy with the mountains as a dramatic backdrop.
Food in Poisy
Poisy Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A cheesy, potato-forward dish made with reblochon cheese, onions, and lardons. Look for it in traditional Savoyard brasseries.
Must-Try!
A shared pot of melted cheese (usually a blend of cheeses like Comté, Beaufort, and Appenzeller) served with bread for dipping.
Melted cheese scraped onto potatoes, pickles, and onions; a cozy choice for cooler evenings.
Small square pasta often served in a cheese sauce or with mushrooms and lardons.
Savoyard sausages braised in white wine, commonly served with polenta or potatoes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly farmers market showcasing local cheeses, charcuterie, vegetables, bread, and seasonal specialties; great for sampling and picking up picnic supplies.
A short drive away, this bustling market offers a wider array of produce, seafood, and prepared foods—perfect for a day trip.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Say ‘Bonjour’ (or ‘Bonsoir’) to shopkeepers and staff; use ‘Madame/Monsieur’ when addressing adults. A polite, modest tone is appreciated.
Keep hands on the table (not on laps) and wait to begin until everyone is served or offered the first bite; use polite language when requesting items.
Quiet conversation in residential areas, especially in the evenings; avoid loud disturbances near homes and during meals at small eateries.
Safety
Tipping in Poisy
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charge is often included in the bill in larger establishments; rounding up the total or leaving a small tip (around 5-10% for good service) is common but not obligatory.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blossoming orchards; bring a light jacket for cool mornings and evenings. Cafés and markets begin to bustle again after winter.
Warm days with refreshing lake activities nearby; expect longer daylight hours and crowded lakesides around Annecy. Sunscreen and hydration are essential.
Crisp air and colorful foliage; ideal for hikes around Semnoz and vineyard photography. Harvest season brings seasonal produce to markets.
Cool to cold with occasional snow in the mountains; indoor dining and fireside atmospheres in local eateries are common. Shorter days but cozy seasonal charm.
Poisy at Night
Hiking in Poisy
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular high-altitude area with expansive views, alpine meadows, and multiple trail options.
A historic pass offering dramatic lake views and access to paragliding takeoffs.
A more challenging hike with rewarding panoramas over the Léman region on clear days.
Airports
How to reach Poisy by plane.
Approximately 60 minutes by car; major international hub with frequent connections across Europe and beyond.
Close regional airport with seasonal and short-haul flights; convenient for accessing the Savoy region.
A larger international airport about 2 hours away by car or train, offering extensive European connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A family-friendly town with safe streets, parks, and easy access to schools and services.
Many residents commute to Annecy or nearby towns; quieter neighborhoods attract retirees.
Close to the lake and mountains, Poisy draws visitors seeking nature and regional cuisine.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Flat lakeside paths and nearby mountains make cycling a year-round favorite.
Trails around Semnoz and Col de la Forclaz attract hikers and nature lovers.
Nearby alpine resorts provide winter sports opportunities within a short drive.
Gentle stretches of Lake Annecy are ideal for water sports and scenic paddling.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Poisy.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Savoyard dishes feature cheese and vegetables; ask for cheese-topped crozets or vegetable-forward plates. In most dining rooms you can request alternatives to meat-based components and accommodate dairy preferences with grilled vegetables or mushroom dishes.