Almost four kilometres of lakeshore and a path that follows it on foot from one end of the commune to the other: Anthy-sur-Léman combines lakeside scenery with historical landmarks and a range of ways to spend time by the water. The former customs path runs along the shore; there are also designated natural areas, beaches and traces of local history. These different interests can be a useful starting point when choosing accommodation and planning your stay.
Lakeside Paths and Scenery
The almost four-kilometre stretch of lakeshore can be explored via the former customs path. The path follows the shore through the commune, offering a guide for anyone who wants to discover Anthy-sur-Léman on foot by the water. The protected status of part of the lakeside landscape is a separate matter: because of its ornithological importance, this area is designated as a Natura 2000 site and extends as far as the Golf de Coudrée.
Anthy-sur-Léman is also part of the Chablais UNESCO Global Geopark. The designation, awarded in 2012, recognises the exceptional geological and cultural heritage of Chablais, expressed in remarkable landscapes. The Fossaux stream, renaturalised within the Parc des Rives, is another example of landscape restoration. The protected area, geopark and restored stream describe different aspects of the surroundings and should not be confused with the route of the lakeside path.
Beaches and Time by the Water
The beaches differ in their described features and facilities. Champ de l'eau is a natural, landscaped beach on the lake. There you can swim, relax and enjoy the local flora and fauna. The Parc municipal des Rives has a grassy beach, where swimming is unsupervised. Lifeguard supervision may vary by season.
At two of the four beaches, professional operators offer stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking and pedal boating. Operators and seasonal availability may vary. So, as well as walking along the shore, you can choose activities on the water; however, the specific options depend on what is offered. If you would prefer a quieter time at the beach, consider the swimming and relaxation opportunities described at Champ de l'eau.
Church, Glacial Erratic and Local History
The Church of Saint-Barthélémy was built in 1882 on the site of an older chapel. It houses a bronze bell cast in Geneva in 1790 by Jean-Daniel Dreffet, which is listed as a historic monument, as well as a 15th-century polychrome Christ on the Cross, listed as historic cultural property. The church’s history and furnishings make it a distinctive part of Anthy-sur-Léman’s cultural heritage.
The agricultural past of the hamlet of Séchex can also be read in its streetscape: its traditional old centre and distinctive farmhouses bear witness to it. Another kind of historical evidence is the glacial erratic Pierre Vuarnet, also known as the Pierre des Sacrifices. Left behind by the Rhône Glacier, the rock has 44 cup marks on its surface facing the lake. The Pierre dite Pierre des Sacrifices was listed as a historic monument by decree dated 28 January 1907.
Market, Fish and Crossing the Commune
In summer, gourmet markets featuring local producers and artisans are held on Wednesdays at Plage des Recorts. Dates and programmes may change; check the latest market information before your visit. You can try fish caught in the lake, including whitefish and perch, directly from fishers or at lakeside restaurants. Availability depends on the fishers and restaurants.
For crossing the commune, the ViaRhôna offers a safe route through Anthy-sur-Léman. Together with the lakeside path, it provides another perspective on the commune: the former customs path follows the shore, while the ViaRhôna is for crossing the area. When planning, you can choose to focus on the lakeside, beach activities, local history or regional produce.
Discover more destinations: Villard, Saint-Jeoire, Saint-Pierre-En-Faucigny, Bloye, La Chapelle-D'abondance, Sallanches, Le Petit-Bornand-Les-Glières, Saint-Blaise
Back to the regional travel overview: Haute-Savoie.
