Getting married in Annecy: a wedding by the lake

The turquoise lake, the mountains as a backdrop, the old town and its canals: Annecy is one of the most spectacular wedding settings in France. Such a setting is worth the effort — here are our tips.

The most beautiful venues

• The lakeshores : estates and hotels with private piers, from Veyrier to Talloires — the ultimate postcard view, book very early.
• The old town : ceremony and photos along the flowered canals, reception in a venue full of character.
• Mountain pastures and high-altitude chalets : at Semnoz or near La Clusaz, a chic mountain wedding, accessible in summer and winter.
• Savoyard castles : Menthon-Saint-Bernard and its surroundings for a fairytale setting.

The right season

• June and September : the winning duo — the lake at its best, soft light, prices a bit more flexible than in July-August.
• Summer : stunning but highly in demand (and crowded with tourists): book 18 months in advance for a Saturday by the lake.
• Winter : a snow-and-chalet wedding, intimate and magical — think about 4x4 shuttles and a heated cloakroom.

Budget: anticipate the 'lake view' premium

Venues with a view or direct lake access carry a real premium. To reduce it: favor a Friday, mid-season, or an estate 10 minutes from the lake with a photoshoot on the shores the next morning, when the quays are deserted.

The photo tip

Plan a photo slot at sunrise or at the end of the day on the Pâquier or at the Pont des Amours: golden light, no crowds. Your local photographer will know the best spots depending on the season.

On DreamWeds, find wedding vendors in Annecy and in Haute-Savoie — lake-view venues, photographers, florists — and request quotes online.