Annecy

After six hours of driving we pulled off the highway into Annecy, which is located in the southeastern part of the country. (I should mention that we were not warned ahead of time, but Annecy is slightly confusing to navigate in a car. There didn't seem to be one main street, but a criss-crossing of one way streets. Eventually, we found our hostel, but I'll admit we drove around for awhile - and most likely drove by it a few times.)

Anyway, we ended up staying at the Alexandra Hotel. This place was perfectly located in the middle of town, close to restaurants and provided free parking underground nearby. We also really enjoyed this hotel because of the amazing service and the very filling breakfast they provided each morning.

Now, the reason we chose to stay in Annecy was strictly because of the beautiful Lake Annecy. Lake Annecy is the second largest lake in France and deemed as the cleanest lake in Europe. I can't describe how beautiful and blue this lake was. In order to truly enjoy the the lake and the surrounded trees and hills, we decided to go hiking our first day. According to Rick Steves' France guidebook we were able to find a trail and followed as it winded along the lake.
After hiking for a few hours, we decided to try one of Annecy's favorite meals: Raclette. I'm not sure how to describe this meal, other than I sort of want it to be my last meal if I'm ever on death row. It was amazing. Raclette consists of Raclette cheese being heated, either in front of a fire or by a special machine, then scraped onto your plate with small potatoes, ham and a small salad. In addition, to this delicious meal is always bread that is by far the best in the world. We enjoyed not only eating this meal, but preparing it at our table and taking our time enjoying the experience. If you travel to Annecy find Chez Mamie Lise Restaurant, which is right next to a beautiful canal and try Raclette. You won't be disappointed.

Here you can see the stove you are given to cook the cheese. On top you cook the potatoes.

Our last day in Annecy we decided to rent some bikes and ride around the lake. I can't remember the exact company we rented from, but I do remember it was near Chez Mamie Lise Restaurant, and it wasn't expensive.

Again, I can't emphasize enough how beautiful Lake Annecy was, and how fun it was to explore the surrounded towns and farms along the way. If you decide to rent bikes, don't feel like you have to be an expert rider. There's a very smooth bike path that travels almost half around the lake. It provides about an hour ride, and there are restaurants and picnic tables along the way.
If you are looking for a change from museums and large cities, Annecy is the perfect stop.