Semnoz is the most accessible riding area in the Annecy region, rising directly above the southern edge of town. You can reach the trailhead by bike from the city centre in under 20 minutes, making it the obvious first stop for anyone who wants to ride without driving.

Trail elevation

Not every ride on the Semnoz requires a big day out. Shorter loops with as little as 400 metres of elevation are available, which makes it a practical option after work or when the weather window is short. For those who want more, the plateau tops out above 1,700 metres with views across the lake and into the Mont Blanc massif.

Trail difficulty

The trail network covers a wide range of terrain and difficulty, from flowing blue singletracks to demanding black runs. That range makes it genuinely useful for groups of mixed ability, and for riders who want to progress over multiple visits.

Riding season

The lower elevation trails near Annecy are rideable year-round and dry out quickly after rain. Rides above 1000m are usually snow-free from April to November.

Trail Map

Semnoz Tips

Parking

There is parking at the Basilica as well as the Les Puisots picnic area on Semnoz.

Water and Toilets

The Les Puisots picnic area has both drinking water and toilets, which are usually open.

There are also toilets and drinking water at the top of Semnoz, near the bottom of the ski station. They may not be accessible if the lifts are closed.

Semnoz Recommended Routes

Small Semnoz Ride

This route starts in Annecy and climbs on the road to the Basilica and trailhead.

From the trailhead, this route climbs the western side of Semnoz on Sentier de sous les Becs and the western crest trail. It crosses over to the eastern side of Semnoz at Les Puisots parking area.

The descent begins from Les Puisots and runs along the eastern side of Semnoz, mainly on the crest trail. The trails end across from the lake.

Medium Semnoz Ride

This route starts in Annecy and climbs on the road to the Basilica and trailhead.

From the trailhead, this route climbs the western side of Semnoz on Sentier de sous les Becs and Chemin des Puisots, with a stop at Les Puisots. From there, it parallels the D41 road until arriving at the trails above Quintal.

The descent starts on the red and blue tracks above Quintal, which can easily be lapped. It then descends along the eastern side of Semnoz, before crossing over to the western crest trail and descending to the lake.