Attractions and Places To See around Villy-Le-Pelloux - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Villy-Le-Pelloux, a commune in the Haute-Savoie department of France, offers a tranquil base for exploring the region. It provides access to numerous natural features, including Lake Annecy and the Mandallaz Mountains, as well as cultural sites like Annecy's Old Town. The area is characterized by its pre-Alpine landscape, offering diverse opportunities for outdoor activities and historical exploration.
Best attractions and places to see around Villy-Le-Pelloux
- The most popular attractions is Cycle path with the best views of Lake Annecy, a lake that offers a classic route around its shores. This path provides views of the surrounding peaks and is popular for cycling.
- Another must-see spot is Caille Bridge, a bridge that spans the Usses river. It offers views into the deep gorge and can be crossed on foot or by bike.
- Visitors also love Tête de la Mandallaz, a prominent peak in the Mandallaz Mountains. This location provides panoramic views of the Annecy metropolitan area, Lake Annecy, and the Alps.
- Villy-Le-Pelloux is known for its natural features, historical sites, and footpaths. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from mountain peaks and gorges to historical ruins and local markets.
- The attractions around Villy-Le-Pelloux are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 580 upvotes and over 100 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
Cycle path with the best views of Lake Annecy
Highlight (Segment) • Lake
Very busy track in the summer season, particularly on the shore on the Sévrier side.
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Albigny Beach
Highlight • Beach
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Caille Bridge
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Tête de la Mandallaz
Highlight • Other
The word mandallaz comes from the Old French muer, which gave rise to the verbs "remer" and "mouvoir," and more specifically the noun remue. It thus refers to a small chalet located in an alpine pasture, and in Savoyard, muanda, with the diminutive suffix -allaz.
The mountain is locally known as Balme Mountain or La Balme-de-Sillingy, from the name of the eponymous commune. In a transcript of a meeting of the Florimontane Academy (1912), a note states that "Mandallaz is wrongly called the mountain of Balme de Sillingy."
It can also be called Mandallaz Mountain or simply La Mandallaz. The Mandallaz Mountains are a small pre-Alpine massif, eight kilometers long and three to four kilometers wide, located northwest of the Annecy basin. It extends through the communes of Annecy (formerly Pringy), Choisy, Cuvat, Épagny-Metz-Tessy, La Balme-de-Sillingy, Sillingy, and Allonzier-la-Caille. Its most prominent peak, the Tête de la Mandallaz, at the southern end of the mountain overlooking La Balme-de-Sillingy and Épagny-Metz-Tessy at an altitude of 900 meters, is not its highest point; the highest point is located in the center of the mountain at 923 meters.
The Mandallaz offers panoramic views of the Annecy metropolitan area, Lake Annecy, the Alps, the Montagne d'Âge, and the surrounding countryside.
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Ruins of the Bains de la Caille
Highlight • Historical Site
Probably already known to the Romans1, they are fed by two sulfurous springs which spring at the bottom of the Usses valley, downstream from the Caille bridges. These baths have been used several times at least since the Middle Ages. They were actually developed from the middle of the 19th century but have not been exploited since the 1960s, their location nestled in the gorges, the moderate flow and temperature of the springs not having favored the sustainability of the establishment.
The waters are sulphurous, alkaline, gaseous, hot at 24°Re or 30°C1. They are used in drinks, baths, showers and steam baths. They become cloudy as soon as they are exposed to air and then give off a very characteristic odor.
They escape in two sources from the limestone bases of the so-called “Châtelard” mountain. Their flow rate of approximately one hundred liters of water per minute corresponds, for example, to the content of a bath per minute1. They are easily digested; also, patients can drink 8 to 12 glasses per day. They are used more particularly against diseases of the skin, joints, gout, rheumatism, scrofula, internal and external engorgement, vapors, migraines, etc.
The operation of the baths stopped definitively around the 1960s. The buildings were then partly destroyed, and ruins remained, including the old swimming pool at the entrance to which we can still read the inscription “BENI BE GOD WHO MADE THE SPRINGS BRING OUT. ALONGSIDE THE EVILS, HE PUT THE REMEDY.”
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Tips from the Community
A beautiful route between Yvoire and Annecy mostly via cycle paths and country roads.
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Head of Mandallaz and Sillingy fault mirror
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very gloomy place housing the ancient thermal baths of the pont de la quailles
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Ancient thermal baths, a rather dark and gloomy place
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Mandallaz Mountain, also known as Mandallaz Mountain (pronounced Mandalle), or Balme Mountain, is a mountain in the Prealps located in the Haute-Savoie department (France). The word mandallaz comes from the Old French muer, which gave rise to the verbs "remer" and "mouvoir," and more specifically the noun remue. It thus refers to a small chalet located in an alpine pasture, and in Savoyard, muanda, with the diminutive suffix -allaz. The mountain is locally known as Balme Mountain or La Balme-de-Sillingy, from the name of the eponymous commune. In a transcript of a meeting of the Florimontane Academy (1912), a note states that "Mandallaz is wrongly called the mountain of Balme de Sillingy." It can also be called Mandallaz Mountain or simply La Mandallaz. The Mandallaz Mountains are a small pre-Alpine massif, eight kilometers long and three to four kilometers wide, located northwest of the Annecy basin. It extends through the communes of Annecy (formerly Pringy), Choisy, Cuvat, Épagny-Metz-Tessy, La Balme-de-Sillingy, Sillingy, and Allonzier-la-Caille. Its most prominent peak, the Tête de la Mandallaz, at the southern end of the mountain overlooking La Balme-de-Sillingy and Épagny-Metz-Tessy at an altitude of 900 meters, is not its highest point; the highest point is located in the center of the mountain at 923 meters. The Mandallaz offers panoramic views of the Annecy metropolitan area, Lake Annecy, the Alps, the Montagne d'Âge, and the surrounding countryside.
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The Caille baths are former thermal baths, now disused, located in the Usses gorges, in the town of Cruseilles in Haute-Savoie. Probably already known to the Romans1, they are fed by two sulfurous springs which spring at the bottom of the Usses valley, downstream from the Caille bridges. These baths have been used several times at least since the Middle Ages. They were actually developed from the middle of the 19th century but have not been exploited since the 1960s, their location nestled in the gorges, the moderate flow and temperature of the springs not having favored the sustainability of the establishment. The waters are sulphurous, alkaline, gaseous, hot at 24°Re or 30°C1. They are used in drinks, baths, showers and steam baths. They become cloudy as soon as they are exposed to air and then give off a very characteristic odor. They escape in two sources from the limestone bases of the so-called “Châtelard” mountain. Their flow rate of approximately one hundred liters of water per minute corresponds, for example, to the content of a bath per minute1. They are easily digested; also, patients can drink 8 to 12 glasses per day. They are used more particularly against diseases of the skin, joints, gout, rheumatism, scrofula, internal and external engorgement, vapors, migraines, etc. The operation of the baths stopped definitively around the 1960s. The buildings were then partly destroyed, and ruins remained, including the old swimming pool at the entrance to which we can still read the inscription “BENI BE GOD WHO MADE THE SPRINGS BRING OUT. ALONGSIDE THE EVILS, HE PUT THE REMEDY.”
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Albigny beach is one of the few beaches close to the center of Annecy. You can rest on its expanse of grass, or on one of the wooden deckchairs installed on the pontoon which forms the angle of the lake. The view is awesome!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions can I explore near Villy-le-Pelloux?
The region around Villy-le-Pelloux is rich in natural beauty. You can enjoy the stunning Cycle path with the best views of Lake Annecy, known for its clear waters and picturesque views of the Alps. The Tête de la Mandallaz offers panoramic vistas of the Annecy metropolitan area and the surrounding mountains. Other notable natural sites include the dramatic Gorges du Fier and the forested Roc de Chère natural reserve.
Are there any historical sites or cultural landmarks to visit?
Yes, the area offers several historical and cultural points of interest. The charming town of Annecy, with its 'Vieille Ville' (Old Town), canals, and historical sites like the Palais de l'Île and the Château d'Annecy, is a must-visit. You can also see the Caille Bridge, an impressive 19th-century suspension bridge, and the intriguing Ruins of the Bains de la Caille, former thermal baths nestled in the Usses gorges.
What outdoor activities are popular around Villy-le-Pelloux?
The region is ideal for various outdoor activities. Cycling around Lake Annecy is very popular, especially along the Cycle path with the best views of Lake Annecy. For hiking, you can explore numerous trails, from easy walks in the Forêt de Villy le Pelloux to more challenging routes in the Mandallaz Mountains. There are also opportunities for gravel biking and mountain hikes. Find more details on specific routes in the Hiking around Villy-Le-Pelloux and Gravel biking around Villy-Le-Pelloux guides.
Are there family-friendly attractions or activities?
Absolutely! Albigny Beach in Annecy is a fantastic family-friendly spot with swimming, facilities, and plenty of space. The Caille Bridge offers an interesting walk with views into the gorge, suitable for families. Many of the local footpaths in Villy-le-Pelloux and the Forêt de Villy le Pelloux are also great for family walks. Additionally, local farms like La Ferme de Chosal offer educational tours.
Where can I go swimming near Villy-le-Pelloux?
The most popular spot for swimming is Lake Annecy. Albigny Beach is the largest beach in Annecy, offering a pleasant place to swim with incredible views of the surrounding peaks. The water in Lake Annecy is known for being very clear and shallow in the first 15-20 meters at places like Albigny, making it suitable for all ages.
What are some popular hiking trails in the area?
For hiking, you can explore trails around the Caille Bridge, such as the 'Caille Bridge loop from Allonzier-la-Caille' (moderate, 7 km). Another popular option is the 'Resistance shelter 1944 – Tête de la Mandallaz loop from Allonzier-la-Caille' (moderate, 15 km), which takes you to the scenic Tête de la Mandallaz. You can find more hiking options, including easy and difficult routes, in the Hiking around Villy-Le-Pelloux guide.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Villy-le-Pelloux?
Visitors particularly appreciate the stunning natural beauty, especially the crystal-clear waters of Lake Annecy and the panoramic views from mountain peaks like the Tête de la Mandallaz. The well-maintained cycling paths, such as the Cycle path with the best views of Lake Annecy, are also highly rated. The historical charm of Annecy's Old Town and the unique spectacle of the Caille Bridge are frequently mentioned highlights.
Are there any local markets or producers to visit?
Yes, several nearby towns host markets on various days, offering local produce and crafts. You can find markets in Annecy-le-Vieux, Annecy, Seynod, and other surrounding villages. Additionally, there are local producers like L'Îlot Du Monde Des Plantes in Villy-le-Pelloux, La Ferme de Chosal for vegetables and flowers, and Fruitière du Mont Salève for local cheeses like Reblochon.
What is the best time of year to visit Villy-le-Pelloux for outdoor activities?
The summer months are ideal for enjoying Lake Annecy for swimming, boating, and cycling. The footpaths in the Forêt de Villy le Pelloux are particularly enjoyable in summer. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and exploring the natural and historical sites, with fewer crowds. Winter provides opportunities for skiing at nearby resorts like La Clusaz and Megève.
Can I find viewpoints with scenic vistas in the region?
Absolutely. The Tête de la Mandallaz is a prominent peak offering panoramic views of the Annecy metropolitan area, Lake Annecy, and the Alps. The Caille Bridge provides unique views into the deep Usses gorge. Mont Veyrier, located about 12 km away, also offers scenic views of the surrounding landscape and Lake Annecy.
Are there any specific cycling routes recommended?
The classic route around Lake Annecy, featuring the Cycle path with the best views of Lake Annecy, is highly recommended for its stunning scenery. For gravel biking enthusiasts, routes like the 'Lake Annecy Tour – Lake Annecy loop from Charvonnex' (moderate, 32 km) are available. You can find more cycling options in the Gravel biking around Villy-Le-Pelloux guide.
What villages or towns near Villy-le-Pelloux are worth visiting?
Annecy is undoubtedly the most charming town nearby, famous for its canals and Old Town. Other picturesque villages on the banks of Lake Annecy include Veyrier du Lac, known for its pretty port area, and Menthon-Saint-Bernard, which offers boat hire. Talloires is also considered one of the most beautiful villages on the lake's shores.
Most popular routes around Villy-Le-Pelloux
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