Annecy: 1.5-Hour Segway Tour

Explore Annecy’s Historic Old Town by Segway

The Annecy 1.5-Hour Segway Tour offers an engaging way to see the medieval Old Town and its tiny streets. Starting at the 8 Place aux Bois, this guided adventure whips you through some of the town’s most iconic spots in just 90 minutes.

The tour begins with a brief training session on the easy-to-operate personal transporters, making sure everyone feels comfortable before hitting the streets. This setup is perfect for first-time Segway riders, as the guides provide clear instructions and support.

Once underway, you’ll glide past tiny churches, beautiful canals, and scenic landscapes. The tour not only highlights the town’s beauty but also touches on fascinating stories about famous historic figures who stayed at the Imperial Palace hotel—notably Charlie Chaplin and Winston Churchill.

While the tour covers around 7 kilometers, it’s a relaxed pace designed to balance sightseeing with fun riding. The cost of $60 per person makes this experience accessible for most, with the entire activity including helmet use and a short training session.

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Discover the Shortest River of France: The Thiou

One of the tour’s highlights is a visit to the Thiou River, which measures just 3.5 kilometers long—making it one of the smallest rivers in France. This charming waterway is lined with historic buildings and gardens, adding to the old-world charm of Annecy.

Riding along the canal network gives visitors a unique perspective of the town’s architecture and natural beauty. The river’s size makes it a perfect stop for photo opportunities, and the smooth glide over the water’s edge provides a sense of adventure without any rush.

The Thiu River marks the final stop of the tour, allowing plenty of time to appreciate the scenic views and capture memories before returning to the starting point.

Glide Past the Grand Hotel Where Celebrities Stayed

Another standout feature is passing by the Imperial Palace hotel, a grand hotel with a storied history. The hotel served as a residence for Charlie Chaplin, Winston Churchill, and Edith Piaf, adding a touch of glamour to the tour.

Guides share brief stories about these famous guests, enriching the experience with tidbits about the town’s cultural significance. This stop also offers an excellent photo opportunity, especially for those interested in history or iconic architecture.

The hotel’s impressive facade and lakeside location make it a memorable part of the journey, and it’s a highlight for those curious about Annecy’s celebrity connections.

Touring the Canals and Little Streets of Annecy

A core part of this tour involves entering the medieval Old Town, where a network of tiny streets and canals awaits exploration. The tour weaves through this charming area, letting you see historic buildings, small bridges, and hidden courtyards.

The canal system is especially photogenic, with reflections of colorful facades and stone bridges. Guides provide commentary on the various sights, making it a good way to get a sense of the town’s atmosphere, especially if you only have limited time in Annecy.

While the small streets can get crowded during peak times, the Segway’s maneuverability allows for easy navigation around groups and obstacles.

Discover Lake Annecy and Its Garden Borders

Following the Old Town exploration, the tour takes you down to the crystal-clear waters of Lake Annecy. Surrounded by mountains in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, the lake offers stunning views during the ride.

You’ll pass by well-maintained gardens that border the lake, providing picturesque scenery perfect for photos. The surrounding natural beauty adds a peaceful backdrop to your sightseeing, and the guides often share stories about the area’s history and environment.

Riding along the lakeside is both relaxing and visually captivating, making this a favorite part of the tour for many participants.

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Practical Details: Meeting Point and Group Size

The tour departs from the Mobilboard Annecy office, located at 8 Place aux Bois. The group size is designed to be manageable for safe riding, with an emphasis on individual instruction during the brief training session.

The tour duration is 1.5 hours, making it an ideal option for a quick but comprehensive introduction to Annecy’s highlights. The activity is suitable for anyone aged 14 and above, provided they weigh between 45 and 118 kilograms (99 to 260 pounds).

Guests are advised to wear comfortable, flat shoes—high heels are not permitted—and to bring sunscreen and hydration for sunny days. The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or children under 14.

Cost and Booking Flexibility

With a price of $60 per person, this Segway tour offers good value for a scenic outdoor activity. The booking options include free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility in case of unforeseen plans.

The reserve now and pay later feature allows travelers to secure their spot without immediate payment, which is useful for flexible travel planning.

What’s Not Included

Guests should be aware that meals, drinks, and personal expenses are not included in the tour price. It is best to plan for any additional costs outside the activity fee.

Experience Feedback and Practical Tips

The overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 101 reviews indicates high satisfaction. Many mention the knowledgeable guides and beautiful scenery as highlights.

One common tip is to wear a cap and hydrate well before the tour, especially on sunny days. Being in good physical condition is helpful, as riding can be physically demanding, particularly when navigating crowded or slower sections.

Some reviews note that initial wait times or language group mixing can slightly reduce the overall ride time, but the enjoyable sights and smooth Segway experience compensate well.

The Sum Up: A Fun and Scenic Way to See Annecy

The Annecy 1.5-Hour Segway Tour balances easy riding with fascinating sights. It’s a smart choice for those who want to explore Annecy’s Old Town, canals, famous hotels, and lakefront scenery in a short time.

The tour’s highlights—such as passing by famous historic figures’ hotel, the shortest river in France, and the picturesque gardens—make it a memorable way to get an overview of this charming alpine town.

With practical instructions, a manageable pace, and excellent views, this tour suits first-time visitors, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone eager to see Annecy from a different angle. Just remember to wear flat shoes and be prepared for a physically engaging but enjoyable ride.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this Segway tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour includes a 10-15 minute training session that ensures beginners feel confident before starting.

What is the minimum age to participate?
Participants must be at least 14 years old and meet weight requirements of 45 to 118 kilograms.

Are helmets provided?
Yes, helmets are included as part of the activity for safety.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts 1.5 hours and covers approximately 7 kilometers.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
No, the activity requires riding a Segway, which is not suitable for wheelchair users.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, flat shoes are recommended; high heels are not allowed.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance or reserve now and pay later.

What sights will I see?
You will visit the Old Town, see the canals, pass by the Imperial Palace hotel, and explore the shortest river in France, the Thiou River.

Is food or drinks included?
No, meals and drinks are not included; plan for additional expenses if desired.

What if I have special needs or restrictions?
Pregnant women and children under 14 cannot participate; the tour is best suited for those comfortable balance-wise and physically capable of riding a Segway.

Are the guides multilingual?
Yes, guides can explain some sights in English, and the tour is open to non-French speakers, though some language mixing may occur during group tours.

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