Talloires, the “Pearl of the Lake” between Mountains and Water

Nestled between lake and mountains, Talloires charms visitors with its thousand-year-old history, artistic soul and gourmet lifestyle. This Haute-Savoie village, lovingly nicknamed “the pearl of the lake”, invites you to a stay full of emotion, beauty and flavour on the shores of Lake Annecy.

📜 History: from ancient roots to royal abbey

Traces of human occupation in Talloires date back to the Neolithic period, as shown by remains discovered in the caves and along the shores of Lake Annecy. In Antiquity, the land was inhabited by the Allobroges before being integrated into the Roman Empire, which developed strategic trade routes through the region. Mysterious Latin inscriptions still bear witness to this era.

Talloires truly enters written history in the 9^th century, when King Lothair gifts the villa to his wife Theutberga. But its real rise comes in the 11^th century with the founding of a Benedictine priory by Rudolph III of Burgundy and his wife Ermengarde. The abbey, built directly on the lake shore, becomes a major religious and economic centre, enriched by the gifts of bishops and the Dukes of Savoy. Its first prior, Germain of Talloires, lived as a hermit in a cave overlooking the village, leaving a lasting spiritual imprint on the place.

Over the centuries, the abbey experiences periods of splendour and upheaval: fires, reforms, then partial destruction during the French Revolution, when its archives are burned and its bell tower collapses. In the 19^th century, the former abbey is transformed into an inn and then a hotel, paving the way for Talloires’ vocation as a refined lakeside resort.

🎨 Talloires & the arts: an endless source of inspiration

The extraordinary beauty of the Bay of Talloires has long inspired artists. In 1896, Paul Cézanne painted his famous work “Le Lac bleu” here. Writers, musicians and international personalities have all fallen under its spell: Alphonse de Lamartine, Winston Churchill, Grace Kelly, Charlie Chaplin and Empress Eugénie, to name just a few.

Today, Talloires still vibrates to the rhythm of creation. Contemporary artists such as Ophélie Vaganay and Alain Rouschmeyer are regularly exhibited at the Hôtel Beau Site, highlighting the unique light and landscapes of the lake.

The village also hosts major cultural events: Pyroconcerts combining fireworks and live music, a Book Festival, and contemporary art exhibitions at nearby venues such as the Fondation Salomon. Galleries, hotels and studios scattered through the lanes keep this artistic tradition very much alive.

🍽️ Gastronomy: Savoyard terroir & exceptional tables

Talloires is a true foodie destination, where Savoyard traditions meet the creativity of top chefs. Local specialities shine on the menu: féra from the lake, reblochon dishes, tartiflette, Savoyard fondue, macaroni gratins, cheeses, charcuterie, honey and regional wines. The terroir is showcased in some of the finest dining rooms in the Alps.

⭐ Must-try restaurants in Talloires

• L’Auberge du Père Bise – Jean Sulpice
  Two Michelin stars, inventive and refined cuisine and an unforgettable view over the bay – a legendary address on Lake Annecy.
• L’Abbaye de Talloires
  A gastronomic restaurant set in a historic abbey, where tradition, heritage and contemporary cuisine meet.
• Le 1903
  A warm, relaxed table paying tribute to the origins of the Auberge du Père Bise, with seasonal dishes and stunning lake views.
• Le Beau Site
  Panoramic restaurant offering terroir-driven cuisine, local products, brunches and dinners facing the lake.
• L’Auberge de Montmin
  A gastronomic gem in the foothills of the mountains, renowned for its creative dishes and attentive service.
• Chalet de l’Aulp
  A rustic mountain stop where you can savour fondue, tartiflette and potato fritters in a postcard-perfect Alpine setting.
• And more…
  Talloires also offers pizzerias, cafés and bistros for every mood – from a sunny terrace lunch to a relaxed meal with your feet almost in the water.

✨ Talloires in a nutshell

Talloires is a rare blend of ancient heritage, artistic energy and outstanding gastronomy, all set in a breathtaking natural amphitheatre. A village where every moment – from a quiet stroll along the shore to a star-level dinner – becomes a unique experience, at the crossroads of history, art and gourmet pleasure.