Travel guide – annecy
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Overview
Situated 80 miles (129km) east of Lyon, Annecy has a magical setting on the shore of Lake Annecy at the foot of the Alps. It has been called the Venice of the Alps because of the web of canals that cut through its old town. Annecy is probably the best base for touring the Haute-Savoie region. Just six miles (10km) to its west is Gorges du Fier, a dramatic river gorge. A gangway takes visitors through a narrow gully that has been cut by a torrent of water over the eons; you can hear the roar of the river below. Emerging from this labyrinth, you'll be greeted by a huge expanse of boulders. The site is closed to the public between mid-October and mid-March. Visitors can also take a cruise on the ice-blue lake for which the town is famous.
Climate
The French Alps offer lots of sunshine, but cold weather from November to April when the ski season is in full swing. The resorts are generally high and the snow is excellent, although the weather is relatively mild in comparison to the North American resorts. During the summer months the cool, sunny weather attracts hikers and climbers, particularly from July to September when the weather has settled and the high snows have melted.
Health
French hospitals and health facilities are first class. British, and visitors from other EU countries, are entitled to heavily discounted medical treatment and medicines on presentation of a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Otherwise doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services. Medical insurance is advised. Pharmacies will provide some first aid, but charge for it. There have been increased reports of hantavirus (caused by rodents) in the Ardennes, Aisne and Jura regions. Rabies also occurs occasionally. In February 2006, France confirmed its first cases of bird flu; all affected birds have been culled and precautionary measures taken. The risk is low for travellers, but close contact with domestic, wild and caged birds should be avoided, and all poultry and egg dishes well cooked.
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