In the wooded heights overlooking the Lake Annecy, there is a place that few visitors suspect exists. A place where water has been shaping the rock for millennia, carving narrow gorges, emerald basins, and moss-covered walls. It is here, in this almost unreal setting, that the Angon canyon unfolds its dizzying route.
This natural site is one of the most spectacular in Haute-Savoie. Located between Talloires and the Forclaz Pass, the canyon is renowned as much for its postcard landscapes as for its thrilling sensations. The adventure begins with an approach hike in the forest, followed by rappels, natural slides and jumps into the water. All in the heart of a narrow gorge, cool even in midsummer, where the light softly filters between the cliffs.
A total sensory immersion
The sound of flowing water, the echo of your steps on the damp rock, the joyful shouts of canyoning participants, everything here reconnects you to life. Even without equipment, a simple path allows you to reach the famous Angon waterfall viewpoint, from which you can overlook an impressive over 60-meter waterfall.
An unforgettable travel impression
I discovered this place on a summer morning. It was already warm by the lake, but as I climbed toward the canyon, the temperature dropped. The silence of the forest, then the sudden freshness of the gorges… and finally, that first glance at the waterfall plunging into the void. A striking impression of natural power, almost mystical. I continued on the hanging path that runs along the cliff — a bit slippery, but magnificent. The kind of experience that stays etched in memory for a long time.
And this secret place…
…is the Angon canyon, a spectacular natural site located on the heights of Lake Annecy, in Haute-Savoie. Perfect for canyoning enthusiasts or simply nature hikers, it embodies that rare combination of thrills, raw beauty, and accessibility.
Practical information
| Element | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | Talloires-Montmin, Haute-Savoie |
| Type of activity | Canyoning or hiking (free up to the waterfall) |
| Difficulty | Medium (beware of damp trail) |
| Best period | May to September |
| Access | From Angon (parking), 30–45 min walk |
Technical difficulty of the Angon canyon
The Angon canyon is one of the most famous in Haute-Savoie… but it is not to be taken lightly. There are several canyoning routes on this site, each with a different level of difficulty:
1. The “Discovery” or “initiation” canyon (lower part)
- Duration: about 2h to 2h30
- Audience: accessible to beginners and families (children from 10 years old, able to swim)
- Difficulty: easy to moderate
- Technical elements: small jumps (optional), natural slides, river walking, no big rappels
2. The “Integral” canyon (upper + lower parts)
- Duration: about 3h30 to 4h30
- Audience: athletic, good physical condition required
- Difficulty: moderate to difficult
- Technical elements:
- Rappels up to 45 meters (including the Angon waterfall rappel)
- Mandatory jumps up to 6 meters (often avoidable)
- Progression through narrow, slippery gorges
- Presence of siphons, white-water swimming, and rope handling
Points of attention
- Canyoning is not recommended without professional supervision.
- Weather conditions strongly affect safety: in case of recent rain, the canyon can become dangerous.
- Wearing a helmet, harness, wetsuit, lanyard, and descender is mandatory (provided by guides).
