The Semnoz is one of the most famous mountains of the Bauges range in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes in eastern France; it reaches 1,699 meters high. The most popular place on Semnoz is a barren area called Crêt-du- Chatillon –a rarity on what is an otherwise heavily forested summit– which offers sprawling views of not just the permanently snow-capped mountain range but also the picturesque city of Annecy and its eponymous turquoise lake below. Rumor has it that its name comes from the ancient roman word for salmon, due to the peak’s fish-like shape. The summit is open year-round; it’s a very popular hiking destination in the warmer months (summer bobsleigh, via ferrata, mountain biking, and karting are also available); on the other hand, it’s morphs into a full-on Alpine skiing center come wintertime with four different stations catering to a diverse clientele, from thrilling downhill slopes to peaceful cross-country skiing trails – all of this, just 20 minutes from beautiful Annecy.

It is possible to book an exhilarating downhill 4-hour mountain bike tour of Semnoz fromAnnecy, which is led by a professional and knowledgeable guide who will not hesitate topoint out noteworthy landmarks or take visitors to their secret viewpoints.