Anthy-sur-Léman is a village in Chablais Haut Savoyard with 2,260 inhabitants. Nestled between the shores of Lake Geneva and the forests at the foot of the Allinges hills, the town benefits from an exceptional natural environment and is part of the Chablais Geopark. This global label, conferred by UNESCO in 2012, recognizes the exceptional cultural geological heritage of the territory.
A rural village with ancient origins, agriculture and fishing have long been the two main centers of activity. Today, the territory, largely residential, retains an authentic village center and traditional fishing activity, with economic activity mainly concentrated in the south in the "Espace Léman" commercial area.
Anthy-sur-Léman is labeled Station Verte. First label of ecotourism in France, it promotes nature and sustainable tourism and acts to preserve the land by participating in their economic dynamism.
Its preserved environment, marked by water, gives it a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. The anthychoise shores of Lake Geneva stretch for almost four kilometres. Walkers, the curious, photographers or contemplative can walk the old coastal path which runs along the shore from one end to the other.
The town has four public beaches: Séchex, Les Recorts, Chantrell and Champ de l'eau. They are equipped with picnic tables, barbecues and toilet blocks.
During the summer season, the Champ de l'eau beach welcomes a professional offering nautical activities: paddle, kayak and pedal boat rental.
Numerous events are organized throughout the year:
- Seasonal markets for local producers and artisans;
- Perch fillet festival, lake festival;
- Summer concerts, exhibitions;
- Tasting of fish from the lake (feras, perch), either by buying directly from the fishermen, or by going to one of the many restaurants on the edge of the lake.
Finally, for a cultural and fun break, you can also stop at the toy library and media library. The latter offers activities throughout the year such as stories for toddlers, theatrical readings for adults, meetings with authors and illustrators, storytelling evenings, etc.
A visit to the town can begin with a few elements of old built heritage. In the heart of the village, typical of the villages of Chablais (historic Savoy), the Saint-Barthélemy church was rebuilt in the 19th century in a neo-Gothic style, on the site of a chapel which itself succeeded a first place of medieval worship. The spire-shaped bell tower contains two bells, one of which was cast in 1790 and has been listed. In the 1960s, stained glass windows designed by the Savoyard artist René Michaud were installed, as well as a Stations of the Cross whose stations are made of slates from Morzine. A wrought iron anchor evoking those of the boats on the lake is also made to serve as a lectern (liturgical desk).
At the civil level, on the edge of the lake, several dwellings dating from the 19th or 20th century testify to the residential character of the place. This was the case of Château Chantrell, which evoked the Petit Trianon, and which was surrounded by an English-style park. The property was unfortunately dismembered. Other residences that have more or less withstood time include the villas of doctors Plontz and Alain, the villa Bourgeois and the chalet de la Croisée d'Anthy, and the chalets Monod, which have a private port.
In another register, see the curious Stone of Sacrifices, a megalith decorated with cupules (small circular cavities dug by man for ritual or utilitarian purposes).
In general, successive excavations in the 20th century brought to light many vestiges (objects, graves, coins) proving a human presence from prehistoric times and then in the Gallo-Roman era.
These different sites can mark out a hiking route (pedestrian or mountain bike) traced between mountain and shore and borrowing the town and its surroundings. Brochures and information on +33 4 50 72 64 57 or +33 4 50 71 55 55.
On the shores of the lake, there are several private or public jetties attesting to the vitality of the activity in terms of navigation. Formerly to go to the other cities bordering Lake Geneva thanks to companies providing regular connections to Geneva in particular, or private "boats", now for more recreational uses. To see also, the port of the Fishermen, always used.
If the weather is pleasant, four public beaches (with sand or grass) follow one another over three kilometers of coastline to enjoy the joys of swimming (unsupervised) or practice windsurfing or paddle boarding. Information on +33 4 50 72 64 57.
Tennis enthusiasts can also practice their favorite sport. Contact +33 4 50 72 99 80.
The third weekend of April, the Swing'n'Salsa Léman festival offers dance performances.
At the end of June, the bonfires of Saint-Jean are organized on the Recorts beach. Playful and musical animations then "ignition".
On July 13 in the evening, the perch fillet festival followed by a meal and a popular ball on the Recorts beach precede the celebration of the National Day.
Every Wednesday in July and August from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. on the Recorts beach, gourmet market of local producers.
At the end of July, on this same beach, the Festives d'Anthy combine concerts and fun activities.
August 14 and 15, games for children, popular dances, meals.
