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L'Abbaye de Talloires

L'Abbaye de Talloires

Talloires, France

After a stay in 1891, Mark Twain remarked that he wished he could have stayed at Abbaye de Talloires for a few years he was so taken with the place. Today, the setting between lake and mountains, the serenity and the friendly service remain the same but are now complemented by contemporary comforts and amenities.

The abbey was established in 1018 and grew into a large Benedictine monastery. Its rich history involves tales of kings and queens, the papacy, and a fair share of artists, actors and celebrities.

Today, the grand, vine-clad building retains many of its original features from large fireplaces and beamed ceilings to the tranquil abbey cloister which now serves as the hotel lobby. The 36 rooms are all different in size and decor but are traditionally styled with antique furniture and heavy fabrics complementing the large windows and high ceilings. Some feature 17th-century frescoes, others sweeping views of the lake.

There are two restaurants, the fine-dining Aux Jardins de Délices, and the more casual bistro, La Table Cézanne, both of which offer outdoor lakeside seating. Guests can also wander the sculpture gardens, laze on the private pontoon or in the spa, or take a quick boat transfer into Annecy.

OUR OPINION:

One of our preferred hotels on the lake, a stay at Abbaye de Talloires is a memorable experience due in part to its one-thousand-year old history but also to its inherent elegance, tranquil location and friendly staff.

OUR RATING: Deluxe

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Rooms

When the monastery was being built each monk constructed his own bedroom. Today, those 36 rooms have been carefully updated to retain their authenticity but add more modern comforts and amenities. All differ in size and style but feature antique furniture and rich fabrics and a variety of original features such as large marble fireplaces, beamed ceilings or intricate parquet flooring. Many rooms have balconies, others have great views of the lakes, and there are four large suites. Most impressive of all however, is the Chambre du Prieur, the prior’s private prayer room now transformed into a bedroom laden with atmosphere thanks to its original 17th-century frescoes. There is no air conditioning but fans are in every room and Wi-Fi is available.

Location

Tucked away on the eastern shore of Lac d’Annecy in the medieval village of Talloires, the Abbaye de Talloires offers utter serenity and lake views beloved by artist Paul Cézanne. The hotel is a short private boat transfer or slightly longer road journey from the bustling town of Annecy, making it a great option for visitors who want to explore from a tranquil base. The other villages on the lake are also easily accessible by private boat or public ferry.

Food and drink

Enjoy dining on the terraces in the shade of lime and plane trees in the warmer months with gastronomic excellence at the fine-dining Aux Jardins des Délices, whose chef derives inspiration from the lake’s seasons. The brasserie, La Table de Cézanne, offers a more casual atmosphere and menu without compromising the quality of the food.

Facilities and activities

The hotel has a small spa offering a range of treatments, a Jacuzzi, relaxation area and sauna.

Accessibility

There is one room that can be made wheelchair accessible with use of a ramp.

Location & places nearby

Places & hotels on the map

    Alternative places to stay nearby

    Where possible, we like to offer a range of accommodation for each stop of your trip, chosen by our specialists as some of their favourite places to stay. To help you make the right choice, we give each property a rating based on its facilities and service, but we also look for hotels with distinct character or a location that can’t be bettered.

    Talloires and nearby places