[1][2]: 958 It is the third-largest lake in France, after the Lac du Bourget and Lac de Grand-Lieu, if the French part of Lake Geneva, which is shared between Switzerland and France, is excluded.

[citation needed] It is a popular tourist destination known for its swimming and water sports.

[citation needed] The lake was formed about 18,000 years ago, at the time the large alpine glaciers melted.

[citation needed] It is fed by many small rivers from the surrounding mountains (Ire, Eau morte, Laudon, Bornette and Biolon) and a powerful underwater source, the Boubioz, at an 82-metre depth (269 ft).

[citation needed] A cycle path goes partially around Lake Annecy past Sevrier and St Jorioz to Ugine.