Regional Information

The charming, idyllic resort village of Talloires is located on the shores of Lake Annecy at the foot of the French Alps in the Haute-Savoie region of France (bordered by Italy and Switzerland). The natural beauty of the lakeside village and the surrounding mountains has inspired artists such as Paul Cézanne. Whether you enjoy hiking, tennis, water-skiing, or relaxing at the beach, Talloires has something to offer everyone. This gem of a mountain setting is dotted with courtyards, gardens, beaches, hiking trails, small cafés, and shops.

Talloires (pronounced “Tal-whar,” from "Tall’eur" in Celtic, meaning “facing the moon”) preserves a heritage dating back to 1018 when it became the site of a Benedictine priory. Today, Talloires continues to offer respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. In addition to being a popular resort destination for European vacationers, it is also a summertime center of intellectual activity. The former priory (Le Prieure) is now home to the Tufts University European Center and its various academic programs and conferences.

The proximity to the French Alps provides opportunities for hikes or leisurely walks, while Lake Annecy offers sailing, water-skiing, windsurfing, swimming, and fishing. 

Talloires' reputation for gourmet cuisine is known throughout Europe. Participants can choose from among fine restaurants and sample the traditional local specialties or indulge in a truly unforgettable dinner at the world-famous Michelin-rated Auberge du Père Bise. Several of the restaurants have breathtaking lakefront views and are noted for both their superb cuisine and exceptional service. 

The beautiful city of Annecy, just 8 miles away, is known as the “Venice of France.”  Its small medieval quarter is laced with canals, flower-covered bridges, and cobblestone streets and its quaint cafés, open-air markets, museums, and castles give you a taste of old France. Annecy has an impressive chateau and cathedral, as well as many shops, art galleries, and museums worth visiting.

Haute-Savoie Region 

Chamonix and the Mont Blanc range are an hour’s drive from Talloires. In the 18th century, Chamonix came into fame with the development of tourism, skiing, and alpinism and, in 1924, the town organized the first Winter Olympics. In the opposite direction, visitors can drive to Albertville, site of the 1992 Winter Olympic Games, or visit the medieval village of Conflans, the monastery in Tamié, the ski resort of Val d'Isère, or tour a vineyard. Talloires is just an hour's drive from both Switzerland and Italy and about three hours on the train from Paris.