ANNECY, FRANCE

If you ever wondered how the folks who illustrate fairytale books come up with the fantastical settings a visit to Annecy will provide an answer. The town is as fairytale charming as can be with the glacial lake and the mountains surrounding it the crystal clear canals that cut throughout the town traversed by quaint bridges overflowing with flowers and medieval buildings scattered about.We stayed for two nights in August but I wish we could've stayed longer. There are many wonderful bakeries (patisseries)in the town and some very gloopy - and delicious pastries. Lots of fine restaurants as well. We stayed at an excellent hotel - The Splendid Hotel - and lucked out with a water view.We also splurged and took a boat ride on the lake - I highly recommend it as the scenery is spectacular.The day of our departure the town was preparing for the 'Fete du Lac' which looking at the preparations appears to be quite a spectacular event. There were speakers set up on pylons out in the lake and seating for thousands.If you're looking for an idyllic alpine vacation destination I can't imagine a better one than this.