1 Faubourg des Balmettes, 74000 Annecy

Icône Hôtel

Name: Icône Hôtel
Address: 1 Faubourg des Balmettes, Annecy, 74000, fr
Price range: 100 EUR - 115 EUR

Hotel-restaurant 2-star in Annecy

Romantic stay
2 stars
Design
Near the beach

Presentation

Behind the ancient stones of a 16th-century house, the Icône Hôtel invites you to discover an atmosphere full of charm and authenticity, at the gateway to the bustling streets of Annecy. This discreet and confidential address, subtly nestled in the historical fabric of the city, proves to be an excellent starting point to explore its many facets, whether you are visiting for business or for a more contemplative getaway.

The welcome is attentive, warm, and you feel expected from the moment you arrive. You will find a simple and sincere spirit here, with a dedicated team ensuring that every detail contributes to your comfort, without excess or ostentation. The ambiance of the place reflects both the history of the building and a desire to adapt to today's needs, with understated elegance.

The hotel has 25 rooms spread over several levels, each air-conditioned and designed to offer a pleasant retreat after a day of sightseeing. Some overlook the rooftops and streets of the old town, while others face a quieter inner courtyard, allowing everyone to choose the atmosphere that suits them best. Whether you are traveling as a couple, with friends, or family, different configurations are available, including triple and quadruple rooms.

Each room's amenities combine simplicity and comfort: a private bathroom with shower or bathtub, flat-screen TV, mini-bar, courtesy tray, and free Wi-Fi access. A few well-thought-out details, such as the quality of the bedding or the silent air conditioning, make a significant difference for those looking to rest peacefully.

In the morning, a hearty breakfast is offered from 7 am, in the form of a cold buffet. The selection is varied: fresh pastries, seasonal fruits, cheeses, cold meats, dairy products, crispy bread, hot drinks, and fruit juices. You can choose to sit in the designated room or, if you prefer tranquility, enjoy this moment in the comfort of your room.

The Icône Hôtel does not have an on-site restaurant, but its location provides quick access to numerous gourmet addresses within a short walk. Additionally, the staff remains available to guide you or book a table according to your preferences.

A laundry service is available for extended stays, as well as a computer station and newspapers in the common areas. The establishment is entirely non-smoking and offers a setting suitable for travelers of all profiles, including a room accessible to people with reduced mobility.

The building, although old, has been carefully renovated. Its architecture retains traces of past eras while integrating modern comfort requirements. This contrast between history and modernity gives the whole a unique personality, reflected in every corner, from the entrance hall to the upper floors.

Access is straightforward, even for those traveling without a car: the train and bus stations are less than a ten-minute walk away, sparing you any arduous travel with luggage. For those arriving by vehicle, a public parking lot is nearby, free of charge during the night.

The location of the Icône Hôtel offers direct access to shopping streets, typical markets, and cultural sites in the city center. The neighborhood can be explored on foot, at your own pace, alternating between lively spots and quieter corners.

From the hotel, you can quickly reach Annecy Castle, perched on the heights. This iconic monument now houses a museum with varied collections: regional art, temporary exhibitions, and objects related to the history of the lake and mountains. The panoramic view it offers over the city's rooftops and surrounding reliefs is worth the visit alone.

Continuing onward, you can reach the lake's shores in about ten minutes. Its transparent waters and landscaped banks invite relaxation or a stroll. Whether on the Pâquier lawn, cycling along the greenway, or boating from the Quai de la Tournette, there are many ways to enjoy the lake, accessible to all.

Culture enthusiasts can also discover the Palais de l’Île, an iconic building situated on an islet in the middle of the Thiou River. This museum tells the urban and political history of Annecy and serves as an excellent complement to the castle visit. Not far away, the Bonlieu Center offers a varied program of theater, dance, and music performances, energizing the local cultural scene year-round.

To enhance your stay, also check out the events organized during your visit. Annecy hosts numerous artistic or sporting events, including the famous International Animation Film Festival, Christmas markets, and outdoor summer concerts by the lake.

The Icône Hôtel thus offers an appealing balance of comfort, accessibility, and immersion in the city. Its location, history, and focus on essentials make it a simple yet engaging address, perfect for experiencing Annecy in a spontaneous and enjoyable way.

Some activities and discoveries near this hotel

Stroll through the colorful stalls of the Rue Sainte-Claire market to taste local flavors and feel the heartbeat of the old town.
Walk to the lake and embark on a guided cruise to discover the villages along the shores and surrounding peaks.
Rent a bike on the quays and ride along the greenway to Talloires for a continuous view of the turquoise waters and alpine reliefs.
Climb up to Annecy Castle: its museum rooms tell the story of the lake, while the panoramic view over the rooftops justifies the ascent.
Plan an escape to the summit of Semnoz, accessible by shuttle in the summer, for a wide-angle view of the Mont-Blanc massif.
End the day at the Bonlieu cultural center, where plays, concerts, and screenings take place year-round.

Summary of some positive reviews read online

Travelers praise an unbeatable location, just steps from the old streets and within short walking distance of the lake and train station.
Many stays mention clean, comfortable, and spacious rooms suitable for several nights without feeling cramped.
The reception team is frequently described as warm and helpful, always ready to share tips for enjoying Annecy.
The breakfast buffet receives glowing reviews for its variety of fresh sweet and savory products.
Several comments highlight an appreciable calm at night, allowing for restorative rest despite the proximity to lively streets.