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Annecy Kids’ Water Skiing: A Great Day Trip from La Plagne
This past weekend, we decided to treat our two boys, aged 6 and 7, to their first waterskiing experience at Lake Annecy. It was an incredible day out, filled with fun, excitement, and plenty of family bonding. We booked a taster session with E-BabySki at the Plage Impériale, and I’m thrilled to share our experience with you, along with some tips and insights if you’re considering taking your little ones out on the water.
Why Waterskiing is a Great Activity for Young Kids
Waterskiing might not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of activities for young children, but it’s actually an excellent choice. The key is to find the right provider who specialises in teaching kids, and E-BabySki is fantastic for this. Not only does it offer a unique and thrilling experience for the kids, but it also helps them build confidence and improve their coordination in a fun environment.
For our boys, the excitement of trying something new was evident from the moment we arrived. The instructors were patient and encouraging, which made all the difference. The minute we met Thomas their instructor – or Captain ToTo – they were in their element!
Waterskiing can seem daunting at first, especially for younger children, but Captain ToTo broke everything down into manageable steps. By the end of the session, both boys were smiling ear to ear, having successfully stayed upright on their skis, no small feat for their first try!
If you’re planning a wider visit to Annecy, you can read my full guide to the best things to do in Annecy with kids, including where to swim, the best beaches, family-friendly activities, and how to plan an easy day trip.
Is Waterskiing Safe for Young Kids?
Safety is always a top priority, especially when it comes to water sports. As parents, we had a few concerns about how our boys would handle the experience. Both are at the stage where they think they can swim, but I would be concerned for their safety if they were unsupervised at a pool! However, I needn’t have worried. The team at E-BabySki put our minds at ease from the start.
Firstly, the equipment is specifically designed for young children. The skis are smaller, shorter, fatter and easier to control, and the speed of the boat is carefully adjusted to match the child’s skill level. Secondly, all the children are fitted with well-fitting life jackets, and the instructors are with them, offering hands-on guidance. Thomas made sure our boys understood the basics, such as how to hold the rope and maintain their balance, before the boat even started moving.
Another reassuring aspect is that the sessions are conducted in a controlled environment. The section of Lake Annecy where E-BabySki operates is relatively calm, making it a perfect spot for beginners. The instructors are also well-versed in dealing with any nerves or fears the kids might have, and they know just how to encourage them to give it a go.
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The Practicalities: Booking, Pricing, and What to Expect
Booking a session with E-BabySki is straightforward. We reached out via Instagram, but you can also call them directly. There are two locations to choose from: Plage Impériale in Annecy, where we went, and another in Sevrier with the Ski Nautique Club Sevrier Annecy. Both are well-regarded, but we chose Plage Impériale because it suited our day-trip plans better.
The cost for a taster session is very reasonable, at €20 for children under 8. This includes all equipment, instruction, and plenty of encouragement! We found it to be excellent value, especially considering the quality of instruction and the unforgettable experience the boys had.
If you’re driving, the Imperial car park is the most convenient place to park. It costs €4 for 4 hours, but be warned, it fills up quickly during the summer, so it’s worth arriving early to secure a spot.
How to Get from La Plagne to Annecy
Getting from La Plagne to Annecy is a straightforward and scenic drive, perfect for a day trip. The journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and your exact starting point within La Plagne.
To start, head down the mountain towards Aime or Bourg-Saint-Maurice, depending on which part of La Plagne you’re staying in. From Aime, take the N90 towards Albertville. This national road is well-maintained and offers beautiful views as you pass through the Tarentaise Valley.
Once you reach Albertville, follow the signs for Annecy via the D1508. This route takes you along the stunning shores of Lake Annecy, giving you a preview of the day ahead. The drive is quite picturesque, especially as you approach the lake, with the road winding through quaint villages and lush green landscapes.
When you arrive in Annecy, follow the signs to the town centre or directly to Plage Impériale, where you’ll find parking and easy access to the lakefront activities. Just remember to plan ahead for parking, especially in the summer when it can get busy.
It’s a comfortable and enjoyable drive, making it an ideal way to explore the beauty of the region beyond the mountains.
If you’re looking to mix in a few easy days out, I’ve shared more ideas in my guide to the best day trips from La Plagne.
Why Lake Annecy is Perfect for a Family Day Out
Lake Annecy is one of those places that just ticks all the boxes for a family day out. Beyond the waterskiing, there’s so much to do and see that it’s easy to make a full day of it. After the boys finished their session, we spent the afternoon exploring the area. The beach at Plage Impériale is ideal for a picnic, and the water is perfect for a cooling dip and there was plenty of cooler shade for our baby girl to relax under.
If you want to wander into town, Annecy itself is absolutely charming. With its cobblestone streets, beautiful canals, and vibrant market. After our waterskiing adventure, we wandered through the old town, indulged in some local ice cream, and even did a bit of shopping. There’s a relaxed holiday vibe that makes it a pleasure to explore, and there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
If you’re planning a visit, I’d recommend packing a picnic, bringing along some beach toys, and making a day of it. The combination of adventure on the water and relaxation on the shore makes for a perfect balance, ensuring that everyone in the family has a great time.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Waterskiing Experience
To help you get the most out of your trip, here are a few tips based on our experience:
- Book in Advance: E-BabySki gets booked up quickly, especially during the summer. Contact them early via Instagram or phone to secure your spot.
- Arrive Early: Not only will this help you secure parking, but it also gives the kids time to acclimatise to the environment before their session starts.
- Dress Comfortably: Bring swimsuits, towels, and a change of clothes for after the session. The water can be a bit chilly, even in summer, so a lightweight wetsuit isn’t a bad idea if your child tends to get cold easily.
- Stay for the Day: Make the most of your trip by planning to spend the whole day at Lake Annecy. There’s plenty to do, and the surroundings are too beautiful to rush through.
- Encourage, Don’t Push: If your child is nervous, let them take things at their own pace. The instructors are great at reading the kids and know how to build their confidence step by step.
That's La Plagne & Waterskiing at Lake Annecy
Overall, our experience at Lake Annecy with E-BabySki was nothing short of fantastic. It’s the perfect way to introduce young children to waterskiing in a safe, supportive, and fun environment. The boys left with a sense of achievement and big smiles, and we all made some wonderful memories together.
If you’re looking for a unique activity that the whole family can enjoy, I highly recommend giving it a try. The combination of adventure, stunning scenery, and quality family time is hard to beat.
My only concern now is that they are desperate to do it again soon!
See you on the slopes (or maybe on the water)!
If you’re planning a wider trip, you can find more ideas in my guide to the best things to do in La Plagne in summer, including day trips and local favourites.
