Senior French Programme in Annecy
Imagine learning French in a lakeside town surrounded by mountains, where every walk feels like a postcard. Known as the “Venice of the Alps,” Annecy is the perfect destination for learners over 50 who want to combine language, serenity, and discovery.
Find my perfect stay in Annecy
Why choose Annecy for your French learning journey?
Cultural Heritage City
A rich cultural heritage, with castles, museums, and seasonal festivals.
Compact & Safe
City Life
A safe, welcoming town with a relaxed pace of life.
Natural Green Surroundings
Breathtaking natural surroundings — lake, canals, and mountains.
Walkable & Charming
Easy to explore on foot, with charming old streets and markets.
What DOES THE SENIOR PROGRAM INCLUDE?
Your experience in Annecy is designed to be enriching, calm, and inspiring
24 French Lessons per week
Small International groups adapted to your level.
Dedicated Chaperon
Always by your side for support and practical help.
Excursion to the Alps
Take in peaceful Alpine scenery at your pace.
Gourmet Experiences
Lunches and Dinners with your group and chaperon
Premium Cultural Excursions
Museums , landmarks and Mountain light hiking.
ACCOmMODATION OPTIONS IN Annecy
We know that comfort matters, especially in a town like Annecy. That’s why the Senior Programme offers two options
- Choose your prefered Accommodation
Select the most convenient accommodation for you
- Host Families for cultural immersion
- Residences or studios for independence
- Or you can choose your own accommodation.
We assist with all alternatives
- All-Inclusive Premium Option
Indulge yourself in a 3*** Hotel
- 3-star hotel in city centre
- Daily breakfast included
- Maximum comfort, security, and convenience
Perfect for a worry-free stay
Whichever option you choose, our team and your dedicated chaperon will be here to make sure your accommodation perfectly matches your needs and expectations.
WHEN CAN YOU JOIN?
With a maximum of 12 participants per session, early booking is strongly recommended
- Spring Session
March 30 – April 11, 2026
Perfect timing to enjoy Annecy’s beautiful spring weather
- Fall Session
September 21 – October 3, 2026
Experience harvest session in wine country
Limited to 12 Participants
Food and drinks you cannot miss in Annecy
Annecy and the Savoy region are a paradise for food lovers. Don’t miss
Tartiflette
A hearty dish with potatoes, reblochon cheese, bacon, and cream.
Fondue Savoyarde
Melted cheese shared with friends, a true Alpine tradition.
Raclette
Cheese melted and scraped over potatoes and charcuterie
Savoy wines
Crisp whites and light reds, perfect with cheese dishes.
Exploring Bordeaux also means discovering its gastronomy and every tasting is an opportunity to practice your French in the most enjoyable way.
About our school in Annecy
Your Senior Programme takes place at IFALPES, our trusted partner school in Annecy.
- Ideally located near the lake and mountains.
- Modern classrooms and a friendly international atmosphere.
- A welcoming team dedicated to supporting you.
- A Senior chaperon to ensure your stay is enjoyable and stress-free.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
If you can’t find an answer that you’re looking for, feel free to drop us a line.
Absolutely. Many of our Senior learners begin with no French Level at all. You’ll start speaking from the very first week.
No. Before your arrival, you will take a complete French level test so that you can be placed in the group that matches your level.
You can even try our free online French level test before booking.
The Annecy Senior programme is designed for one or two weeks. This gives you time to settle in, connect with others, and experience both the language and the local culture at a relaxed pace.
Each programme runs for a maximum of two weeks and is offered twice a year:
Spring session: March 30 – April 11, 2026
Fall session: September 21 – October 3, 2026
Yes. You are welcome to extend your stay and continue learning French for as many weeks as you wish. Please note, however, that beyond the 2-week Senior programme, you will join our regular French courses. This means the tailored cultural activities and dedicated chaperon support will not be included after the Senior programme ends.
Yes. A dedicated chaperon will be by your side throughout the programme, helping you with both practical matters and learning support. Their role is to make your stay smooth, enriching, and worry-free.
Learning stimulates memory, boosts well-being, and creates meaningful connections — while offering the joy of new discoveries.
Each programme runs for a maximum of two weeks and is offered twice a year:
Spring session: March 30 – April 11, 2026
Fall session: September 21 – October 3, 2026
Yes. If you would like to experience both destinations, you can register for one session in Bordeaux and another in Annecy. Each programme is independent and runs on fixed dates, so you can plan your stay around the two sessions that best suit you.
The programme is tailored for mature learners. In Annecy, you’ll enjoy a lake cruise, guided tours of the Old Town and castles, tastings of Savoyard specialties (cheese, wine, local dishes), and a full-day excursion to the Alps — all organized exclusively for our Senior group.
No. All activities have been carefully designed to suit all levels of physical condition. However, if you wish to add more active options such as sports, we will be happy to help you arrange them.
In addition to the activities, each Senior programme includes:
A welcome breakfast
5 coffee breaks per week
2 lunches per week
2 dinners per week
You can choose the comfort that suits you: a 3-star central hotel with breakfast included, a welcoming host family, or an independent studio/residence.
Yes, of course. While we can provide comfortable accommodation options for you, you are also free to book your own if you prefer.
Yes, of course! Companions are welcome to join you for accommodation and leisure, even if they don’t participate in the language classes.
Our Senior programmes are in high demand and limited to just 12 participants per session. We strongly recommend booking at least 6 weeks in advance to secure your place.
Annecy is easily accessible:
By plane: Geneva Airport (45 min by bus/train) or Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport (2h by train).
By train: Annecy has direct connections to Lyon, Geneva, and Paris.
The town itself is compact, safe, and walkable — no car needed.