Ermitage St Germain

Ermitage St Germain is 13 km away from Annecy, before reaching Talloires, turn left ‘Col de la Forclaz’, then you will need to take a narrow road on the left, follow the sign “St Germain Church”. The official parking is not easy to reach so follow the sign Parking conseillé which is easier to reach.

It can also be a lovely walk up hill from Talloires.

The St Germain Church (L’Eglise de St Germain) was built in 1780 above the cave where Germain, the first prior of the Abbey of Talloires, lived as a recluse for 40 years from 1033 to 1060.

You can enter the Church, walk to the Belvedere de la Vierge and visit the cave (down the road from the Church).

From the site, there is a sumptuous panorama over Talloires bay and the whole of Lake Annecy (large and small lakes).

If you are religious, you can bring a candle, a prayer that you can leave in the cave.

The St. Germain Ermitage was originally established as a monastery in the 11th century. It was founded by the Benedictines at a time when monasticism was beginning to thrive across Europe, reflecting the church’s growing influence in medieval society.
Nestled in the picturesque surroundings of Talloires, near Lake Annecy, the hermitage benefits from its serene natural environment. The location was chosen for its tranquility, allowing monks to live a life of prayer and solitude.
The Ermitage played a vital role in the monastic community in the region, contributing to the spiritual and cultural development of the area. It served as a center for education and spiritual guidance for the local population.
Over the centuries, St. Germain Hermitage became a focal point for the community, influencing not only religious practices but also local customs and traditions. It served as a place where travelers and pilgrims would come for refuge and spiritual enrichment.
The St. Germain Hermitage in Talloires serves as a captivating reminder of the rich spiritual and cultural history of the region. Its blend of historical significance, architectural beauty, and natural surroundings make it a valuable site for both locals and tourists, symbolizing the enduring legacy of monastic life in medieval France.

It is a small place a bit mystical that can be visited on your way to Col de la Forclaz https://www.taxi-massingy.com/en/col-de-la-forclaz/ , Angon Waterfall  https://www.taxi-massingy.com/en/angon-waterfall/ or if you are near Talloires.

If you wish to book a private car to go off the beathen path around lake Annecy please contact me https://www.taxi-massingy.com/

For more informations regarding Hermitage St Germain https://www.talloires-lac-annecy.com/fr/explorer/patrimoine-historique/87-l-ermitage-de-saint-germain-sur-talloires

 
Below the Church of St Germain

Below the Belvedère of the Vierge

Below the Cave

The Panoramic view from St Germain