Claude Louis Berthollet, Annecy

Attraction and Statue in Annecy

Statue of Claude Louis Berthollet in Annecy
Statue of Claude Louis Berthollet in Annecy
CC BY-SA 4.0 / GFreihalter

Claude Louis Berthollet in Annecy refers to the lakeside statue honoring the Savoyard-French chemist Claude-Louis Berthollet, best known for work that helped shape modern chemistry and for pioneering chlorine-based bleaching. You'll find it in the Jardins de l'Europe, a leafy park right on the edge of Lake Annecy, where the promenade opens up to postcard views of the water and mountains.

This is an ideal stop on a self-guided walking tour linking Annecy's Old Town canals to the lakefront: pause here for photos, then continue along the waterfront paths or loop back toward the Palais de l'Île and the cobbled lanes. The best views are from the lake-facing side of the statue, where you can frame Berthollet with the lake and the distant peaks.

History and Significance of the Claude Louis Berthollet

Claude-Louis Berthollet (1748-1822) was born near Lake Annecy and became one of the major scientific figures of his era, contributing to chemical nomenclature and the understanding of chemical reactions and equilibria. He is also widely associated with the practical development of chlorine-based bleaching, a breakthrough that changed textile production and everyday life.

Annecy’s statue is part of the city’s broader tribute to a local figure whose work reached far beyond the region. Placing the monument on the lakefront makes the homage feel personal and rooted in place: you’re not just reading a plaque, you’re standing in the landscape that shaped his early life.

Beyond the biography, the statue's significance for travelers is how it anchors a classic Annecy experience: the transition from the intimate canals of Vieille Ville to the wide-open lake promenade. It's a small cultural waypoint that adds context to an otherwise scenic stroll.

Things to See and Do in the Claude Louis Berthollet

Start by circling the statue to appreciate its setting in the Jardins de l'Europe. The most rewarding angle is typically the one that includes Lake Annecy behind it, especially when the light is low and the water reflects the sky.

Use this stop as a breather between the Old Town and the lake loop. The park lawns and paths nearby are perfect for a short rest, people-watching, or a quick snack before continuing along the promenade toward the Pont des Amours area.

If you enjoy themed walks, pair the statue with other “Annecy essentials” nearby: canals, bridges, and viewpoints. It's also a good marker for timing photos, since the lakefront light changes quickly and can be dramatically different morning versus late afternoon.

How to Get to the Claude Louis Berthollet

The nearest major airports are Geneva Airport (GVA) and Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport (LYS), with additional regional options depending on season and routes. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Annecy on Booking.com.

Annecy is well connected by rail, and arriving at Annecy station makes it easy to reach the lakefront on foot or by local bus/taxi. You can use SNCF Connect to check schedules, compare routes, and purchase tickets for National (SNCF ) and regional trains (TER). For a more streamlined experience, we recommend using Omio, which allows you to easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for both National and Regional travel across all of Europe, all in one place..

If you’re traveling by car, aim for public parking near the lakefront/Old Town area and finish the last stretch on foot through the park. If you are looking to rent a car in France I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you..

Practical Tips on Visiting the Claude Louis Berthollet

  • Opening Hours: 24 Hours.
  • Entrance Fee: Free
  • Best time to visit: Go early morning for quieter paths and clean lake reflections, or late afternoon for warmer light on the water and mountains.
  • How long to spend: Plan 10-20 minutes for photos and a short pause, or longer if you're picnicking in the Jardins de l'Europe.
  • Accessibility: The park paths are generally flat and stroller-friendly, with easy access from the lake promenade.
  • Facilities: Nearby benches and open green space make this a comfortable stop; for restrooms and more services, head toward the Old Town or the busier lakefront areas.

Where to Stay Close to the Claude Louis Berthollet

Base yourself in central Annecy (Old Town/lakefront) for the easiest walking access to the statue, canals, restaurants, and the waterfront promenade.

Hôtel du Palais de l’Isle A characterful, central pick near the canals that makes it easy to do sunrise walks to the lake and quick returns for a rest.

Le Pélican A stylish lake-adjacent option that’s great if you want modern comfort and quick access to the promenade and park.

Impérial Palace A classic, upscale stay on the lake with a resort-like feel, ideal if you want views and a more “holiday” atmosphere.

Best Western Plus Hotel Carlton Annecy Convenient for train arrivals and departures while still being walkable to the Old Town and lakefront.

Hôtel des Alpes A practical, good-value base close to the station and central streets, useful if you’re prioritizing location and simplicity.

Is the Claude Louis Berthollet Worth Visiting?

Yes, it's worth visiting as a quick, low-effort stop that adds a cultural note to one of Annecy's best walks. You're already likely to pass through the Jardins de l'Europe, and the statue works perfectly as a photo point and a moment to connect the scenery with a local story.

Honest Pivot: if you’re short on time and only want “must-see” interiors or major monuments, you can skip making a special trip just for the statue. It’s best enjoyed as part of a lakefront stroll rather than a standalone destination.

What Other Travellers Say...

4.6 (96)
Wisanu Tuntawiroon
7 months ago
"The Claude Louis Berthollet statue in A ecy is a compelling tribute to one of France’s most influential chemists, beautifully situated in the Jardinsde l’Europe, a serene park along the shores of Lake A ecy. Born in 1748 in nearby Talloires, Berthollet was a pioneering scientist best known for inventing bleach (eau de Javel) and advancing chemical equilibrium theory. His contributions to science and his role in Napoleon’s Egyptian expedition are commemorated in this bronze monument, sculpted by Carlo Marochetti and inaugurated in 1843. The statue features four detailed bas-reliefs depicting pivotal moments in his life, including his collaboration with Lavoisier and his presence alongside Bonaparte in Egypt ...."
antonios varzakis
a year ago
"Claude Louis Berthollet was born in Talloires, near A ecy, then part of the Duchy of Savoy, in 1749. He is known for his scientific contributions tothe theory of chemical equilibria via the mechanism of reverse chemical reactions, and for his contribution to modern chemical nomenclature. On a practical basis, Berthollet was the first to demonstrate the bleaching action of chlorine gas, and was first to develop a solution of sodium hypochlorite as a modern bleaching agent. He was a chemist who became vice president of the French Senate in 1804 and became a member of the London - Edinburg - Swedish and Netherland Academies of Science...."
Malcolm Petfield
a year ago
"Claude Louis Berthollet - was a Savoyard-French chemist. He was the first to demonstrate the bleaching action of chlorine gas, and was first todevelop a solution of sodium hypochlorite as a modern bleaching agent...."

For Different Travelers

Annecy is a city where the journey between sights is the highlight, and this statue fits that style perfectly. Think of it as a scenic punctuation mark on your route between canals, bridges, and the lake.

It’s also flexible: you can treat it as a two-minute photo stop or build it into a longer promenade with breaks on benches and lawns.

Families with Kids

For families, the main win is the setting: open space, flat paths, and room for kids to move around without the pressure of a timed visit. It’s easy to combine with a snack break in the park.

To keep it engaging, turn it into a mini “spot the statue” challenge on your walk from the canals to the lake. The nearby waterfront is also a natural reward after a short cultural pause.

Couples & Romantic Getaways

Couples will appreciate how photogenic this stop is, especially when the lake is calm and the mountains are clear. It’s a natural place to slow down, take a few portraits, and continue hand-in-hand along the promenade.

Pair it with a sunset stroll and a drink or dessert back in the Old Town. The statue itself is brief, but the atmosphere around it is very “Annecy.”

Budget Travelers

Budget travelers get excellent value here because it’s a free, outdoor sight that sits on top of the city’s best scenery. You can build a full morning around walking the canals, the park, and the lakefront without paying entry fees.

Bring a picnic and use the Jardins de l'Europe as your break point. This is also a great place to reset your route before continuing to other viewpoints.

History Buffs

History buffs will enjoy the local-to-global story: a scientist from the Lake Annecy area whose work influenced industry and scientific thought across Europe. The statue provides a tangible anchor for that narrative.

To deepen the visit, treat this as a starting point for a “people of Annecy” theme walk, connecting names, streets, and institutions around town that reflect the city's cultural memory.

FAQs for Visiting Claude Louis Berthollet

Getting There

Yes, it’s an easy walk from the canals to the lakefront through central streets and the park. The route is scenic and straightforward.
Yes, you can walk from Annecy station to the lakefront area in a reasonable time. It’s also a simple taxi or bus ride if you prefer.
Yes, the lakefront area is bike-friendly and works well as part of a cycling loop. Just be mindful of pedestrians in busy periods.

Tickets & Entry

No, it’s outdoors in a public park and can be visited freely. There’s no entry gate or timed access.
Most of the immediate lakefront and park areas are free to enter. Costs typically come from museums, boat cruises, or rentals.
Some walking routes pass nearby because it sits on a common Old Town-to-lake path. If you’re on a guided tour, ask if the lakefront promenade is included.

Visiting Experience

Most people spend a few minutes for photos and a quick look. It’s best as part of a broader walk.
You may find limited contextual information, so it helps to read a short bio beforehand. The setting and monument do most of the “work” for the experience.
Early morning is usually calmest, especially outside peak summer weekends. Late afternoon can be busier but also more photogenic.

Tours, Context & Itineraries

Walk from the Old Town canals to the lakefront, stop at the statue, then continue along the promenade toward nearby viewpoints. Finish back in Vieille Ville for food.
After the Old Town works well because it feels like a “reveal” when the lake opens up. But it also makes a refreshing start if you arrive early.
Pair it with the Jardins de l’Europe stroll and the canals around Palais de l’Île. This keeps the route compact and walkable.

Photography

Try framing the statue with Lake Annecy behind it for a classic shot. Side angles can also capture the promenade and trees for depth.
Sunrise is quieter and can give mirror-like water, while sunset often brings warmer tones. Choose based on your schedule and the day’s weather.
In a public park, casual tripod use is usually fine if you’re not blocking paths. Be considerate during busy times.

Accessibility & Facilities

The surrounding park paths are generally smooth and flat. Access is easiest from the lakefront promenade entrances.
Yes, the Jardins de l’Europe has plenty of seating. It’s a comfortable place to take a break.
Facilities are more likely around the busier lakefront and Old Town edges than directly at the statue. Plan a quick stop before a longer promenade.

Food & Breaks Nearby

Yes, central Annecy has many cafés within a short walk. The Old Town side is especially convenient for a quick coffee.
Yes, the lawns and benches in the park make it picnic-friendly. Keep it tidy and watch for birds.
Yes, you’ll find shops and kiosks around the central lakefront/Old Town area. Stock up before heading farther along the promenade.

Safety & Timing

The lakefront is generally well-trafficked, but quieter late at night. Use normal city awareness and stick to lit paths.
Yes, lakefront conditions can change quickly, especially with wind or rain. A light layer helps even on mild days.
Yes, the lake and mountain views can be crisp and beautiful in colder months. Just dress warmly for the waterfront.

Nearby Attractions to the Claude Louis Berthollet

  • Jardins de l'Europe: The leafy lakefront park where you can stroll, sit on benches, and enjoy classic Annecy views.
  • Pont des Amours: A beloved footbridge viewpoint that's perfect for photos over the canal and toward the lake.
  • Le Pâquier: The wide open lakeside lawn that's ideal for picnics, sunsets, and panoramic mountain views.
  • Vieille Ville d'Annecy (Old Town): Canals, pastel buildings, and cobbled lanes packed with cafés and small shops.
  • Palais de l'Île: The iconic former prison-like building in the canal, one of Annecy's most photographed landmarks.

The Claude Louis Berthollet appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Annecy!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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Planning Your Visit

Hours:

24 Hours.

Price:

Free

Address: 1 Espl. de l'Hôtel de ville, 74000 Annecy, France
Annecy: 0 km
Telephone: +33 4 50 45 00 33

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