L Abbaye de Talloires, Talloires

This place was one of the highlights of our 2nd trip to France. We found it on a whim and a little info from Rick Steves. We spent time across the lake in Annecy (ahan-see)which was very metro but on a hint to drive around the lake we found l'Abbaye de Talloires. The old world craftsmanship, impeccable gardens, and beautiful scenery was by far well worth the price. It is a little costly but if you splurge one time, splurge here. We did and loved it. We had to cut back other places but were not disappointed nor will you be. The Food: Fabulous; The Service: Friendly,Excellent; Rooms: very nice and unique. Modern accomodations but again with old world craftsmanship. Our key was an old fashioned skeleton type key; not those annoying credit card keys of today. The town, Saint German, above is very quaint with a grocery store,2 bar/restaurants, small church and one crazy fellow with a beautiful 1968 Fire-engine red convertible mustang. His pipes echo off the cobble stone streets. There food at the bars is also excellent, home style. The service is very friendly. Cooper the dog is nice too. The cook and bartender invited me in a game of dominos even though I was just a visitor. Yet I digress, L'Abbaye is a can't miss. English is spoken very well though try your French; even if broken like mine it's appreciated. And please, leave the politics at home. I don't mean to be ashamed of where you come form, just enjoy yourself and get away from all that and relax on the shore line with a slightly dry but fruitful Bordeaux. Tips: Go offseason, we went in October and it was very quiet plus, just locals. Can't wait to go back!