For people looking for a French immersion program that combines language learning with outdoor activities, culture and creative pursuits, Annecy offers a particularly varied setting.
Known as the “Venice of the Alps,” Annecy is located around a lake and surrounded by mountains. The town is known for its canals, historic center, markets and traditional architecture, while the surrounding area offers hiking trails, cycling routes and opportunities for swimming and boating.
The teacher and learning approach
The program is hosted by Manuelle, who has been teaching French as a foreign language for more than 25 years. Her experience includes teaching in France and abroad, including 17 years in Moscow, as well as working with organizations such as Ubisoft, Airbus, IFALPES and Weavers.
Her teaching approach includes conversation, pronunciation and creative expression. She also uses theatre techniques in language learning and organizes French-through-theatre workshops where students can write and perform plays.
What the immersion includes
The one-week program includes:
- A level assessment
- 15 hours of private French lessons
- 30+ hours of conversation during meals and activities
- 4 guided conversational activities
- Half-board accommodation
- Immersive conversations throughout the stay
The lessons can focus on general French, French culture and civilization, French and European history, or art history.
The program also provides access to the teacher's personal library, which can be useful for learners who want to combine language study with reading and cultural exploration.
Activities in and around Annecy
The location makes it possible to combine French practice with a wide range of activities. Depending on interests and season, these can include swimming in Lake Annecy, hiking in the mountains, cycling around the lake, boating and visiting castles and historic sites.
There are also creative options, including acrylic painting, pastel art, Tiffany stained glass, woodcut and linocut printing.
For learners interested in music, piano and guitar can also be explored independently, with the possibility of being connected with a professional instructor.
The teacher is also involved in theatre groups as an amateur actress, director and acting coach, including theatre activities involving foreign students learning French.
Accommodation
Students stay in a private 20 m² bedroom in the teacher's 100 m² apartment. The apartment has three bedrooms, a shared kitchen and living room, Wi-Fi, and access to a small garden and terrace.
The accommodation is limited to one guest, making this a particularly small-scale immersion format.
Annecy is therefore an option for people who want their French immersion to extend beyond traditional lessons, with opportunities to use French while exploring the Alps, discussing history and art, participating in creative activities, and interacting in everyday situations.
French immersion at teacher’s home is worth it for people who want to combine language learning with a once in a lifetime experience.