Top 20 Lakes around Montgenèvre

For breathtaking views and rewarding hikes, consider Lac Gignoux (Lake of Seven Colours), known for its brilliant and unreal scenery, and Lake of the Angels, which offers stunning views of Mont Chaberton. Both are accessible by hiking from Montgenèvre.

Yes, several lakes are ideal for families. The Lacs de Montgenèvre (Leisure Base) within the village offer activities like fishing, pedal boating, and canoeing, along with picnic areas. Lago Nero di Bousson is also considered family-friendly, though it can be popular with motorized vehicles. Lago Freddo of Pian Gimont is another great option, easily accessible and near a refuge.

For swimming, Plan d'eau du Pontillas in La Salle les Alpes (approx. 13 km away) is considered the closest lake with a beach. Further afield, Plage du Lac de la Roche de Rame (approx. 23.5 km) is highly rated for its water quality. You can also swim in Lac de Cristol on warm summer days.

Beyond hiking and swimming, the area around Montgenèvre's lakes offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous mountain hikes, road cycling routes, and running trails. The Lacs de Montgenèvre leisure base also provides pedal boating and canoeing.

The warmer months are generally the best time to visit, as the lakes transform into recreational hubs. Late spring to early autumn offers ideal conditions for hiking, swimming, and enjoying the alpine scenery. Lac de Cristol is particularly stunning in autumn with its larch forests.

Yes, Lago Freddo of Pian Gimont is noted as dog-friendly. While specific regulations for other lakes vary, many hiking trails in the region are suitable for dogs, but always ensure they are on a leash and you clean up after them.

Yes, Lago Freddo of Pian Gimont is easily accessible by car. Lago Nero di Bousson and Lago Nero (near Sauze d'Oulx) can also be reached by motorized vehicles, though this can sometimes lead to more traffic.

Lac Gignoux (Lake of Seven Colours) is celebrated for its 'unreal' and brilliant scenery, often described as a hidden gem. It's within easy hiking distance of Montgenèvre and offers a truly unique landscape.

The Lacs de Montgenèvre (Leisure Base) has a snack chalet and picnic areas. Lago Nero di Bousson is near the Capanna Mautino refuge, and Lago Freddo of Pian Gimont is in front of the Gimont hut where you can stop for lunch. Lago Nero (near Sauze d'Oulx) offers tables with benches and even a barbecue spot.

The Lacs du Chenaillet, located in the Fonts valley towards Italy, include several small lakes like Lac Noir, Lac du Rouséou, and Lac des Sarailles. Notably, Lac des Sarailles reflects Mount Chenaillet, which is an interesting geological site formed from ancient seabed rocks, offering a unique natural feature.

Visitors frequently praise the brilliant and unreal landscapes, the tranquility, and the diverse opportunities for outdoor activities. The komoot community has shared over 190 photos and given more than 300 upvotes, highlighting the area's natural beauty and recreational appeal.

Yes, Lac de Serre-Ponçon, while further afield, is a viable day trip option. It's a much larger lake offering extensive opportunities for swimming, paddleboarding, and water parks, providing a different experience from the alpine lakes closer to Montgenèvre.