Top 20 Lakes around Réallon
Best lakes around Réallon, a village in the Hautes-Alpes region of France, serve as a base for exploring various lakes. The area features panoramic views of Lac de Serre-Ponçon and the surrounding peaks of the Écrins National Park. Réallon offers access to diverse lake experiences, from accessible family locations to high-altitude hiking destinations.
Best lakes around Réallon
- The most popular lakes is Lac de Saint-Apollinaire, a lake that is family-friendly and permits swimming. It is known for its refreshing…
Last updated: June 24, 2026
Lac de Saint-Apollinaire
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Savines Bridge on Lake Serre-Ponçon
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Mount Guillaume
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Chanteloube Viaduct
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Lac des Sirènes
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Popular around Réallon
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Tips from the Community
I tried to get up with my bike. push biken a lot, but without knowing what the terrain would be I ended walking up the last 800m aprox. Maybe I could have made it with bike to the top, but hell it was certainly the most crazy things have done. Great, technical rock downhill.
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Easy access with the cable cars, but beware of the sudden change in altitude. Magnificent views follow, along well-marked but sometimes steep trails (not a particularly family-friendly hike, especially for older people). Well worth planning a day trip.
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The Chanteloube viaduct, located on the Serre-Ponçon lake, is an unusual place. Built for a railway line that was never completed, this partially submerged viaduct offers a fascinating spectacle, with its arches reflected in the turquoise waters of the lake.
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Very nice to pass over this bridge but pay attention to the traffic.
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The loop to the Joubelle cabin is very pleasant to do, from the lake parking lot.
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The Chanteloube viaduct, located in the town of Chorges, emerges like a silent vestige of a bygone era. Started in the early 1900s, it was initially intended to connect Chorges to Barcelonnette by rail. The project was finally abandoned in the 1930s. Each year, in the spring, as the lake swells from melting snow and seasonal rains, the viaduct disappears beneath the waters. However, in winter, when the lake level drops, the viaduct emerges from its aquatic lethargy, revealing its majestic arches and solid pillars.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there family-friendly lakes around Réallon?
Yes, Lac de Saint-Apollinaire is highly recommended for families. It's a magnificent small mountain lake where swimming is permitted, and it offers benches and shaded areas. Lacas Lake with its Iscle leisure center also provides a relaxing spot for families to enjoy a refreshing dip.
What are some accessible lakes for easy walks near Réallon?
Lac de Saint-Apollinaire is easily accessible by car, just about 3 kilometers from the village, making it great for leisurely strolls. It's considered one of the most beautiful natural sites in Serre-Ponçon, offering breathtaking views.
What unique natural features can I see around the lakes near Réallon?
The area is known for its stunning natural landscapes, often featuring panoramic views of Lac de Serre-Ponçon and the surrounding peaks of the Écrins National Park. From the Réallon resort, particularly its summit at 2,150 meters, you can enjoy unforgettable 360° panoramas of Lac de Serre-Ponçon. The Crêtes trail also provides stunning views of the lake.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes near Réallon?
The lakes offer diverse experiences throughout the year. While many are ideal for summer activities like swimming, some, like Lac de Saint-Apollinaire, are beautiful even in winter. High-altitude lakes are best visited in summer and early autumn when trails are clear of snow and flora is abundant.
Are there opportunities for wild swimming around Réallon?
Yes, swimming is permitted at Lac de Saint-Apollinaire, offering a refreshing experience. Lacas Lake also provides a place for a refreshing dip. For those seeking high-altitude beauty, Lac Sainte-Marguerite offers crystal-clear waters, ideal for a refreshing break after a hike.
What kind of hiking trails are available around the lakes?
You'll find a range of hiking trails, from family-friendly paths around Lac de Saint-Apollinaire to more challenging high-altitude routes leading to lakes like Laus Lake, Brun Lake, and Lac des Sirènes. These trails often pass through larch forests and mountain pastures, offering panoramic views.
What cultural or historic sites can be found near the lakes?
A notable man-made monument is the Chanteloube Viaduct on Lac de Serre-Ponçon. This partially submerged viaduct, built for a never-completed railway, offers a unique visual with its arches reflected in the water. It's particularly visible when the lake's water level drops.
What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes besides hiking?
The region around Réallon offers excellent opportunities for cycling. You can explore various MTB trails, road cycling routes, and touring bicycle routes that often provide stunning views of the lakes and surrounding landscapes.
Are there any high-altitude lakes that offer challenging hikes?
Yes, Laus Lake and Brun Lake are high-altitude lakes accessible from Réallon, situated in a remote and wild environment ideal for hikers seeking a more immersive nature experience. Lac des Sirènes, at 2,396 meters, also offers a challenging but rewarding experience with magnificent views, though some trails can be steep.
Where can I find the best panoramic views of Lac de Serre-Ponçon?
From the Réallon resort, especially its summit at 2,150 meters, you can enjoy unforgettable 360° panoramas of Lac de Serre-Ponçon. Mount Guillaume also offers a fantastic 200° view of the lake and its region after a scenic ascent.
What wildlife can I spot around the lakes?
Around high-altitude lakes like Lac Sainte-Marguerite, it's possible to spot marmots, birds of prey, or chamois, especially during early summer when the flora is abundant. The remote and wild environments of Laus Lake and Brun Lake also provide opportunities for wildlife observation.
Are there any unique bridges or structures to see on the lakes?
Beyond the Chanteloube Viaduct, the Savines Bridge on Lake Serre-Ponçon allows you to cross the lake, offering a different perspective. While busy, it's a significant structure in the landscape.
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