Top 12 Lakes around Les Allues

For an easily accessible and picturesque experience, Lake Tuéda is ideal. Situated in the heart of the Tuéda Nature Reserve, it offers a flat walk around the lake, perfect for discovering the rich Alpine ecosystem and admiring the surrounding mountains. The Vallon du Fruit area near the lake also provides green pastures for a relaxed stroll.

The lakes and surrounding nature reserves are rich in wildlife. Around Lake Tuéda, you can observe a diverse Alpine ecosystem. Lac des Fées is known as a haunt for marmots, while Lac de Chanrouge, accessible via the Col Rouge, is a frequent spot for ibex sightings.

Yes, for those seeking a more strenuous adventure, the Lacs du Mont Coua are a collection of magnificent high-mountain lakes located above 2,500m. A walk to these lakes from Le Plan and Lake Tuéda involves approximately 7 hours of hiking with a total ascent of 1,000m, offering a sumptuous high-mountain setting. Plan d'Amont Lake, at 2,078 meters, also serves as an excellent starting point for day hikes into the Vanoise National Park.

The area around Les Allues offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including routes around Lake Tuéda and to the Refuge du Saut. For more intense experiences, there are mountain hikes, and even running trails. Mountain biking is also popular, with access to lakes like Lac du Lou via 4x4 tracks.

Yes, several lakes offer amenities. The Refuge du Lac du Lou, located at 2,045 meters, provides a warm welcome with quality cuisine using organic and local products, and offers 33 beds for overnight stays. Similarly, the Refuge des lacs Merlet, at 2,417 meters in the Vanoise National Park, offers an intimate atmosphere with a 14-bed dormitory and is guarded in summer.

The high-altitude lakes around Les Allues are best visited during the warmer months, typically from late spring to early autumn (June to September), when trails are clear of snow and the weather is most favorable for hiking and outdoor activities. Some refuges, like the Refuge du Lac du Lou, also open for the winter season, offering a different experience.

The lakes are set within a stunning alpine environment, characterized by high-altitude settings, rich ecosystems, and impressive mountain peaks. The Plan de Tuéda Nature Reserve, surrounding Lake Tuéda, is particularly noted for its diverse flora and fauna. Many lakes, like Plan d'Amont Lake, are nestled at the foot of peaks over 3,000 meters, offering dramatic scenery.

Yes, many of the lakes offer opportunities for circular walks. For instance, there are several hiking routes that loop around Lake Tuéda, allowing you to explore its surroundings and the nature reserve.

While not entirely hidden, Lac des Fées (Lake of the Fairies) is described as 'discrete but nonetheless superb.' It's often found to the right of the path when heading towards the Refuge du Saut from Lake Tuéda, offering a mystical atmosphere and a chance to spot marmots.

Access points to the lakes often have useful car parks. For example, Plan d'Amont Lake has a convenient car park that serves as a starting point for various hikes. For Refuge des lacs Merlet, it is easily accessible from the Col de la Platta car park.

Visitors consistently appreciate the magnificent landscapes and the rich Alpine ecosystem. The opportunity to discover stunning natural settings, from accessible walks to challenging high-mountain endeavors, is highly valued. The presence of well-maintained refuges offering quality local cuisine and accommodation also enhances the experience for many.