Top 20 Lakes around La Grave

Visitors frequently enjoy Lake Cerces, known for its superb alpine setting at the foot of Pointe des Cerces with views of the Aiguilles d'Arves. Another favorite is Lac du Chambon and its dam, recognized for its crystalline colors and large reservoir. The Arsine Glacier Lake is also highly regarded for its fascinating walk through diverse landscapes.

Yes, several lakes are suitable for families. Pontet Lake is categorized as family-friendly and offers a beautiful setting at 2,000 meters. Lac du Puy Vachier is also considered a family-friendly destination, accessible via cable cars and a walk, providing spectacular views of the Écrins National Park peaks.

The lakes around La Grave offer a rich diversity of natural features. You can find mineral landscapes with rocky outcrops around Lac du Puy Vachier, stunning views of the La Meije glacier and 'Le Rateau' pic from Lac Noir and Lake Lérié on the Emparis Plateau, and thriving alpine flora around Lac du Goléon. The walk to Arsine Glacier Lake reveals mountain pastures, moraines, stony rocks, and glaciers, often bustling with marmot activity.

The lakes are generally best visited outside of peak season to avoid crowds and fully enjoy their serene beauty. During summer, the activity of marmots is in full swing, especially around Arsine Glacier Lake. It's advisable to check snow conditions, especially at the start of the season (June), for higher altitude lakes like Lac Noir and Lake Lérié.

Yes, on warm days, visitors can refresh themselves with a dip in the cool waters of Pontet Lake, which is situated at approximately 2,000 meters and offers spectacular views.

Beyond hiking, the region offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous mountain biking trails, such as those in the MTB Trails around La Grave guide. Cycling enthusiasts can explore routes like the 'Cascade de la Pisse – Lake Chambon loop' found in the Cycling around La Grave guide. For runners, there are trails like the 'Torrent du Gâ – Lake Lérié loop' and 'La Grave – Puy Vachier Lake loop' detailed in the Running Trails around La Grave guide. Pontet Lake is also a known starting point for paragliders.

Many lakes are accessible via hiking trails. The hike to Lac Noir and Lake Lérié on the Emparis plateau provides an exceptional setting. Lac du Puy Vachier can be reached by about an hour's walk after taking the Meije Glacier Cable Cars, or through a beautiful larch forest. The walk to Arsine Glacier Lake is described as fascinating and diverse. For specific running routes that pass by lakes, check the Running Trails around La Grave guide, which includes loops like 'La Grave – Puy Vachier Lake'.

Yes, Lac du Chambon and its dam is a highlight that includes parking facilities, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.

Lac du Goléon is special for its opportunity to discover the alpine flora that thrives around its waters. It provides a stunning natural mirror reflecting the surrounding mountains and sky, charming visitors with its tranquility and unique ecosystem.

Yes, the region is known for its glacial formations. Arsine Glacier Lake was recently formed by the melting of the Glacier d'Arsine, and the walk to it reveals diverse landscapes including glaciers. From Lac Noir and Lake Lérié on the Emparis Plateau, you can enjoy magnificent views of the La Meije glacier and the majestic north face of La Meije.

Visitors particularly appreciate the breathtaking scenery, the tranquility of the alpine environment, and the diverse landscapes offered by the lakes. Many enjoy the opportunity for hiking through mountain pastures, moraines, and forests, as well as the stunning views of surrounding peaks like the Aiguilles d'Arves and the La Meije glacier. The chance to refresh in cool waters and observe wildlife like marmots also adds to the appeal.