Top 20 Lakes around Gap
Best lakes around Gap are situated in the Hautes-Alpes department of southeastern France, offering diverse landscapes. The region is characterized by its mountainous terrain and significant water bodies, including one of Western Europe's largest artificial lakes. This area provides opportunities for water-based activities and hiking amidst natural beauty. The Durance and Ubaye rivers feed many of these lakes, contributing to the region's distinct geography.
Best lakes around Gap
- The most popular lakes is Lake Sainte-Marguerite, a lake located at…
Last updated: April 24, 2026
Lake Sainte-Marguerite
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Serre-Ponçon Dam
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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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Singletrack descent to Lac de Serre-Ponçon
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Lakeside Trail at Lake Serre-Ponçon
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Magnificent view of the lake
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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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This is where you will have a breathtaking view of the Serre Ponçon lake. By going to this viewpoint, you will be able to admire the turquoise waters of the lake, surrounded by the rugged peaks of the French Alps. The area offers peaceful hiking trails and is a great place to take a break and admire the natural beauty of this large artificial lake, which reflects the surrounding mountains.
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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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Unfortunately, swimming is not allowed in the lake, it is prohibited
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes around Gap are best for swimming and water sports?
For a wide range of water sports and swimming, Lac de Serre-Ponçon is an excellent choice. Often called a 'sea in the heart of the mountains,' it offers boat hire, wakeboarding, water skiing, paddleboarding, sailing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing. You can also find equipped beaches for swimming and sunbathing. For a more serene swimming experience in a mountain setting, Lac de Saint-Apollinaire allows swimming and has shaded areas and benches, making it ideal for families.
Are there family-friendly lakes near Gap?
Yes, several lakes are great for families. Lac de Saint-Apollinaire is a small mountain lake with swimming allowed, benches, and shaded areas, plus a bar for dining. Lake Sainte-Marguerite is also suitable for family hikes and picnics, with visitors often spotting marmots. The area around Lake Serre-Ponçon also features family-friendly beaches and activities.
What are the best lakes for hiking with scenic views?
For stunning panoramic views, Lake Sainte-Marguerite, located at 2,227 meters, offers crystal-clear waters and views of the Écrins massif. The hike to Lac des Sirènes (2,396 meters) from Merlette farmhouse provides a challenging ascent and breathtaking alpine scenery. Crachet Lake, a high-altitude lake, is also a tranquil spot, with the option to continue hiking towards Col du Crachet and Pointe de l'Eyssina for magnificent views of Haute-Ubaye, Queyras, and the Écrins massif.
When is the best time to visit the lakes around Gap?
The summer months are generally the most popular for visiting the lakes, especially for swimming and water sports. High-altitude lakes like Crachet Lake are best visited in early summer, as they can sometimes dry up in August during hot, dry periods. For lakes accessible via chairlifts, such as Lake Sainte-Marguerite, summer is the ideal season when the lifts are operational.
Are there any historical or notable landmarks near the lakes?
Yes, near Lac de Serre-Ponçon, you can visit the picturesque Chapelle Saint-Michel, which stands as a charming island in the lake. The Serre-Ponçon Dam itself is a significant engineering feat, one of the largest earthen dams in Europe, and its construction led to the creation of the lake and significant regional development. The town of Embrun, located at the eastern end of Lac de Serre-Ponçon, is also a charming historical spot to explore.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near the lakes around Gap?
The region offers a variety of outdoor activities. Besides water sports on Lac de Serre-Ponçon, you can enjoy extensive hiking. For easy walks, explore routes like 'The Gorges de la Méouge loop' or 'Lauzerot Lake loop'. Mountain biking is also popular, with trails such as 'Méale Loop Trail' and 'Boucle du barrage de Serre-Ponçon'. For more challenging mountain hikes, consider routes like 'Morgon Peak' or 'Lac de Sainte-Marguerite loop'. You can find more details on these activities in the Easy hikes around Gap, MTB Trails around Gap, and Mountain Hikes around Gap guides.
Are there any easy walks around the lakes?
Yes, there are several easy walks. The Lakeside Trail at Lake Serre-Ponçon offers a very nice walking tour with small ascents and descents along the shore. Lac de Saint-Apollinaire is also considered an easily accessible mountain lake, perfect for a relaxed stroll with family. For more options, check out the Easy hikes around Gap guide.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Gap?
Visitors frequently praise the stunning natural beauty, the vibrant colors of the water, and the majestic mountain backdrops. The opportunity for diverse activities, from tranquil picnics and swimming to challenging hikes and exhilarating water sports, is also highly valued. Many appreciate the family-friendly amenities and the sense of peace found in these natural settings, often describing places like Lac de Saint-Apollinaire as 'magical'.
Can I cycle around any of the lakes?
Yes, Lake Serre-Ponçon is particularly popular for cycling. You can cycle all the way around it or choose to do a partial loop by utilizing the bridge. The area offers scenic routes with views of the lake, such as the Savines Bridge on Lake Serre-Ponçon. For specific cycling routes, you can explore the MTB Trails around Gap guide, which includes routes like 'Boucle du barrage de Serre-Ponçon'.
Are there any lakes that are less crowded or more tranquil?
For a tranquil and scenic spot, Crachet Lake is a small, high-altitude lake known for its shallow and exceptionally clear waters, ideal for those seeking peace. While Lake Sainte-Marguerite can be popular, it offers moments of tranquility, especially for hikers seeking a serene alpine experience. Lac de Saint-Apollinaire also provides a serene atmosphere, perfect for relaxation without extensive effort.
What unique natural formations can be seen near the lakes?
Near Lac de Serre-Ponçon, you can observe the unique 'Demoiselles Coiffées' rock formations from viewing platforms like the one at Le Sauze-du-Lac. The entire region is characterized by its mountainous terrain, with the majestic peaks of the Écrins massif providing a dramatic backdrop to many of the lakes, including Lake Sainte-Marguerite and Lac des Sirènes.
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