Best lakes around Saint-Franc are centered around Lac d'Aiguebelette, a natural lake located in the Savoie department of France. This area is situated in the southern end of the Jura massif, bordered by the Épine chain and Mont Tournier. The lake itself is known for its distinct green color, covers an area of 545 hectares, and reaches a maximum depth of 71 meters. Since 2015, it has been recognized as the first regional freshwater nature reserve in France.
Last updated: June 21, 2026
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The lookout is too overgrown. You can hardly see the lake anymore! What a shame!
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Beautiful spot almost at the Col de l'Epine.
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one of the most beautiful views in this area!
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Lake Aiguebelette is a natural lake located in France in the Savoie department in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. Main lake of the Savoyard Avant-Pays, in the southern end of the Jura massif, it is located approximately 10 kilometers from Chambéry, approximately 40 kilometers from Grenoble and approximately 100 kilometers from Lyon. It has an area of 545 hectares and is as such the seventh natural French lake after Lake Geneva (in part), Lake Hourtin and Carcans, Lake Grand-Lieu, Lake Bourget, Lake Annecy and Lake Marville (at Kerguelen). Bordered to the east by the Épine chain which culminates with Mont Grelle at 1,427 meters and to the west by Mont Tournier, its maximum depth is 71 meters. At first glance, it is characterized by its often green color, whereas, in the same region, Lake Annecy is bluer and Lake Bourget is more often steel gray. Lake Aiguebelette is a private lake which belongs to the Rivérieulx de Chambost de Lépin family and Électrcité de France, who have entrusted its management to the Communauté de Communes du Lac d'Aiguebelette. Its banks are shared between five riverside municipalities: Aiguebelette-le-Lac, Lépin-le-Lac, Saint-Alban-de-Montbel, Novalaise and Nances. In the southern part of the lake there are two islands, surrounded by reed beds. In order to preserve the quality of its waters and its environment, thermal motor boats have been prohibited on the lake since a decree of 1967. It has also been the first regional freshwater nature reserve in France since March 2015. Source: Wikipedia
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Magnificent lake in a mountain atmosphere, with a pretty road that goes around it, partly away from traffic. Do it clockwise.
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The Lac d'Aiguebelette is an essential place in the summer season. The road around the lake offers an easy ride that allows you to enjoy views of the mountains and the lake. There are a number of side roads and trails that will take you to the water's edge, as well as plenty of places to stop and cool off.
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The primary lake in the area is Lac d'Aiguebelette. It's a significant natural lake in the Savoie department, known for its often green color and serene atmosphere. You can also find excellent viewpoints overlooking the lake, such as Voues de l'Épine Viewpoint and the View of Lac d'Aiguebelette from Saint-Alban-de-Montbel Church.
Yes, Lac d'Aiguebelette is considered family-friendly. The road around the lake offers an easy ride with views of the mountains and the water, and there are numerous spots to stop and cool off. The viewpoint from Saint-Alban-de-Montbel Church is also noted as family-friendly.
Beyond enjoying the lake itself, the area around Saint-Franc offers various outdoor activities. You can find several cycling routes, including traffic-free bike rides and gravel biking trails. For those who prefer to explore on foot, there are also running trails available.
Yes, Lac d'Aiguebelette is a popular spot for swimming, especially when the weather is warm. There are many places along the shore to stop and cool off. The lake is known for its clean waters, and thermal motor boats have been prohibited since 1967 to preserve its quality.
Lac d'Aiguebelette is notable for its distinctive green color, contrasting with the bluer Lake Annecy and steel-gray Lake Bourget in the same region. It is also recognized as the first regional freshwater nature reserve in France since March 2015, highlighting its ecological significance and commitment to preservation.
To maintain the water quality and environment, thermal motor boats have been prohibited on Lac d'Aiguebelette since a decree in 1967. This ensures a peaceful atmosphere for visitors and protects the natural habitat.
For stunning panoramic views, consider visiting the Voues de l'Épine Viewpoint, which is located on the "Sardinian Way." Another excellent spot is the View of Lac d'Aiguebelette from Saint-Alban-de-Montbel Church, offering a beautiful all-round perspective over the lake, especially from a slightly elevated position near the church.
Visitors frequently praise Lac d'Aiguebelette for its magnificent mountain atmosphere and the pleasant road that circles it, much of which is away from heavy traffic. The opportunity to enjoy views of the mountains and the lake, along with numerous spots to stop and cool off, are highly appreciated.
Lac d'Aiguebelette is situated in the Savoie department of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region in France. It is approximately 10 kilometers from Chambéry, about 40 kilometers from Grenoble, and roughly 100 kilometers from Lyon, making it accessible for day trips or longer stays from these urban centers.
Yes, Lac d'Aiguebelette holds significant ecological importance. It has been designated as the first regional freshwater nature reserve in France since March 2015, underscoring efforts to preserve its unique environment and biodiversity.


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