Top 20 Lakes around Aire d'adhésion du Parc national de la Vanoise

For families seeking easy access and wildlife viewing, Lake du Saut is an excellent choice. It's known for a very easy hike and the chance to observe around fifty marmots. Similarly, Lac Blanc is also accessible for hikers of all levels and offers opportunities to spot marmots.

Lake Tignes is a natural lake whose waters descend directly from the Grande Motte glacier. In winter, it freezes completely, allowing a footpath to cross it. Lac des Vaches is uniquely crossed by a path of flat stones, letting hikers walk across its surface. Lac Long, at the foot of the Glacier de la Grande Casse, is notable for its very green color and the sounds of the melting glacier.

Yes, Lake Tignes completely freezes in winter, transforming into a unique playground. A footpath crosses the frozen lake, linking Tignes le Lac to Tignes Val Claret, and various activities like sled dogs and ice diving are offered.

The Vanoise region is rich in diverse wildlife. You have a good chance of spotting marmots, especially around Lake du Saut and Lac Blanc. The wider Vanoise National Park and its buffer zone are also home to iconic alpine creatures like Alpine ibex and chamois.

Yes, Lac du Lou has the Refuge du Lac du Lou, located at 2,045 meters above sea level, offering a warm welcome and accommodation. Similarly, the Lacs Merlet are situated near a charming refuge at 2,417 meters, providing an intimate atmosphere for overnight stays, with tent pitching also possible by reservation.

Many challenging hikes lead to the high-altitude lakes. For instance, the historic hike from Pralognan to the Col de la Vanoise passes Lac des Vaches and Lac Long. You can find more difficult hiking routes in the region, such as the "Col de la Vanoise - Parc National de la Vanoise - Loop" or "The Aiguille de la Grande Sassière - Alpes Grées," by exploring the hiking guide for the Aire d'adhésion du Parc national de la Vanoise.

While swimming in natural lakes in the Vanoise region is generally not regulated, visitors should be aware of potential risks. These can include steep slopes, hidden drop-offs, and the very cold temperatures of high-altitude glacial lakes.

Many lakes in the region boast stunning mountain backdrops. Lac des Vaches offers a magnificent panorama from its high mountain setting. Lake Sans Fond provides an exceptional view of Mont Blanc, Beaufortain, and Vanoise. Lac Blanc also offers superb views of the Parracé tooth.

Lake Chevril, formed by the Tignes dam, is notable for its historical context, as the old village of Tignes disappeared beneath its waters in 1952. The dam itself features a gigantic wall fresco representing Hercules, and the lake is adorned with a beautiful statue by Livio Benedetti called "The Lady of the Lake."

The region offers a variety of mountain biking trails. While specific trails may not lead directly to every lake, you can find routes like the "Tour des Arcs" or "Boucle d'enduro de Les Arcs" in the vicinity. For more details on mountain biking options, refer to the MTB Trails guide for the Aire d'adhésion du Parc national de la Vanoise.

The best time to visit largely depends on your desired activities. Summer (typically June to September) is ideal for hiking and enjoying the clear waters and lush alpine scenery. In winter, some lakes like Lake Tignes freeze over, offering unique winter sports opportunities.

Yes, Lac Long is characterized by its very green color, reflecting its glacial origins. Lac Garattaleu displays striking verdigris colors that mirror the surrounding lush greenery. Lake Sans Fond is known for its almost black water.