The best walks and hikes around Lac de Roselend

The Lac de Roselend area offers a wide variety of hiking opportunities, with over 300 routes recorded on komoot. These trails cater to all levels, from easy strolls to challenging day hikes, ensuring there's something for every adventurer.

Yes, there are several easy and family-friendly options. The area around Lac Saint-Guérin is particularly suitable, featuring a spectacular 83-meter-long Himalayan footbridge that connects its banks, suspended more than 20 meters above the lake. This walk is accessible to various mobility levels and offers a unique experience.

Hikers can explore several impressive landmarks and natural features. The Roselend Dam itself is a significant sight, and the rebuilt Roselend Chapel offers beautiful views. Beyond the main lake, you'll find other picturesque bodies of water like Saint-Guérin, Gittaz, Fairy Lake, Lake Tournant, and Lake of Love, all set against a backdrop of majestic peaks like Roc du Vent and Aiguille du Grand Fond.

Yes, the region is well-suited for circular hikes. A popular option is the Roselend Chapel – Roselend Chapel loop from Bar-Restaurant des Lanches, a moderate 10.5 km trail that takes about 3 hours and 15 minutes. This route allows you to experience the diverse alpine terrain and scenic views.

The best time to hike around Lac de Roselend is typically from late spring to early autumn (June to September). During these months, the alpine meadows are lush with blooming rhododendrons, the weather is generally favorable, and the trails are clear of snow, offering the most accessible and picturesque conditions.

While hiking through the alpine meadows and along the trails, you might spot various local wildlife. Marmots are a common sight in the 'alpages' (high-altitude pastures), adding to the natural charm of the area. Keep an eye out for diverse bird species and other small mammals that inhabit the Beaufortain massif.

Absolutely. For experienced hikers seeking a challenge, the Lake of Love – Coin Pass loop from Barrage de Roselend is a demanding option. This difficult 21.5 km route involves over 1100 meters of elevation gain and typically takes around 8 hours to complete, offering extensive views and a rigorous workout.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 1,100 reviews. Reviewers often praise the stunning turquoise waters of the lake, the dramatic mountain vistas, and the diverse network of trails that cater to all ability levels, from gentle lakeside paths to challenging ascents.

Many trails in the Lac de Roselend area are dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful alpine scenery with your canine companion. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash, especially in areas with livestock or protected wildlife, and to check specific trail regulations before heading out.

Yes, Lac de Roselend is a hub for various outdoor activities. Beyond hiking, you can enjoy cycling and mountain biking on dedicated routes. The calm waters of the lake also allow for activities like canoeing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding in designated areas. Fishing is also popular in the cold, deep waters, which are classified for salmonids.

The terrain around Lac de Roselend is quite varied. You'll find gentle paths along the lake shores, but also more rugged trails ascending through alpine meadows and rocky sections. Elevation gains can range from a few hundred meters for moderate loops, like the Roche Parstire – View of the Roselend dam loop from Barrage de Roselend with 611 meters of ascent, to over 1000 meters for more difficult, longer excursions.

While not directly adjacent, some longer and more challenging hikes in the broader Beaufortain massif, such as those extending towards the Refuge de Presset from the Cormet de Roselend area, can offer distant but spectacular views of Mont Blanc on clear days. These typically require a good level of fitness and experience.