Top 20 Lakes in Hautes-Alpes

Visitors frequently enjoy Lake Sainte-Marguerite, known for its beautiful forest paths and being swimmable in summer. Another favorite is Lac Gignoux (Lake of Seven Colours), a natural monument with a brilliant landscape that is not particularly difficult to reach. Lake Sainte-Anne also offers incredible views and can be explored as part of a scenic loop with Mirror Lake.

Yes, several lakes in Hautes-Alpes are ideal for families. Lake Sainte-Marguerite is a superb hike that can be done with the family, offering picnic spots and opportunities to see marmots. Lac de Saint-Apollinaire is easily accessible by car or a short walk, featuring benches, shaded areas, and a bar, making it perfect for a family outing. Pontet Lake is also noted as family-friendly.

The region boasts diverse natural features. Lac de l'Eychauda, a glacial lake in the Écrins National Park, has a distinctive milky appearance from the Séguret Foran glacier's meltwater. Lac de l'Orceyrette is surrounded by golden larch forests, especially stunning in autumn. Lac des Cordes offers a wonderful spot of greenery and calm after a climb through a larch forest, leading to an alpine pasture with views of Italian ridges.

For those looking to swim, Lake Sainte-Marguerite is swimmable in summer, though the water can be refreshing. Lac de Saint-Apollinaire also allows swimming. Lac du Pontet offers cool waters for a refreshing dip on hot days, and swimming is possible in Lac de l'Orceyrette for the brave. Green Lake permits swimming at your own risk.

Yes, the Hautes-Alpes is known for its high-altitude mountain lakes. Lake Sainte-Marguerite is considered one of the most beautiful high-altitude lakes around Serre-Ponçon, situated at 2227m. Lac du Pontet is at about 2,000 meters, and Lac des Béraudes is a rewarding hiking destination at 2504 meters, near Briançon.

The region offers numerous outdoor activities. You can find extensive mountain hikes, including challenging routes like the Morgon Peak loop. For cyclists, there are MTB trails and gravel biking routes, such as the Col du Granon. Lac du Pontet is also an ideal starting point for paragliders.

Many lakes provide stunning mountain vistas. Lake Sainte-Anne offers an incredible view, especially when combined with Mirror Lake. Lac du Pontet provides stunning views of the region, and Lac Sainte-Marguerite boasts panoramic views of the Écrins massif. The Lacs Noir et Lérié on the Emparis plateau offer unparalleled views of the Meije massif and its glaciers.

Yes, Lac de Serre-Ponçon is France's largest dam and one of Europe's largest earthen dams, marking significant economic and tourism growth for the region. When water levels are low, the tiny Chapelle Saint-Michel, standing on a small island, becomes visible, revealing unique landscapes carved by weather and time.

Visitors particularly appreciate the stunning natural beauty and tranquility. Many highlight the superb hiking opportunities, the chance to picnic by the water, and the possibility of spotting wildlife like marmots. The crystal-clear waters, panoramic mountain views, and the serene atmosphere of these diverse lakes are frequently praised.

Lac de l'Orceyrette is especially magnificent in autumn, surrounded by a golden larch forest. Similarly, Lac de Cristol is particularly stunning when the larches turn golden, providing a peaceful escape between Clarée and Serre-Chevalier.

Lac de l'Eychauda is located within the heart of the Écrins National Park, serving as a refuge for biodiversity. This makes it a prime spot for experiencing untouched nature and observing local flora and fauna.