Top 7 Lakes around Crêts-En-Belledonne

The most popular lakes in the area include the stunning trio of Lac Carré, Lac de Cottepens and Lac de la Motte, known for their mineral environment and unique light. The area around Refuge des 7 Laux, situated at 2,135 meters, is also a highly favored spot, offering an exceptional setting amidst these mountain lakes. Visitors also appreciate Léat refuge and lake for its peaceful atmosphere and views of the Bauges and Chartreuse massifs.

Yes, for a relaxed family outing, the Plan d'Eau de Morêtel-de-Mailles in Crêts-en-Belledonne offers picnic areas, tennis courts, and boule games, though swimming is prohibited. Another great option is the View of the Flumet basin, an artificial body of water with a flat, shaded path perfect for short bike rides or walks. Lake Curtillard is also considered family-friendly, nestled at the foot of the Belledonne peaks.

The lakes around Crêts-En-Belledonne are primarily high-altitude alpine lakes, offering breathtaking mountain scenery. You'll find a mineral environment with rocky landscapes, reflecting waters, and diverse flora. Lakes like Lac du Crozet are particularly striking in autumn when blueberry leaves turn red and birch trees display golden foliage. Many lakes are surrounded by prestigious peaks, providing a truly alpine experience.

The region offers a wide range of outdoor activities. Hiking is very popular, with trails leading to many of the alpine lakes. You can find various hiking routes, including moderate options like the Flumet Basin loop from Saint-Pierre-d'Allevard. Cycling is also a great way to explore, with routes such as the Allevard – View of the Flumet basin loop. For more detailed routes, you can explore Hiking around Crêts-En-Belledonne, Road Cycling Routes around Crêts-En-Belledonne, and Cycling around Crêts-En-Belledonne.

Yes, Lac Achard is a relatively easy-to-reach lake, accessible within about an hour's hike from Chamrousse. It's a fantastic spot for picnics and serves as a starting point for further exploration, though swimming and bivouacking are prohibited to protect the site. The View of the Flumet basin also offers easily accessible, flat paths for a leisurely walk.

The best time to visit the alpine lakes is generally during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn, when trails are clear of snow and weather conditions are more favorable for hiking. Autumn is particularly beautiful around lakes like Lac du Crozet, as the foliage turns vibrant colors. Some lakes, like Lac Achard, are also beautiful in winter, with well-maintained snowshoe trails available.

Yes, several options exist for overnight stays. The Refuge des 7 Laux offers accommodation at 2,135 meters, providing an exceptional setting. It's advisable to book your night in advance. The Léat refuge and lake also has a small unguarded chalet with ten beds and some nice bivouac spots nearby. Additionally, a refuge is available at Lacs de la Pra for those wishing to disconnect at the foot of the Grande Lauzière, and Chalet d'Arbarétan is near Lac des Grenouilles.

Yes, some lakes in the Belledonne massif are known for fishing. Lac Noir, which is the largest of the lakes in the Combe de la Grande Valloire (along with Lac Blanc, Lac de la Folle, and Lac Glacé), is particularly worth exploring for fishing during summer. Lac de Lônes is also mentioned as a natural site offering opportunities for fishing.

Visitors consistently praise the magical and exceptional sites, highlighting the stunning natural beauty and the serene, wild atmosphere. Many appreciate the unique light and mineral universe found around lakes like Lac Carré, Lac de Cottepens and Lac de la Motte. The superb refuges, often offering food made from local ingredients and a good atmosphere, also contribute significantly to the positive experience. The fresh breeze at higher altitudes and the opportunity to disconnect are frequently mentioned as highlights.

While swimming is prohibited in some areas like Plan d'Eau de Morêtel-de-Mailles and Lac Achard to protect the sites, Lac de Lônes is mentioned as a natural site for water sports, relaxation, and fishing. It also offers opportunities for running, mountain biking, and walking around its shores.

Many lakes in the region offer spectacular views. Lac du Crozet, perched at 1,974 meters, provides stunning views of the Alps, Grenoble, and the Grésivaudan Valley. Léat refuge and lake offers beautiful views of the Bauges and Chartreuse massifs. Lac des Grenouilles, the northernmost lake in the massif, provides vistas of Montraillant, the Chartreuse, and the Lauzière massif.

Beyond the more popular spots, the Belledonne massif holds several less-frequented but equally stunning lakes. While many hikers stop at Lac Blanc in the Combe de la Grande Valloire, exploring the nearby Lac Noir (the largest), Lac de la Folle, and Lac Glacé can offer a more secluded experience within a mineral and alpine environment. The Lacs de la Pra, including Lac David, Lac Claret, Lac Merlat, Lac Longuet, and Lac Bernard, symbolize entry into the wilder parts of Belledonne and are worth discovering.