Top 20 Lakes around Evolène

The Blue Lake (Lac Bleu d'Arolla) is renowned for its strikingly vibrant blue color, a result of glacial clay and algae. It's an iconic mountain lake that offers a remarkable natural spectacle. Another beautiful spot is Lake Moiry, known for its impressive dam and striking turquoise glacial waters, beautifully embedded between mountains.

Yes, the area around the Place Moulin Dam offers an easy walk suitable for the whole family. This significant artificial lake, one of the largest in the Aosta Valley, provides spectacular scenery and a relaxing path. The path to the Prarayer Hut, which overlooks an artificial lake formed by the Buthier stream, is also a mule track accessible to anyone, including families with prams.

You can find a variety of hiking experiences. For a more rugged alpine adventure, consider the path to Lac d'Arpitettaz, a small mountain lake. While some sections can be challenging, alternative routes offer a more manageable approach. For general hiking inspiration, explore the Mountain Hikes around Evolène guide, which includes routes near lakes like the Aiguilles Rouges Hut – Lac Bleu loop.

Lac d'Arbey, situated at the Alpage d'Arbey, offers a picturesque setting with old buildings and picnic areas. Its most captivating feature is the breathtaking view of the Dent-Blanche, which is perfectly reflected in the lake's waters, especially at sunset. A moderate 7.6 km hike from Evolène leads to this beautifully flowered area.

Yes, the region offers various cycling opportunities. You can find gravel biking routes around Evolène, some of which pass by lakes or offer views of the surrounding water bodies. Check out the Gravel biking around Evolène guide for routes like the Former Cervino Railway – Goillet Lake loop. For road cycling, the Road Cycling Routes around Evolène guide includes options such as the Saint-Luc, Zinal and Barrage de Moiry loop.

The summer months are generally ideal for visiting the lakes around Evolène, as the weather is pleasant for hiking and outdoor activities. Many buvettes (refreshment rooms) and facilities, like those at Lac d'Arbey, are open during this season. Some lakes, like the Blue Lake, are also popular destinations for winter visitors, offering a different kind of scenic beauty.

While specific cafes directly at every lake might be limited, areas like Alpage d'Arbey have charming refreshment rooms (buvettes) open in summer. The Prarayer Hut offers accommodation, a pub, and a restaurant, making it a great stop for those exploring the artificial lake it overlooks. For broader options, the nearby villages of Evolène, Les Haudères, and Arolla offer various cafes, restaurants, and accommodation choices.

The lakes in the Val d'Hérens offer diverse and spectacular views. You can expect to see breathtaking mountain reflections, such as the Dent-Blanche in Lac d'Arbey. Glacial lakes like Lake Moiry provide stunning turquoise waters set against alpine peaks, while artificial lakes like Place Moulin Dam offer impressive engineering marvels within dramatic landscapes.

The Blue Lake is easily accessible, being only a 40-minute walk from La Gouille or an hour and a half from Arolla. The Place Moulin Dam also provides convenient parking facilities with clean, 24-hour restrooms, making it a practical starting point for exploring the area.

Visitors frequently praise the stunning natural beauty and the vibrant colors of the lakes. For instance, the Blue Lake is described as a 'gorgeous location to take a rest stop' and 'absolutely worthwhile' despite its popularity. The magical blue of Lake Moiry is also highlighted as 'beautiful to look at' and a 'beautiful place to hang about at'.

When heading to Lac d'Arpitettaz from Zinal, it's recommended to stay on the left bank of the river towards Cabane du Petit Mountet. This avoids a difficult and steep passage known as 'Pas du Chasseur' which involves chains. This route adds about 10 minutes but offers peace of mind and the chance to see the Zinal Waterfall. The lake itself is a beautiful mountain lake, perfect for a picnic spot with reflections of the Turtmann glacier.