Attractions and Places To See around Lac de Roselend - Top 8
Best attractions and places to see around Lac de Roselend include natural features, engineering marvels, and cultural sites in the French Alps. The region is centered around the alpine lake, known for its distinct waters and surrounding mountain landscape. Key features include the impressive Roselend Dam and various mountain passes offering panoramic views. The area provides opportunities to explore both natural beauty and historical landmarks.
Best attractions and places to see around Lac de Roselend
- The most popular attractions is Roselend Dam, a man-made monument that is an impressive arch-gravity dam. This monumental structure created Lac de Roselend and offers unique perspectives on the lake and surrounding mountains.
- Another must-see spot is By the lake, a natural area offering scenic views of Lac de Roselend. This section provides opportunities to experience the lake's environment, including wooded areas.
- Visitors also love Roselend Chapel, a religious building with historical significance. The chapel was rebuilt after the dam's construction and houses photographs documenting the dam's history.
- Lac de Roselend is known for its mountain passes, historical sites, and scenic lake areas. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from engineering feats to natural landscapes.
- The attractions around Lac de Roselend are appreciated by the komoot community, with 7 highlights and 17 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
Roselend Dam
Highlight • Monument
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Ascent of the Cormet de Roselend from Beaufort
Highlight (Segment) • Mountain Pass
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By the lake
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Climb to Col du Pré from Arêches
Highlight (Segment) • Mountain Pass
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View of Lac de Roselend and Barrage de Roselend from Col du Pré
Highlight (Segment) • Viewpoint
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Tips from the Community
Here is the route for the ascent of the Cormet de Roselend starting from Beaufort, the legendary route via the magnificent lake of the same name!
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The Roselend Dam is located in the commune of Beaufort-sur-Doron, in the Beaufortain region of Savoie, between the Col du Pré and the Cormet de Roselend, near the Arêches-Beaufort ski resort. The surrounding mountains reach an altitude of around 2,800 meters. It is part of the Roselend La Bâthie hydroelectric complex, which includes the Roselend Dam and two satellite dams: La Gittaz and Saint-Guérin. This complex is managed by EDF's Alpes Production Unit. The Roselend La Bâthie hydroelectric complex produces the equivalent of the domestic energy consumption of 450,000 residents, thus avoiding the emission of 890,000 tons of CO2 per year. The Roselend Dam is a double-curved arch dam with buttresses. Height = 150 meters Crest length = 804 meters Water reservoir [of the hydroelectric complex] = 187 million m3 The Roselend - La Bâthie development is supplied by the Roselend dam itself, as well as by two satellite dams, La Gittaz and Saint-Guérin. The total storage capacity of these three reservoirs, connected by a system of galleries, is 213 million m3. The water collected at Roselend crosses the massif through a 12.5 km long gallery to flow at an altitude of 1,400 m into the Isère Valley, in the Tarentaise region. It is then transported to the underground plant at La Bâthie via a 2,500 m long penstock, with a drop of 1,200 m. The power plant is equipped with six Pelton-type generating units with a total capacity of 550 MW. Since 2013, EDF has been replacing the main components of each generating unit (turbine, generator, transformer, and energy evacuation cables) to achieve a total capacity of 600 MW by the end of 2018. https://youtu.be/G0Ss9v6wxQQ
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One of the most visited sites in the Alps, on foot or by bike.
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From the lake, it's about 400 meters to the highest point. The scenery up here is simply magnificent, so the climb flies by.
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At 1,968 meters above sea level, the Cormet de Roselend is a well-known pass in the Alps, located between the two iconic massifs of Beaufortain and Mont Blanc. Its 20 kilometers at a 6.2% gradient from Beaufort make it a first-category pass. Note a flat section at the twelfth kilometer at Lake Roselend, which allows you to admire the lake before beginning the final ascent.
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A pass classified as 1st category from Beaufort, but which can be very difficult in the heat. The slope hardly drops below 9% after the junction with the Saint-Guérin road. The reward is great: a spectacular view towards the dam and the Roselend lake.
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Do not miss the lake and the dam of Roselend after the Col du Pré. Return to Beaufort and Arêches via the Col de Méraillet, whose road is more pleasant downhill.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore around Lac de Roselend?
The centerpiece is, of course, Lac de Roselend itself, known for its striking turquoise waters and surrounding majestic mountains. You can also discover other beautiful alpine lakes like Lac Saint-Guérin and Lac de la Gittaz, offering additional opportunities for scenic appreciation. The impressive Roc du Vent rock formation provides bird's-eye views of the lake.
Are there any significant historical or cultural sites near Lac de Roselend?
Yes, the area features the impressive Roselend Dam, an engineering marvel built between 1955 and 1962. You can also visit the Roselend Chapel, which was rebuilt after the dam's construction and houses photographs documenting its history.
What kind of outdoor activities are popular around Lac de Roselend?
The region is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy extensive hiking and cycling on numerous trails of varying difficulty. Fishing is also popular in Lac de Roselend, which is classified as a category 1 fishing lake, ideal for salmonids.
Are there specific hiking trails recommended for different difficulty levels?
Yes, there are many trails. For challenging mountain hikes, you can explore routes like the 'Lac d'Amour – Passage de la Mantaz loop' or 'Jusqu a la via ferrata – View of Mont Blanc loop'. For a more moderate experience, consider the 'Col du Pré – Roselend Dam loop'. You can find more details and routes in the Mountain Hikes around Lac de Roselend guide.
Can I go cycling or mountain biking in the area?
Absolutely. The Cormet de Roselend is a well-known mountain pass popular with cyclists, frequently featured in the Tour de France. The Climb to Col du Pré from Arêches also offers a challenging ride with stunning views. For gravel biking, explore routes like the 'Serpentine Route – Roselend Chapel loop' detailed in the Gravel biking around Lac de Roselend guide.
Is Lac de Roselend suitable for family visits?
Yes, the area offers family-friendly activities. The Roselend Chapel is accessible, and nearby Lac de Saint-Guérin features a spectacular 83-meter-long Himalayan footbridge, providing a relaxing and engaging walk for families. Various picnic areas around the lake, including near the Roselend Dam, are perfect for enjoying the scenery.
What are the best viewpoints to experience the scenery?
For grandiose panoramas, head to the Cormet de Roselend, offering views between the Beaufortain and Mont-Blanc massifs. The Roselend Dam also provides unique perspectives of the lake and surrounding mountains. The Roc du Vent offers bird's-eye views of the lake, and the Chalet de Roselend is a great spot for a panoramic break.
When is the best time to visit Lac de Roselend?
The best time to visit Lac de Roselend for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling is generally during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn (May to October), when the mountain passes are open and the weather is most favorable. Summer offers lush alpine pastures and full access to trails.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions around Lac de Roselend?
Visitors frequently praise the stunning views and the impressive engineering of the Roselend Dam. The scenic beauty of the lake itself and the challenging yet rewarding climbs like the Cormet de Roselend are also highly appreciated. Many enjoy the tranquility and the opportunity for photography.
Are there any easy walks around Lac de Roselend?
Yes, there are options for easier walks. The area around Lac de Saint-Guérin, with its Himalayan footbridge, offers a family-friendly and relaxing walk. You can also find various spots around the lake suitable for gentle strolls and picnics, allowing you to enjoy the incredible mountain and lake setting without strenuous effort.
What is the Route des Grandes Alpes?
The Route des Grandes Alpes is a historic and scenic route that traverses the French Alps. It passes directly through the magnificent alpine site of Lac de Roselend, connecting to the Tarentaise valley. It's a popular choice for road cyclists and scenic drives, offering breathtaking mountain landscapes.
Are there any waterfall hikes near Lac de Roselend?
Yes, the region offers beautiful waterfall hikes. You can explore routes such as the 'Poncell'amont Waterfall – Col du Pré loop from Arêches'. For more options and details, refer to the Waterfall hikes around Lac de Roselend guide.
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