Top 20 Lakes around Huez

Yes, several lakes are ideal for families. Buclet pond is very accessible from spring to summer, offering many pleasant spots for resting and picnicking. Lake Besson is also highlighted as an ideal spot for family picnics, known for its clear waters and panoramic mountain views.

Lake Besson is easily accessible, often being the first lake seen from its parking lot. Lac Faucille is a small, peaceful lake often encountered along hiking trails that connect various lakes, offering a tranquil stop. Lac Blanc also has routes of varying difficulty, including a loop perfect for a family walk or a first discovery of the area.

The Oisans region boasts 143 miles of marked hiking trails, with many lakes part of interconnected routes like 'The Lakes Trail' from Alpe d'Huez. You can find various running trails, including loops around Lake Carrelet and Lac de la Faucille, or Lake Besson. Lac Blanc, at a higher altitude, offers spectacular landscapes and several routes of varying difficulty.

Lac Noir, meaning 'Black Lake,' is characterized by its mysterious, deep, and dark-colored waters. It creates striking visuals for photographers due to the impressive reflections of the surrounding mountains, making it a captivating sight for those seeking dramatic landscapes.

Generally, swimming in the larger reservoirs like Lac du Chambon and Lac du Verney is prohibited, with exceptions like the annual Alpe d'Huez triathlon. While swimming might be tolerated in some smaller ponds like Buclet pond, it is not supervised. For Lac Lauvitel in Écrins National Park, swimming is explicitly not allowed to preserve its untouched natural beauty.

The lakes are generally best visited from spring to summer when the weather is mild, and the trails are clear of snow. This allows for pleasant hiking, picnicking, and enjoying the clear waters. Some lakes, like Buclet pond, are specifically noted as accessible during these seasons.

Yes, for some of the more popular and accessible lakes, parking is available. For instance, Lake Besson has a parking lot at its southern end, serving as a common starting point for lake hikes.

Beyond hiking, the area offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can explore numerous MTB trails, including routes around Lake Besson. Road cycling is also popular, with challenging routes like the Alpe d'Huez Climb nearby. The region is well-suited for exploring the alpine environment.

Lac Blanc is located at a higher altitude (around 2,700 meters) and offers spectacular landscapes amidst mountain peaks and a mineral plateau. It provides breathtaking views and a variety of hiking routes, including a loop suitable for families. A notable hike leads to the Col du Lac Blanc at 2,800 meters, offering historical insights into the Sarenne Glacier.

Lac Lauvitel is highly recommended as it's the largest lake in the Écrins National Park and considered one of the most beautiful sites in Oisans. It's situated at 1,530 meters, and the surrounding area is a classified 'Strict Nature Reserve.' The hike to the lake from Vénosc takes approximately 2.5 hours through forests. Remember that regulations within the national park include staying on paths, no swimming, and no picking flowers or collecting minerals.

Yes, some lakes offer options for refreshments. For example, near Lake Carrelet, the Auberge de l'Alpette, located a little higher up, offers a wonderful break and a chance to enjoy the view in complete relaxation.

While the region is primarily known for skiing in winter, some trails around the lakes might be accessible for winter walks, depending on snow conditions and altitude. However, many high-altitude lakes and trails become covered in snow, making access more challenging and requiring appropriate gear. It's best to check local conditions before planning a winter visit.