Top 7 Lakes around Saint-Pierre-En-Faucigny
Best lakes around Saint-Pierre-En-Faucigny are found in the Haute-Savoie region of France, offering a diverse range of aquatic environments. The area features various lakes, from smaller alpine bodies of water to large glacial lakes. This region provides opportunities for outdoor activities and scenic exploration.
Best lakes around Saint-Pierre-En-Faucigny
- The most popular lakes is Lessy lake, a lake located at an altitude of 1,730 meters at the foot of the Aiguille Verte. It is a peaceful corner in the heart of the Aravis massif, appreciated by hikers and fishers.
- Another must-see spot is Lake Peyre, a lake that offers views of the Mont Blanc range. It is a popular spot for hikers.
- Visitors also love Lac de la Cour, a lake in the middle of mountain pastures. It provides a peaceful setting for picnics with views of the surrounding area.
- Saint-Pierre-En-Faucigny is known for alpine lakes, large glacial lakes, and local fishing reservoirs. These include high-altitude lakes like Lac Bénit and Lac de Lessy, as well as larger bodies of water such as Lac Léman and Lac d'Annecy.
- The lakes around Saint-Pierre-En-Faucigny are appreciated by the komoot community. The community has contributed over 130 upvotes and 28 photos across various lake highlights.
Last updated: July 12, 2026
Lessy lake
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Lac Bénit
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In 1988, Father Arsène Bourgeaux, ethnographer, in a publication dedicated to the parish, indicated that the lake, “for the inhabitants of the Mont is considered as a sort of founding place where the identity of a population originates” 7.
The lake was the subject of processions by the populations of Marnaz and Mont-Saxonnex, on Saint Claude's Day, in order to protect the villages from flooding.
The lake benefited from developments in the early 1960s, notably with the raising of the lake level, which made it possible to double its surface area7. The inauguration took place on July 11, 19657. A mass was improvised by priest Claude Scherantz.
Lake Bénit is the subject of many legends. One of them relates that the fairies came to bathe there and were at the origin of the production of butter and tomme in the town.
A second legend says that an episcopal ring is found in the lake9. Following a deadly avalanche, the bishop of the diocese is said to have gone “in a grand procession” to bless the lake and to have thrown “his episcopal ring into the waves asking heaven that such a catastrophe never happens again”9. Another version says that the object was so heavy that it fell into the lake at the time of the blessing9. According to this legend, an avalanche emptied the lake and flooded Marnaz below4.
Finally Alphonse Favre (en) reports that “this lake is due to a collapse in which a fir forest disappeared. As for the time, it can only be established in a very doubtful manner, by the fact that an old man from the village of Brezon assured, around 1845, that this event had happened in his father's youth. »1
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Lake Peyre
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Lac de la Cour
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Ponds on the banks of the Arve
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Tips from the Community
Lovely place to have a picnic on one of the benches. You have a beautiful view. You can also take beautiful pictures in the mirrored water.
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The lake is very beautiful and there are enough places to sit and eat. The view of the surrounding area is also beautiful. However, there are no nice hiking trails nearby as it is a ski resort
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Very popular spot in summer. If you have a little strength in your legs to spare, don't stop at the lake, go up to the Balafrasse pass which gives a breathtaking view of the first as well as the Aravis range and Mont Blanc.
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Wonderfully located in a protected valley, a wonderful hiking destination for a rest, in summer with a hut that is open all day, otherwise only on weekends or not at all.
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Lake Bénit is located at an altitude of 1,452 meters, on the northern slope (ubac) of the Bargy chain, in the Bornes1 massif. It is dominated to the south by the limestone wall of the Bargy chain from where the scree of the Col d'Encrenaz cirque spills out and delimits the south-west shore of the lake. The northwest bank corresponds to the slope of the old glacial basin while the east bank opens onto the valley of the Lac Bénit stream. In 1988, Father Arsène Bourgeaux, ethnographer, in a publication dedicated to the parish, indicated that the lake, “for the inhabitants of the Mont is considered as a sort of founding place where the identity of a population originates” 7. The lake was the subject of processions by the populations of Marnaz and Mont-Saxonnex, on Saint Claude's Day, in order to protect the villages from flooding. The lake benefited from developments in the early 1960s, notably with the raising of the lake level, which made it possible to double its surface area7. The inauguration took place on July 11, 19657. A mass was improvised by priest Claude Scherantz. Lake Bénit is the subject of many legends. One of them relates that the fairies came to bathe there and were at the origin of the production of butter and tomme in the town. A second legend says that an episcopal ring is found in the lake9. Following a deadly avalanche, the bishop of the diocese is said to have gone “in a grand procession” to bless the lake and to have thrown “his episcopal ring into the waves asking heaven that such a catastrophe never happens again”9. Another version says that the object was so heavy that it fell into the lake at the time of the blessing9. According to this legend, an avalanche emptied the lake and flooded Marnaz below4. Finally Alphonse Favre (en) reports that “this lake is due to a collapse in which a fir forest disappeared. As for the time, it can only be established in a very doubtful manner, by the fact that an old man from the village of Brezon assured, around 1845, that this event had happened in his father's youth. »1
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Avoid July, August and especially do not bring your pets, wildlife is to be protected.
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lake in the middle of the mountain pastures, very peaceful place
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of lakes can I find near Saint-Pierre-En-Faucigny?
The region around Saint-Pierre-En-Faucigny offers a diverse range of lakes, from large glacial lakes like Lac Léman and Lac d'Annecy to smaller, serene alpine lakes such as Lessy lake and Lac Bénit. There are also local fishing reservoirs and accessible swimming spots like Bonneville Motte Longue.
Which lakes are best for hiking and scenic views?
For hiking and stunning views, consider Lessy lake, located at 1,730 meters in the Aravis massif, which is highly appreciated by hikers. Lac Bénit, at 1,452 meters, offers dramatic views of the Bargy mountain range and is popular for family hikes. Lake Peyre also provides breathtaking views of the Mont Blanc range. For more hiking options, you can explore routes in the area via the Hiking around Saint-Pierre-En-Faucigny guide.
Are there family-friendly lakes with activities for children?
Yes, several lakes are great for families. Lac d'Aiguebelette is known for its warm, emerald-green waters and has seven equipped beaches, some with inflatable structures and water games. Bonneville Motte Longue is a convenient local swimming spot. Lac de la Cour is a peaceful spot for picnics in mountain pastures, and the Ponds on the banks of the Arve offer well-developed cycle paths suitable for families.
What water sports can I do at the lakes near Saint-Pierre-En-Faucigny?
The larger lakes offer a wide array of water sports. Lac Léman provides opportunities for swimming, boating, pedal boating, canoeing, kayaking, windsurfing, and water skiing. Lac d'Annecy is excellent for stand-up paddleboarding, sailing, snorkeling, scuba diving, freediving, canoeing, and kayaking. Lac du Bourget is ideal for paddleboarding, kayaking, wakeboarding, waterskiing, sailing, and diving. Lac d'Aiguebelette, with its warm waters, is perfect for non-motorized activities like paddleboarding, canoeing, and pedal boating.
Which lakes are suitable for swimming?
Many lakes in the region are excellent for swimming. Lac d'Annecy is renowned for its exceptionally clear and pristine waters. Lac du Bourget's water can reach 26°C in summer, making it very pleasant. Lac d'Aiguebelette is also known for its warm, often turquoise waters, reaching up to 26°C. Bonneville Motte Longue is a readily accessible local swimming spot with generally good water quality.
Can I go cycling around the lakes?
Absolutely. Lac d'Annecy is circled by a 40-kilometer cycling path. Lac du Bourget also has cycling trails along its shoreline, including sections of the ViaRhôna. The area around Saint-Pierre-En-Faucigny offers various cycling routes, which you can find in the Cycling around Saint-Pierre-En-Faucigny guide and the Road Cycling Routes around Saint-Pierre-En-Faucigny guide.
What is the best time to visit the lakes in Haute-Savoie for outdoor activities?
The summer months are generally ideal for visiting the lakes, as water temperatures are warm enough for swimming and water sports. The weather is also favorable for hiking and cycling. For high-altitude lakes like Lake Peyre, it's advised to avoid July and August due to potential crowds and to protect wildlife.
Are there any dog-friendly options for visiting the lakes?
While specific dog-friendly policies vary by lake and beach, many natural areas and hiking trails around the lakes are suitable for dogs on a leash. However, some sensitive natural reserves or specific beaches may have restrictions. Always check local signage. For Lake Peyre, it is recommended not to bring pets to protect wildlife.
What are some less crowded or hidden lakes to explore?
For a more tranquil experience, the high-altitude lakes like Lessy lake and Lac Bénit offer serene settings, often requiring a hike to reach, which naturally reduces crowds. Lac de la Cour is also described as a very peaceful place in the middle of mountain pastures.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Saint-Pierre-En-Faucigny?
Visitors frequently praise the stunning natural beauty, the peaceful atmosphere, and the diverse range of activities available. Highlights like Lessy lake are loved for being a 'superb alpine lake' and a 'peaceful corner'. Lac de la Cour is appreciated for its 'very peaceful place' and 'beautiful view'. The clear waters of Lac d'Annecy and the warm waters of Lac d'Aiguebelette are also highly valued.
Are there any cultural or historical sites near the lakes?
Yes, Lac Léman is bordered by towns like Évian-les-Bains and features UNESCO World Cultural Heritage vineyards at Lavaux. Near Lac du Bourget, you can take boat trips to visit the historic Hautecombe Abbey. Lac Bénit is also steeped in local legends and history, with tales of episcopal rings and ancient processions.
How accessible are the lakes by public transport from Saint-Pierre-En-Faucigny?
While Saint-Pierre-En-Faucigny has a train station, direct public transport links to all the smaller, more remote alpine lakes can be limited. Larger lakes like Lac d'Annecy and Lac Léman are generally more accessible by regional buses or trains to nearby towns. For specific routes and schedules, it's best to check local transport services. Parking is often available near the more popular lakes and trailheads.
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