Top 6 Lakes around Goncelin

For swimming and relaxation, View of the Flumet basin is a great option, easily accessible from Allevard with a flat, shaded path. Additionally, the nearby Lac de la Terrasse, located very close to Goncelin, features a developed beach area ideal for families, and Lac de Paladru is renowned for its clear, azure waters perfect for swimming.

Yes, several lakes are family-friendly. The View of the Flumet basin offers a flat, shaded path perfect for short bike rides or relaxing strolls with children. Lac de la Terrasse, very close to Goncelin, also has a developed beach area, making it ideal for family outings.

The area around Refuge des 7 Laux, which includes Lac Carré, Lac de Cottepens and Lac de la Motte, provides a superb massif with mountain lakes and a very mineral landscape, offering exceptional settings for hiking. Lac de Monteynard-Avignonet also features stunning scenery and trails for hiking and cycling. For a peaceful retreat, Lac de Laffrey offers serene shores perfect for leisurely strolls or more challenging hikes.

Beyond hiking and swimming, the lakes offer diverse activities. Lac de Monteynard-Avignonet is particularly famous for wind sports like windsurfing. You can also find various cycling routes in the region, such as the 'Lac du Curtillard loop from Goncelin' or 'Lake Saint-André – Vignes de Myans loop from Goncelin', which are part of the broader Cycling around Goncelin guide. For mountain biking, explore trails like 'Bresson Singletrack loop from Le Touvet' from the MTB Trails around Goncelin guide.

Yes, the Refuge des 7 Laux is a superb hut nestled at an altitude of 2,135 meters, offering food made from local ingredients and an exceptional setting. It's imperative to book your night before arriving. Another option is the Léat refuge and lake, a peaceful place with a small unguarded chalet, ten beds, and nice bivouac spots around.

The complex of Lac Carré, Lac de Cottepens and Lac de la Motte is known for its absolutely amazing, very mineral universe and a particular, almost cold light. Lake Curtillard is a pretty lake nestled at the foot of the Belledonne peaks, fed by the Bréda torrent and held back by a dam, showcasing a unique natural formation.

The Refuge des 7 Laux, located at the crossroads of several lakes, offers food made from local ingredients. For other lakes, it's advisable to check local amenities or bring your own provisions, especially for more remote spots.

The lakes are generally most enjoyable during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn, when conditions are ideal for swimming, hiking, and other outdoor activities. During this period, the weather is pleasant, and the mountain scenery is at its most vibrant. Some high-altitude lakes might still be accessible for winter hikes, but conditions can be challenging.

Lac de Paladru, known for its azure waters, is situated in a region where visitors can explore timeless trails and discover ancient castles and churches in the surrounding area, offering a serene escape with historical charm.

Visitors frequently praise the exceptional settings and stunning natural beauty. The area around Refuge des 7 Laux is described as a 'superb massif' with 'really beautiful' lakes and a 'fresh breeze'. The complex of Lac Carré, Lac de Cottepens and Lac de la Motte is considered 'absolutely amazing' and a 'magical and exceptional site'. The peacefulness and magnificent views, such as those of the Bauges and Chartreuse from Léat refuge and lake, are also highly appreciated.

Yes, Lac de Monteynard-Avignonet is particularly renowned as one of Europe's best spots for wind sports, especially windsurfing, due to its favorable breezes. It's nestled between the majestic Dévoluy and Vercors mountains, offering a dramatic backdrop for adventure seekers.