Chamonix is an area that is best known for its skiing. However, there are also numerous Alpine lakes to visit in the area. The Chamonix valley is found in the north-western part of the Alps, only 15 km from both the Swiss border and the Italian border.
A popular holiday destination year round, Thibaut de Roux has visited the area every winter and summer for more than two decades. Its mountain climate guarantees a generally pleasant summer season that sees temperatures regularly reaching 30 degrees Celsius, while winter is cold with snowfall.
The Chamonix area includes the world-renowned Mont Blanc – Western Europe’s tallest peak which tops out at 4,810 meters high – as well as Servoz, Les Houches, Argentiere and Vallorcine. Chamonix is particularly appreciated by skiers, hikers, mountaineers and hill walkers, though the area also caters to those who are looking for more peaceful or leisurely activities.
The area’s Alpine lakes are relatively easy to access and do not require a particularly long or arduous journey. Many of the lakes are at altitudes between 2,000 and 2,500 metres above sea level, making them a great choice for those who enjoy hill walking and mountaineering, even at an amateur level. The stunning views, pure water and amazing mountains that are reflected in the lakes makes visiting them well worthwhile, even for inexperienced walkers.
Amongst the lakes found in Chamonix are Lac Bleu, Lac Blanc, Lac Cornu, Lac du Brevent, Lac des Gaillands, Lac Vert, Lacs Noirs, Lacs des Cheserys, Chavants Lake, and the lake and mountains of Pormenaz.
Lac Blanc is only accessible by foot, with it taking around three hours to hike there from either Col des Montets or the village of Argentiere. Facing the Mont Blanc massif, a visit to Lac Blanc offers a truly unique and stunning panorama, and it is known as one of the most betiful spots in the Alps.
The biggest lake near Chamonix is the Lac de Passy, which also happens to be accessible by car. Lac de Passy has plenty to offer, including windsurfing and swimming, as well as barbecue and picnic facilities, which make it a great choice for a family day out by the water.