Top 20 Lakes around Bourg-Saint-Maurice
Best lakes around Bourg-Saint-Maurice, a town in the Tarentaise Valley, provide access to diverse alpine lakes in the French Alps. This region is characterized by its mountainous landscape and glacial formations. The lakes offer a range of natural features, from high-altitude glacial lakes to larger reservoirs. Visitors can explore various aquatic environments within a short distance of the town.
Best lakes around Bourg-Saint-Maurice
- The most popular lakes is Lac du Verney, a lake located at approximately 2000 meters above sea level. This natural lake, created by ancient glaciers, is one of the largest natural alpine lakes in the Aosta Valley.
- Another must-see spot is Lac Combal, a lake situated amidst a panorama of mountains and glaciers. It is a suitable location for taking a break during a hike.
- Visitors also love Lago Checrouit, a small lake by a trail. On clear days, glaciers are reflected in its waters, offering a scenic view.
- Bourg-Saint-Maurice is known for natural alpine lakes, glacial lakes, and reservoirs. The area features a variety of lakes to see and explore, each with distinct characteristics.
- The lakes around Bourg-Saint-Maurice are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 260 upvotes and over 100 photos contributed by visitors.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
Lac Combal
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Lago Checrouit
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Lac du Miage
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Enclosed by two arms of the glacier is the Jardin de Miage, a small "paradise" where nature can unfold almost undisturbed.
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Lac du Verney
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Presset Refuge
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Tips from the Community
Steep and rugged climb. On the way back, follow the ski slope to the left. The descent is steep, but on soft, level terrain.
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Excellent welcome, with meal, coffee and dessert. Magnificent view of the peaks to the south: Pierra Menta, Roc de la Charbonnière, Pointe de Cerdosse, Mont Rosset.
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Until about ten years ago the lake was much bigger and really beautiful, last year I saw it again and it left me a little disappointed. However, if you have never been there I recommend a visit!
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Lake Verney is the largest natural alpine lake in the Aosta Valley. Of glacial origin, it is located at 2,088 m above sea level, between the Bec des Rousses, the promontory of the Piccolo San Bernardo, and Mount Chaz Dura. The shores of the lake are colonized by hygrophilous vegetation that includes prized botanical varieties such as eriophilous grasses, sedges and rushes as well as sphagnum, a typical species of peat bogs. On the sides, the work of nature has left morainic deposits rich in springs, a perfect habitat for primroses and saxifrages. In a distant time, over 2,000 years ago, the Salassi people considered these waters sacred: they were used to bless the fields, unions and children, to propitiate a fruitful summer or a benevolent winter. When the Salassi leaders returned victorious from a battle, they offered the swords of their fallen adversaries to Graio, the god of war and rocks, as a sign of thanks. Today, Lake Verney is a favorite destination for many tourists as well as a fishing reserve. You can walk around its entire perimeter with a comfortable walk of about 45 minutes and by climbing further you can reach the Upper Lake Verney in about half an hour.
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This is a lovely little lake, in the heart of a breathtaking panorama of mountains and glaciers. An incredible place. The powerful lateral moraine of the Miage glacier obstructs the outflow from Val Veny, so a large marshy area has formed, partly rich in vegetation and with small water surfaces. Running on this path shared by the Tour of Mont Blanc and the Alta Via 2 of the Aosta Valley is extraordinary: not very technical, not excessively steep and with stunning views.
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Lake Chécrouit is a small mountain lake located in the Val Veny at an altitude of 2,165 meters. On clear days, the majestic glaciers clinging to the rock spiers are reflected in this small body of water. A truly extraordinary show!
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Lac Chécrouit and Lac des Vesses On the route of the Tour du Mont Bianc, a section in Italy, one encounters the alpine lakes Lac Chécrouit and Lac des Vesses. Located in the Val Veny, these two lakes offer a breathtaking view of the southern slope of the Mont Blanc massif and its numerous glaciers. In winter, the lakes are frozen and covered in snow, in summer they are filled with tadpoles and large frogs. Definitely a perfect spot of refreshment for hikers attempting the TMB before descending towards Courmayeur.
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It's worth making a detour to see this gorgeously colored pond
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes around Bourg-Saint-Maurice are best for a scenic walk or easy hike?
For a comfortable walk with breathtaking mountain and glacier panoramas, consider a 45-minute stroll around Lac du Verney. This natural alpine lake is of glacial origin and is the largest in the Aosta Valley. Another option is the popular "Tour de Roselend" around Lac de Roselend, which offers magnificent views and takes approximately four hours.
Are there any family-friendly lakes or activities near Bourg-Saint-Maurice?
Yes, Lac Combal is categorized as family-friendly and offers a beautiful spot for a break amidst stunning scenery. Lac de Tignes is also excellent for families, offering a wide array of watersports like paddleboarding, pedalos, and kayaking, plus an inflatable aquatic playground called Acroland during summer. The nearby Sports Beach hosts activities like beach football and volleyball.
What unique natural features can I expect to see at the lakes?
The lakes offer diverse natural beauty. At Lago Checrouit, you can witness imposing glaciers reflecting in its waters on clear days. Lac du Miage is a glacier lake right on the edge of the Glacier de Miage, with water levels varying by season. Lac de Roselend is known for its captivating turquoise waters against a backdrop of majestic peaks and alpine meadows where local 'tarines' cows graze.
Are there any lakes with historical significance or unique stories?
Lac du Chevril, also known as Tignes Dam Lake, holds a fascinating history. It was created in 1952, submerging the original village of Tignes. Every ten years, when the lake is drained for dam inspection, visitors can glimpse the historical charm of this lost village, including the old church. The dam itself is adorned with a statue and a gigantic wall fresco.
What kind of outdoor activities are available around the lakes?
The region offers a wide range of outdoor activities. Near the lakes, you can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, paragliding, and horse riding, especially around Lac de Roselend. Lac de Tignes is a hub for watersports like paddleboarding and kayaking in summer, and ice skating or ice diving in winter. For more structured routes, explore the running trails, cycling routes, or gravel biking paths around Bourg-Saint-Maurice.
Can I find accommodation or places to rest near the lakes?
Yes, the Presset Refuge is nestled in a spectacular setting on the edge of Lac de Presset. It offers accommodation, meals, and a beautiful panoramic terrace, making it a great place to take a break or spend the night.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Bourg-Saint-Maurice?
The summer months are ideal for visiting, offering pleasant weather for hiking, watersports, and enjoying the vibrant alpine meadows. However, some lakes like Lac de Tignes also offer unique activities in winter, such as ice skating and ice diving, when the lake freezes over.
Are there any specific hiking routes that connect multiple lakes?
Yes, the Les Cinq Lacs (The Five Lakes) area offers a popular hiking route that encompasses five distinct lakes: Lac Esola, Lac Rionde, Lac Comu, Lac Verdet, and Lac Noi. This series of lakes is perfect for hikers seeking a rewarding day trip with spectacular natural beauty and panoramic vistas, with Lac Noi being the highest at 2532m.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes in this region?
Visitors frequently highlight the breathtaking panoramas of mountains and glaciers, the serene atmosphere, and the diverse range of activities. Many appreciate the opportunity to rest and picnic by the water, and the unique reflections of glaciers in lakes like Lago Checrouit are often mentioned as a scenic highlight.
Are there opportunities for wild swimming in the lakes?
While the waters of high-altitude glacial lakes like Lac du Verney are often very cold, making swimming suitable only for the bravest, Lac du Chevril offers clear waters that can be inviting for swimming and diving on sunny summer days. Always exercise caution and check local regulations before swimming in natural bodies of water.
What kind of wildlife can be observed around the lakes?
The alpine environment around these lakes supports diverse wildlife. The shores of Lac du Verney, for instance, are home to hygrophilous vegetation, including prized botanical varieties and sphagnum, which create a perfect habitat for primroses and saxifrages. You might also spot local 'tarines' cows grazing in the alpine meadows around Lac de Roselend.
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