Where can you swim in Chamonix?

From blue-green lakes and mountain views to majestic waterfalls and breathtaking gorges, there's something for everyone.

However, mountain lakes are fragile ecosystems... The addition of organic matter or chemicals such as sunscreen, mosquito repellent or buoys can change the way they function. As a result, many exceptional waters are off-limits to bathers. Find out more before you go.

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Here are 5 places to swim in Chamonix:

Lake Passy

Lac de Passy is open all year round, and is a 30-minute drive from Chamonix-Mont-Blanc town center.

The lake has a supervised swimming area in July and August, from 12pm to 4pm every day. There is a parking lot nearby, which becomes chargeable (€2 per day) from late June to late August.

Lac de Passy is the largest lake in the Mont-Blanc region. It offers remarkable views of the surrounding mountains, especially Mont Blanc. In addition to its supervised bathing area, the lake also offers a number of more discreet grassy coves for swimming.

The leisure center also offers a wide range of activities: small electric boats, paddle and rowing boat hire, fishing pontoon, mountain bike trail, mini-golf, accrobranche.

Picnic areas are available on site, and restaurants/bars are open in summer.

The Ilettes lakes

The Ilettes lakes are open all year round and access is free. They are a 30-minute drive from Chamonix.

In a row, the three lakes each have their own special features: fishing (closed July-August), swimming or windsurfing.

For swimming, this is the second lake, where you can relax on the green beaches. The northern part of the lake is supervised from 12pm to 6pm in July and August.

Numerous activities are available on site, including a volleyball court, ping-pong tables and a fitness trail.

On site, you can enjoy a bite to eat at the small refreshment bar, or take advantage of the picnic areas and barbecues available.

Le Pontet swimming lake

The Lac de baignade du Pontet is a 45-minute drive from Chamonix, on the valley floor. It is closed from November to March. Admission is charged for the day, at €3 for children and €4 for adults.

At the heart of the Parc de Loisirs du Pontet, the swimming lake offers exceptional panoramic views of the mountains. The 3,800 m² supervised swimming area features a sandy beach and a lawn area.

This idyllic setting also offers a wide range of activities, including kayaking, rowing, trampolining, climbing, horse riding, adventure courses, tennis and much more.

Outside swimming hours, i.e. before 10am and after 7pm, the lake is open to amateur fishermen.

Picnic areas are available and a restaurant overlooking the lake is open all year round.

Lac Bleu Morillon

Lac Bleu Morillon is a little corner of paradise just 50 minutes from Chamonix. Open all year round, this lake offers a remarkable place to relax.

Between sandy beaches and shady lawns, one part is supervised and reserved exclusively for swimming.

Many other activities are on offer at Lac Bleu de Morillon, including kayaking, paddle-boarding and fishing, as well as inflatable games, tree-climbing, horse-riding, pétanque and volleyball.

Regular events include children's shows, concerts and fishing competitions.

A picnic area and a bar-restaurant are on site for your enjoyment.

Swimming pool and spa at the Refuge des Aiglons hotel

The Refuge des Aiglons in downtown Chamonix offers a truly relaxing mountain wellness experience.

For a day of relaxation in summer or winter, or to unwind after a day of sport, the hotel's heated outdoor swimming pool with its breathtaking view of Mont Blanc and spa await you.

The Refuge des Aiglons spa features an outdoor sensory circuit (heated pool, whirlpool, sauna, steam room), all with a breathtaking view of Mont Blanc. There are also sensory showers and a relaxation room, as well as à la carte treatments tailored to individual needs (massages, facials, body treatments, etc.).

Access is unlimited and free for hotel residents. Outside guests can also enjoy the outdoor pool and spa. Spa entrance fees include a towel and bathrobe.

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