Focus on Lac des Plagnes in Haute-Savoie
Lac des Plagnes is located in Haute-Savoie, in the famous and beautiful Vallée d'Abondance. It's an unspoilt spot in the French Chablais region, ideal for cooling off in summer or discovering the Geopark geosite and interpretation trail.
This is an artificial lake, located on the site of a former glacial lake, now filled in and levelled. In 1978, it was converted into a leisure lake, mainly for fishing. Lac des Plagnes is a mountain lake at an altitude of 1,181 meters, located southwest of Mont de Grange. Transparent water, reflections of trees, blue skies: it's a must-see during your stay in Evian - Vallée d'Abondance.
As you stroll around the lake, admire the exceptional geological value of the landscape and its preservation. This emblematic spot in Haute-Savoie is the perfect place to discover the diversity of local riches and the geological history of this exceptional territory.
The Lac des Plagnes interpretation trail
An interpretive trail takes you around Lac de Plagnes, through green, snowy and mountainous landscapes. The lakeside is full of surprises, with nature's presence dating back over 20,000 years. Walk upstream and discover the origin of a boulder at the lake's edge.
Take a leisurely stroll past this mountain lake, then climb up to a waterfall beneath the woods. Ideal for a cool picnic in summer! Continue your walk to reach the quiet plateau of Cubourré, itself bathed in light. The adjacent stream is overlooked by La Pointe d'Entre Deux Pertuis and Chavache. The return trail takes you directly to the parking lot.
Lac des Plagnes is so famous for its relaxation. It's an excellent way to spend a weekend with your partner or family, while promotingecotourism. Indeed, the UNESCO Chablais Geopark raises awareness among tourists and locals alike of the local geological heritage and the impact of human activities. This sustainable tourism helps to raise awareness and understanding of the challenges of climate change (natural hazards, use of natural resources, sustainable development, etc.).
Walks and hikes accessible to all
Portes du soleil, Chapelle d'Abondance : take advantage of your stay in the Abondance valley to visit the region's jewels. Lac des Plagnes is the valley's largest lake. It's perfectly accessible by car: just 5 km from Abondance town center. You can take a short walk to refresh yourself in the mountainous surroundings, or go for a long hike.
Picnic tables and benches are available around Lac de Plagnes for you to enjoy at your own pace. The lake is at its highest in May and June (when the ice melts). This is the ideal time to discover the lake, as the turquoise waters meet the snow-covered peaks. With the Cascade de Cubourré and other beautiful waterfalls, you'll have plenty of memories in an idyllic setting.
From Lac de Plagnes, you can also see the sunny side of Mont de Grange, the highest point in the Abondance valley at 2,432 meters. All hikes are easy and accessible to the whole family, including children aged 4 and over.
Wear good shoes and keep an eye on the weather for safe walking! In autumn, spring or winter, the path may be a little slippery. The dike is accessible to most people, while the fishermen's path is more difficult to access (it is not equipped for walkers).
