The main thing to remember
- An emerald lake 1,266 m away : nestled in the Aiguilles Rouges nature reserve, in the heart of a spruce forest.
- Easy access from Plaine-Joux : 20 to 30 minutes of walking, flat trail, accessible to strollers and young children.
- Sporty hike option from Servoz : 1h30 to 2 hours of ascent, 500 m of altitude difference, much quieter itinerary.
- To see on site : the reflection of Mont-Blanc in the early morning, the local fauna and the tour of the lake in 15 minutes.
- Open from May to November : swimming prohibited to preserve the ecosystem, snowshoeing possible in winter.
Why is Lac Vert so special?
Let's start with what's obvious: its color. Lac Vert lives up to its name perfectly! Its waters feature a deep emerald hue absolutely fascinating, which varies according to the light and the seasons. This intense green is due to the presence of microscopic algae that line the bottom of the lake and give it that particular brilliance. When the sun shines through the trees and lights up the surface, the spectacle is simply magical.
But beyond its color, it is the whole setting that makes the charm of the place. The lake is surrounded by a dense forest of spruces and firs that are reflected in the water as in a mirror. The Mont-Blanc (when he deigns to show himself between the treetops) completes the picture with a majestic touch. It's the kind of place that naturally invites you to slow down, sit on a rock, and just contemplate.
Lac Vert is part of the Aiguilles Rouges Nature Reserve, which means that the fauna and flora are protected there. You are here in a preserved ecosystem and you can feel it: the calm is almost palpable, especially at the beginning of the morning or at the end of the day.
How do I get to Lac Vert?
From Plaine-Joux
The easiest and most popular access starts from the plateau of Plaine-Joux, located on the heights of the town of Passy. From Chamonix, it is approximately a 30-minute drive. Free parking is available at the start of the trail, but as is often the case in summer, it is best to arrive early to be sure of a space.
From the parking lot, the trail to Lac Vert is a really easy walk. Count approximately 20 to 30 minute walk on a wide and well-marked forest path. The altitude difference is almost non-existent: this is what makes this walk accessible to all-terrain strollers, young children and people with reduced mobility with an accompanying person. It is one of the few mountain lakes also easy to access in the region, and that is precisely what makes it a must!
From the village of Servoz
For those who prefer a slightly more sporty approach, it is possible to reach Lac Vert from Village of Servoz. This trail is longer (count 1h30 to 2 hours of ascent) and has an altitude difference of about 500 meters. The advantage? You cross varied landscapes (forests, mountain pastures, viewpoints over the valley) and you arrive at the lake with the satisfaction of having really hiked. It is also a much less busy route, ideal if you are looking for tranquillity.
What to see and do on the trail
The nature discovery trail
The path from Plaine-Joux is marked by interpretive panels that tell you about the fauna, flora and geology of the area. This is a real plus if you are with a family: children love to identify animal footprints or recognize tree species. In particular, you will learn why this forest is so dense and how it changes over the seasons.
Local wildlife
Keep your eyes open! The Lac Vert sector is home to a Discreet wildlife but very present. Les squirrels are the stars of the trail: you will most likely come across some. With a bit of patience and silence, you might also spot black woodpeckers, chickadees, and even, if you're lucky, a Deer on the edge of the forest. In summer, the dragonflies twirl above the surface of the lake, adding a touch of life to the landscape.
The reflection of Mont-Blanc
The highlight of the show is undoubtedly the Reflection of Mont-Blanc in the waters of the lake. When the conditions are right (calm weather, clear sky, morning light), the The highest peak in Western Europe is visible on the surface of green water. It's the photo shot that everyone wants to take home (and we understand why!). To maximize your chances, Come early in the morning before the wind wrinkles the surface.
The tour of the lake
Once there, take the time to do the Full tour of the lake. The trail that goes around is short (about 15 minutes) but with different perspectives at each turn. Some views are more unobstructed than others, and you will find perfect corners for a Picnic at the water's edge. Be careful though: swimming is forbidden in the lake to preserve the ecosystem. If you are looking for where Swim in Chamonix, we have prepared a dedicated guide for you!
When to visit Lac Vert?
Lac Vert is accessible From May to November approximately (depending on snow conditions). The best period is still summer, June to September, when the colors are the brightest and access is guaranteed. In autumn, the golden hues of the larches around the lake create a striking contrast with the green of the water: it is probably the most photogenic time of the year.
In winter, the area is covered with snow and the lake can partially freeze. It is then an opportunity to discover the place during snowshoe hikes in Chamonix, for a radically different but just as enchanting atmosphere.
Other lakes to discover in the valley
If Lake Vert has won you over, know that the Chamonix Valley is full of other beautiful mountain lakes. The Lac Bleu, plus Confidential and nestled in a wild setting, offers turquoise reflections that are worth the detour. For hikers looking for a slightly more challenging challenge, the Lac Blanc is a must: perched at 2,352 meters, it reveals one of the most beautiful panoramas of the Mont-Blanc Massif. Each lake has its own personality and atmosphere, and combining them over several days is a great way to discover the diversity of the region.
The Lac Vert loop via Pormenaz and Le Dérochoir: to go further
If Lac Vert has got you started and you want to extend the adventure, know that it is part of several more ambitious hiking loops starting from Plaine-Joux. The most iconic? La Lac Vert - Pormenaz — Dérochoir loop, a circuit of about 12 km that allows you to discover the best of this sector of Passy in one day.
From the lake, the trail climbs gradually towards the Refuge de Pormenaz, perched at an altitude of 1,950 meters facing a breathtaking view of the Mont-Blanc range. It is the perfect place for a lunch break : the refuge offers simple and warm meals, in the typical atmosphere of a high mountain chalet. Just above, the Lac de Pormenaz And the Lac d'Anterne reward walkers with their crystal clear waters nestled in the heart of the Fiz Nature Reserve.
The return by the Pointe du Dérochoir offers a spectacular panorama over the Arve Valley, Servoz and the villages of Haute-Savoie below. This loop is a perfect activity for a full day with family (with kids who are good walkers) or as a group of friends. Count 5 to 6 hours of tour in total.
Before leaving, remember to go through thetourist office from Passy or Chamonix to get a map of the sector and up-to-date information on the state of the trails depending on the season. The tourist reception site also offers a detailed map and a reservation service for refuges (practical in July when places are rare!).
Relax after the ride
After your Escape to Lac Vert, treat yourself to a moment of recovery in a Chamonix spa. Whether for a hot bath, a massage or simply a moment of calm, it is the perfect complement to a day surrounded by nature. And if you are looking for an ideal base for combining hiking and relaxation during your stay, a Chamonix spa hotel will allow you to enjoy all that the valley has to offer, with comfort as a bonus. What to transform a simple hike in a real rejuvenating stay!
