Lac Besson

Lac Besson is a small mountain lake sitting at roughly 2,070 metres on the Petites Rousses plateau, within the Grandes Rousses massif above L'Alpe d'Huez in the Isère department, France. Covering about 4.35 hectares with an average depth near 20 metres, it is the best-known of a cluster of lakes on this high plateau and a favourite easy outing for visitors staying in the resort.

Where is Lac Besson exactly?

The lake lies around 3 kilometres from the centre of the L'Alpe d'Huez ski resort (1,860 m), close to the Col de Poutran. From its shores the view opens onto the Oisans range, and on clear days the Belledonne, Taillefer and Vercors massifs are visible in the distance.

How do you get there?

Car access to the parking area right by the lake (about 2,100 m) can be restricted during the summer season, so most visitors rely on the free shuttle bus that runs from early morning until late evening, or take the chairlift/cable car that operates during the day. From the upper lift station, only a short, easy walk remains to reach the water.

What is there to do around the lake?

Lac Besson is the natural starting point for the "Tour des Lacs," a walking loop that links several lakes on the plateau: Lac Noir, Lac Faucille and Lac Carrelet. The full loop covers about 4.5 kilometres and takes roughly 1 hour 40 minutes at an easy pace, making it suitable for families and casual walkers alike. Lac Noir, about a 15-minute walk from Lac Besson, is particularly known for its mirror-like surface, which reflects the sky and surrounding peaks.

When is the best time to visit?

The network of paths around the lakes is open and easiest to walk between 1 May and 31 October, once snow has cleared from the trails and pastures. In winter the area takes on a different character, and the route around Lac Besson becomes a popular destination for snowshoe outings across a snow-covered landscape.

Can you swim in Lac Besson?

No. Swimming is not permitted in the lake. Lac Besson functions as a scenic stop and rest point along the trail rather than a swimming spot.

FAQ

How high up is Lac Besson? The lake sits at an altitude of about 2,070 metres on the Petites Rousses plateau.

How long does the walk around the lake take? The full loop connecting Lac Besson with the neighbouring Lac Noir, Lac Faucille and Lac Carrelet is about 4.5 kilometres and takes around 1 hour 40 minutes of easy walking.

How do you reach the lake without a car? A free shuttle bus runs from L'Alpe d'Huez, and a chairlift or cable car provides an alternative during the summer season.

Is swimming allowed at Lac Besson? No, swimming is prohibited across the whole lake.

What else is worth seeing nearby? Combine the visit with a walk to the neighbouring Lac Noir, Lac Faucille and Lac Carrelet, and enjoy the panoramic views over the Oisans, Belledonne, Taillefer and Vercors ranges.