Lac de Morgins

Lac de Morgins is a small mountain lake at Morgins in the Swiss canton of Valais, sitting at roughly 1,366 m next to the Pas de Morgins, the pass over to France. Spruce forest and cattle pastures surround the water, and the Dents du Midi peaks rise in the view from the shore. It is a quiet stop in the middle of the Portes du Soleil region.

Where is Lac de Morgins?

The lake lies by the village of Morgins, in a valley at the western edge of Valais. The French border is very close, since the Pas de Morgins links this Swiss valley with the French side. Morgins is part of the Portes du Soleil ski area, and in summer the Tour des Portes du Soleil hiking route passes through the area. From the village centre, the shore is a short walk away.

What will you see at the lake?

This is not a resort-style spot but a calm alpine pond. Dark conifers and open meadows frame the surface, and on a clear day the limestone ridge of the Dents du Midi stands out on the skyline, which makes it the best backdrop for photos.

The site has been protected since 1978. Valais.ch lists it as a nationally important amphibian breeding site. In practice, stay on the paths, keep noise down and avoid disturbing wildlife near the water.

Which routes start at the lake?

• Themed walk to Lac de Vonnes. A trail connects the Morgins lake with Lac de Vonnes in Châtel, France, marked by about a dozen signs shaped like water drops.
• Three-lake loop. One published route covers 15.4 km from Morgins past Lac de Morgins, Lac de la Mouille and Lac de Conche. It is long and the climb toward the border is steep, but the views repay the effort. You can cut it short.
• E-bike. The Morgins–Châtel e-bike circuit goes past both lakes, so it works as a full day out across the border.
• Short stroll. With an hour to spare, walk just the lakeside and return to the village.

When should you go?

Summer is the best season for walking, when trails are free of snow and the pastures are green. In winter Morgins revolves around skiing in the Portes du Soleil, and the lake is part of the scenery rather than the main reason to visit. In spring and early summer, watch for amphibians near the shore.

How do you plan the visit?

Reach the lake on foot from Morgins village or as part of a longer Portes du Soleil hike. Bring sturdy shoes, layers for changeable mountain weather and water. If you head into France, carry ID, because the trails cross the border.

Frequently asked questions

What is the altitude of Lac de Morgins? About 1,366 m, beside the Pas de Morgins.

Is the lake protected? Yes. It has had protected status since 1978, and valais.ch describes it as a site of national importance for amphibian breeding.

Where does the themed trail lead? To Lac de Vonnes in Châtel. About twelve drop-shaped signs line the way.

What can I see from the shore? Spruce forest, pastures and the Dents du Midi summits.

Is there a longer loop? Yes, 15.4 km via Lac de Morgins, Lac de la Mouille and Lac de Conche, which you can shorten.