Lac de Vonnes

Lac de Vonnes is a small lake in the commune of Châtel, in the Haute-Savoie department, within the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of France. It sits in the Chablais massif, inside the well-known Franco-Swiss Portes du Soleil area, just outside the centre of the village of Châtel. The lake works as both a recreation spot and a quiet viewpoint set among alpine slopes and forest.

Where exactly is the lake located?

Lac de Vonnes lies at an altitude of around 1,250 metres, just off the road leading out of Châtel toward the higher parts of the valley. The lake covers roughly 2 hectares and reaches a depth of about 10 metres. It isn't a fully natural lake — it was formed as a water body on what used to be marshy ground, which explains its regular outline and managed shoreline. A footpath runs all the way around the water, letting visitors circle the whole lake on foot in a matter of minutes.

What can you do at Lac de Vonnes?

In summer, the lake serves as a local recreation area for both Châtel residents and visitors to Portes du Soleil. Pedal boats and stand-up paddle boards can be rented right at the water's edge, and there's a children's playground and a picnic area nearby. One of the lake's defining features is a fountain jet that shoots water up to around 40 metres — visible from a distance and especially striking in the evening when it's lit up.

Fishing at the lake

Lac de Vonnes is also a well-known fishing spot. It's stocked with rainbow trout, brown trout (fario), char and minnow, with fish ranging from roughly 20 to 80 centimetres. The fishing season generally runs from early May to late September, with access limited to morning hours. Anglers bring their own tackle, barbless techniques are required, and equipment can also be rented on site. Trout and tench under 25 centimetres must be released back into the water.

How do you get there, and is it accessible?

The lake has its own car park, including spaces reserved for visitors with disabilities. The site is wheelchair accessible, both for self-propelled chairs and with assistance. Local shuttle buses serve the area in both winter and summer — on different routes depending on the season — making it easy to reach without a car from central Châtel. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash.

Why is it worth a visit?

Lac de Vonnes isn't built for crowds; it's a calm spot woven into everyday life in Châtel, one of the main villages of Portes du Soleil, an area primarily known for its extensive ski and mountain-biking network. In summer, the lake offers a natural resting point after hikes through the surrounding Chablais trails, and its still water framed by mountains draws both families with children and anglers looking for quiet.

FAQ

Can you swim in Lac de Vonnes? The lake is mainly set up for recreation — pedal boats, paddle boarding and walking around the shore — so it's worth checking on-site rules before swimming.

Is fishing available year-round? No, the season effectively runs from spring to early autumn, and fishing is limited to set morning hours.

Can you reach the lake without a car? Yes, local shuttle buses run from Châtel during the season, and there's also a car park right at the lake.

Is the lake suitable for children? Yes, there's a playground and a picnic area by the water, and the path circling the lake makes for an easy family walk.