Lac des Plagnes

Lac des Plagnes is a mountain lake in the commune of Abondance, in the Haute-Savoie department of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. Sitting at roughly 1,191 metres of altitude in the Chablais massif, it is the largest lake in the entire Abondance valley, and it pairs easy car access with genuinely alpine scenery — a combination that draws both casual walkers and anglers through the summer months.

Where is Lac des Plagnes and how do you get there?

The lake sits about 5 km from the centre of Abondance village, best known for its historic abbey. A paved road leads all the way to the shore, where a car park lets visitors reach the water without a long approach on foot — though motorhomes are not allowed to stay overnight in the car park. From there it only takes a few minutes to walk down to the shoreline and start the loop around the lake.

What can you do at the lake?

The main draw is the walk around the lake itself: a short, easy loop suitable for most visitors, though not recommended for pushchairs or wheelchairs. Benches and picnic tables are set up along the way, making it easy to stop for a break by the water. Swimming and any form of water sport are forbidden, with one exception — fishing is permitted. In winter, the surrounding area is used as a cross-country skiing route.

Why is the lake part of a UNESCO Geopark?

Lac des Plagnes is one of the designated sites of the Chablais UNESCO Global Geopark. Interpretive panels along the walking path explain how this stretch of the Alps has evolved over the last 20,000 years, from retreating glaciers to the peat bogs and glacial lakes seen today. Nearby, the Cubourré site is specifically dedicated to this geological history.

When is the best time to visit?

The lake looks its most striking in late May and early June, right after the snow at higher altitude has melted. At that point the water takes on a turquoise colour, set against the still snow-capped peaks behind it, creating a strong contrast of colours. Later in summer the water level drops somewhat, but the walking loop stays open and accessible for the whole season.

What views does the lake offer?

From the shores of Lac des Plagnes, hikers get a clear view of the sunlit side of Mont de Grange, the highest point of the Abondance valley at 2,432 metres. It serves as a natural landmark for orienting yourself in the surrounding terrain.

How can you extend the walk?

Visitors looking for a longer outing can head toward the nearby Lac de Tavaneuse, another lake in this part of the Chablais massif that is often combined with Lac des Plagnes into a single loop. Another option leads to the Cubourré waterfall, with its small cascades. More determined walkers can continue toward the Refuge des Tindérêts, roughly an hour and fifteen minutes away on foot. Right at the lake, the restaurant Chez Rémy offers a place to eat after the walk.

FAQ

Can you swim in Lac des Plagnes? No. Swimming and water sports are banned; fishing is the only permitted water activity.

Is the lake easy to reach? Yes, a road leads directly to a car park by the shore, so no long approach on foot is needed.

How long does the walk around the lake take? It is a short, easy loop suitable for most visitors, though not ideal for pushchairs or wheelchairs.

Is there an entrance fee? No, access to the lake and the walking trail is free.

What is the best season to visit? Late May to early June, once the snowmelt gives the water its turquoise colour while the peaks above are still snow-capped.