Lac Retaud

Lac Retaud is a small alpine lake in the municipality of Ormont-Dessus, in the Vaud Alps of western Switzerland. It sits at roughly 1,685 m above sea level, high above Les Diablerets and close to the Col du Pillon pass. The water covers about 1.5 hectares, and the La Palette massif (2,171 m) rises on the far side. In summer it draws walkers and swimmers; in winter it is a favourite snowshoe objective.

Where is Lac Retaud?

The lake lies in canton Vaud, in the upper Ormonts valley, in the Alpes vaudoises region. The easiest landmark is the Col du Pillon, the pass linking Vaud with canton Bern, where marked paths start towards the water.

How do you get to Lac Retaud?

By car. In summer a narrow mountain road near the Col du Pillon leads to a car park right beside the lake.

By public transport. Buses serve the Col du Pillon. In July and August the Diablobus shuttle runs from Les Diablerets to the lake, eight trips a day.

On foot. Walking from the Col du Pillon takes anywhere from about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the route and conditions. From Les Diablerets village, via the Dar waterfall and the pass, expect around two and a half hours. Longer loops begin at the pass: the circuit through Lac Retaud and a second lake covers about 12 km in nearly 4.5 hours, and the tour around La Palette is roughly 14 km with over 700 m of climbing. Both are rated demanding.

What can you do at the lake in summer?

• Swim. The lake is a popular summer swimming spot.
• Fish. Fishing is allowed on dates the canton sets each year, and never on Fridays.
• Eat. A restaurant stands on the shore, a handy stop on a loop hike.
• Hike. A trail between the Pillon and Isenau passes the lake.

What about winter?

In winter the area turns into snow-walking terrain. A marked snowshoe and winter-hiking route climbs to the lake from the Col du Pillon. The Rard trail is another option: it passes the Chalet du Rard, crosses forest and snowy meadows, and takes about 3 hours for the round trip.

When should you go?

July and August are best for swimming and hiking, when the Diablobus runs and the restaurant is open. For quiet and snow, choose winter. Check restaurant hours and winter trail conditions on the regional tourism sites before you set out.

Frequently asked questions

Can you drive to Lac Retaud?

Yes, in summer. A car park sits next to the lake, reached by a mountain road near the Col du Pillon.

Is swimming allowed?

Yes, the lake is popular for summer swimming, though the alpine water is cold.

Can you fish there?

Yes, on dates set each year by canton Vaud. Fishing is not permitted on Fridays.

How long is the walk from the Col du Pillon?

Sources give between about 30 minutes and one hour on the marked path, which doubles as a snowshoe route in winter.

Is there food nearby?

Yes, a restaurant operates on the lakeshore.