Lac Vert

Lac Vert is a small mountain lake sitting at roughly 1,830 metres above sea level in the commune of Névache, in the Hautes-Alpes department of France. It lies in the Vallée Étroite, a side valley branching off the Clarée valley right next to the Italian border — a strip of land that actually belonged to Italy until the 1947 peace treaty transferred it to Névache. The lake is known for its strikingly bright green water, a colour produced by algae that grow in the shallow basin. Combined with the surrounding forest and peaks, that colour has made the short walk to Lac Vert one of the more popular outings in the Clarée valley.

How do you get to Lac Vert?

The walk starts at the hamlet of Granges de la Vallée Étroite, reached by road from Névache toward the Col de l'Échelle. The trail is signposted and rated easy: depending on which version of the route is followed, the one-way walk takes anywhere from around 45 minutes to a little over an hour, with total elevation gain ranging from roughly 100 to under 200 metres. The path runs partly through forest, crosses a wooden footbridge over the stream running through the Vallée Étroite, and opens onto a view of the lake on the final stretch.

What should visitors know before going?

Because the distance and elevation gain are modest, the walk is a common choice for families, and many visitors bring food for a picnic on the shore. It is worth knowing, though, that the Névache municipality bans swimming and any water activities — including rafts, kayaks, or similar equipment — on all lakes within its territory, Lac Vert included. The lake is therefore a destination for viewing rather than for time spent in the water.

What can be seen around the lake?

From the approach trail and the lake's surroundings, hikers get views of several nearby peaks, including Mont Thabor and Grand Séru, as well as a group of summits known locally as the Rois Mages. Vegetation along the path is typically alpine, with valerian, buttercups, and various geranium species flowering through the summer months. Despite the trail's popularity, the area around the lake has kept the untouched feel typical of the high valleys around Clarée.

When is the best time to visit?

Summer is the best season for the walk, once the trail is clear of snow and the alpine plants are in full bloom. In spring and early summer, patches of snow can still linger at higher points along the route, which is worth checking in advance, especially for anyone planning to continue further into the Vallée Étroite.

FAQ

Where exactly is Lac Vert located? The lake lies in the commune of Névache, within the Vallée Étroite, a side valley off the Clarée valley in the Hautes-Alpes department, close to the French-Italian border.

Why is the water green? The lake's distinctive colour comes from algae that grow in its waters.

Can you swim in Lac Vert? No. The Névache municipality prohibits swimming and other water activities on all lakes within its boundaries.

Where does the trail to the lake start? The walk begins at the hamlet of Granges de la Vallée Étroite, accessed by road from Névache.

Is the hike suitable for children? Yes. Its short distance and limited elevation gain make it a popular choice for a family walk that ends with a picnic by the lake.

Which peaks are visible from the area? The route and the lake's surroundings offer views of Mont Thabor, Grand Séru, and the summits known as the Rois Mages.