Lakes

Lake Pellaud - Easily Accessible

Situated at approximately 1820 meters above sea level, Lake Pellaud is reachable with a short and easy 5-minute walk from the parking lot of the village of the same name.

This area, once called "le crou des ânes" (evidently the coolness of the place in summer was much appreciated by the donkeys), is part of the area known as "Jardin des Anglais", characterized by the Pellaud lakes and surrounded by larch forests.

Ideal for hikers who want to quickly immerse themselves in an alpine environment, it is an important nesting area for mallards.

Every spring, these ducks come to the tranquil shores of Lake Pellaud to lay their eggs and raise their ducklings. Visitors have the opportunity to observe the mallards teaching their ducklings to swim and search for food in the shallow waters of the lake.

The presence of these birds adds an additional layer of naturalistic interest to the lake, making it a popular destination for birdwatching enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Lake Goletta The Mirror of the Alps

The Lake Goletta, located at an altitude of 2699 meters, stands out not only for its high elevation but also for its pristine environment and breathtaking views that offer a glimpse into the heart of the Graian Alps.

To reach it, hikers depart from Refuge de Fond 2324, embarking on a round-trip journey of about three hours that winds through alpine trails and pastures rich with endemic flora. The hike is rewarded with spectacular views of the lake surrounded by majestic peaks, making it an ideal place to reflect on the grandeur of nature.

The area around Lake Goletta hosts remarkable alpine biodiversity, with floral species that adapt to extreme cold and rocky terrain. The lake is also a observation point for wildlife, including ibexes, bearded vultures, and golden eagles, that roam the surrounding areas.

Until the early 1990s, the Goletta Glacier extended directly into the lake, giving the landscape an even more dramatic and spectacular appearance. Today, due to climate change, the glacier has significantly retreated. This geological change highlights the impact of global warming on alpine ecosystems and serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of environmental conservation.

Lake Tsanteleynaz - An Oasis of Tranquility

Located at an altitude of 2696 meters and nestled beneath the imposing Granta Parey, Lake Sant'Elena is a natural wonder in the beautiful Rhêmes-Notre-Dame Valley. This place reflects the austere beauty of high altitude and offers a panorama dominated by scree and sparse alpine vegetation.

The route to reach it from Le Refuge de Fond 2324 requires a round-trip hike of about three hours.

Despite the inhospitable environment, the lake is surrounded by specialized alpine flora that has adapted to life at high altitudes. Flowers such as alpine poppies and gentians can be found during the summer months, providing splashes of vibrant color against the gray rocks. The fauna is similar to what you can find at Lake Goletta.

For hikers seeking tranquility and an authentic mountain experience, Lake Sant'Elena offers a refuge away from crowds. Here, surrounded by towering peaks and silence, visitors can find a deep sense of peace and connection with nature.