Allos Lake

Lake Allos, perched at an altitude of over 2 meters, is the largest natural high-altitude lake in Europe. Located in the heart of the Mercantour National Park, it offers a breathtaking spectacle of unspoiled nature, calm, and serenity. In summer, its exceptional wealth of flora and fauna makes it an ideal place for nature lovers and hikers seeking unique discoveries. In spring, the melting snow reveals invigorating landscapes. And in autumn, the golden hues of the larches enchant hikers. In winter, the lake and its surroundings transform into a peaceful haven, ideal for snowshoeing and observing the snowy landscape.

On the way to Lake Allos

Equip yourself with good hiking boots and prepare your backpack with everything you need (water, a picnic, and snacks like a chocolate bar for energy). This way, you'll be well-equipped for your adventure to Lac d'Allos.

This natural gem attracts many visitors. To fully enjoy its tranquility and exceptional landscapes, visit in June or September. Indeed, the crowds are lower and the nature is still as splendid.

To reach Lake Allos on foot, here are some approximate walking times during the summer:

• Departure from the village of Allos, via the GR56B: 7 hours round trip, red and white markings; this starting point, although further away, makes the lake accessible without taking a car from the village
• From the Cluite car park: 5 hours round trip
• Departure from the Laus car park: 1 hours round trip

Regulated access to Lake Allos

Access to the Laus car park is first made via a small mountain road open from mid-June to mid-October (except for climatic hazards).

During the high season (the last two weekends of June, the first two weekends of September and from the beginning of July to the end of August), access to the Laus car park is regulated, in the direction of the ascent. From the Cluite car park, limited and paying from 7 a.m. to 17 p.m., depending on the spaces available.

In winter :

The lake is accessible by snowshoe or cross-country ski. It's a 6,5 km climb (approximately 3 hours) from the "Chaup" car park.

This high mountain area is unsafe. The route crosses avalanche risk areas with several dangerous corridors.

Reach Lake Allos

Access to this mountain lake requires a more or less long walk depending on your starting point and the time of year.

A guaranteed change of scenery in the heart of Mercantour

As soon as you arrive at Lac d'Allos, you are immediately transported to another universe. The deep blue of the lake majestically reflects the surrounding gray mountains. The bright green of the alpine lawns and larches completes this idyllic picture. The pure air and the vastness of the space invite contemplation. It's impossible not to be amazed by this natural harmony.

Meeting the fauna and flora

As you take the path that circles the lake, you will be amazed by the diversity of flowers: blue, yellow, red, all accompanied by fluttering butterflies! The surrounding calm is punctuated by the sounds of nature. The breath of the wind in the treetops, the characteristic cry of a marmot, or even the rustling of the majestic griffon vultures of the Verdon.

Looking towards Mont Pelat in the distance, you might spot a herd of chamois or a few ibex perched on the rocks. Their curved horns, which can reach up to a meter, make the males easy to recognize. An unforgettable encounter with the Mercantour wildlife!

A refuge for a well-deserved break

After an exciting hike, the lakeside refuge is the perfect place to recharge your batteries. Why not enjoy a delicious blueberry tart with a cup of hot chocolate while admiring the view? You can also visit the small Notre-Dame des Monts Chapel for a moment of reflection.

Want to extend your experience? Spend the night at the refuge to watch the sunset over the lake and admire the spectacle of a starry sky of rare purity. The friendly team welcomes you from mid-June to mid-September.

Hikes around Lake Allos

Allos Lake is also the starting point for numerous hikes. Choose the Col de l'Encombrette or explore the loop of the Lausson and Petite Cayolle lakes. The more adventurous can tackle the ascent of Mont Pelat, which peaks at 3 meters. At its summit, a breathtaking panorama of the Alps awaits you, rewarding every effort.

Lake Allos is not just a destination, it's an immersive experience in the heart of nature, where every visit promises unforgettable memories. Your starting point will likely be the village of Allos.

Answers to your questions

Follow the herds closely using the interactive map and discover this innovative local initiative.

PastoRando, locations of the Allos summer herds

PastoRando is an experiment carried out by the Alpes Provence Verdon Community of Communes in the commune of Allos since summer 2022.

Herds automatically located on a map every hour by sensors.

The zones expand when the signal is lost. The user's position, generated by their phone, allows them to locate themselves in relation to them.

Information given for information purposes only as it may happen that the herd or the guard dogs move suddenly.

Find Locations of the summer herds in the commune of Allos on the interactive map.