The 5 lakes of La Forclaz: the must-do hike!

During your holidays in Savoie, enjoy an authentic experience from the Fort de la Platte, on a hike leading to a series of remarkable glacial lakes! Not a fan of the crowds in classic ski resorts? You will love mountains that speak through the silence of the peaks and the blue of the water! Ready for the famous 5 lakes of La Forclaz hike? Follow this guide for a well-planned route!

The 5 lakes hike at a glance

• A famous hike in Haute-Tarentaise.
• Loop route, starting from the Fort de la Platte.
• Total distance: about 11 to 12 km.
• Average duration: 4 h 30 to 6 h depending on pace and breaks.
• Total ascent: about 700 m.
• Level required: intermediate.
• Types of terrain: waymarked trails, rocky sections and exposed areas at altitude.
• Safety tip: always check the weather before setting off, as storms make the ground slippery and risky.
• Recommended equipment: good shoes, water, a windproof jacket even in summer.

The start at the Fort de la Platte

Head straight up to the starting point of this hike, located at over 1,900 m!

Getting to the Fort de la Platte

To start this circuit, go to the Fort de la Platte car park (also called Fort 2000), 15 km from our campsite in Savoie. From Bourg-Saint-Maurice, take the Échines road to get there.

This former 19th-century fortification marks the start of the adventure. The ascent begins on a drivable track that rises above the mountain pastures.

The view from the starting point

Admire the panorama over the peaks of the Beaufortain from the very first bends. The trail is waymarked and generally well defined. Designed according to the Séré de Rivières system at the end of the 19th century, the fort was part of the Alpine defensive network. Today, some areas around it are used for grazing and for ageing Beaufort cheese.

• Technical details: about 5 km of climbing to the high point; Difficulty: moderate.
• Our tips: arrive before 8.30 am. The car park fills up quickly in high season, and the first climb faces due south.
• The little extra: buy a piece of Beaufort AOP directly at the Fort de la Platte (local production) before you set off.

Lac Esola and Lac Riondet: the mirrors of the Versant du Soleil

Cross the first rocky barrier to discover Lac Esola! At about 2,320 m, this lake with grassy shores is ideal for a first stop. Then continue to Lac Riondet, at about 2,335 m in the small valley. Here, the landscape becomes wilder and more mineral.

Watch the marmots scurrying over the scree. The area is rich in alpine wildlife! Try to respect the silence of the place and walk at a steady pace so as not to tire yourself out before the climb to the upper lakes of La Forclaz.

• Technical details: 30 to 45 minutes between the two lakes; rocky trail, but well defined for most of the route.
• Our tip: check trail conditions on the IGN map or with the local tourist office in Bourg-Saint-Maurice.
• Visitors' favourite: the emerald-green colour of Lac Esola, depending on the angle of the sun.

Lac Cornu and Lac Verdet: the high point of your hike

Now head for the heart of the valley! Lac Cornu is hidden in a hollow at 2,455 m, surrounded by sharp peaks. Just above, Lac Verdet awaits you at 2,504 m. It is one of the most photographed spots on the 5 lakes of La Forclaz hike.

Breathe in this pure air! The view of the surrounding peaks is vast from here.

• Technical details: possible ridge section; be extra careful in fog.
• Our tip: even in the middle of August, bring a windproof jacket, as the temperature can drop with altitude.
• Worth knowing: snow patches can linger around Lac Verdet late in the season.

Lac Noir and the descent via the Col de la Forclaz

Discover the highest point of the 5 lakes of La Forclaz: Lac Noir! Its name comes from the depth of its waters and the shadow cast by the surrounding peaks. Perched at 2,532 m in a basin, it has a powerful atmosphere. The trail then continues to the Col de la Forclaz (2,374 m), the one in the Beaufortain, not to be confused with its better-known namesake near Lake Annecy, before heading back. Note that the descent can be technical in places.

• Technical details: about 5 km of descent; terrain: scree and alpine meadows.
• Our tip: use your walking poles!
• Expert advice: do not cut the hairpins of the trail, as this increases erosion and damages the protected alpine flora.

The final panorama before heading back

Finish your 5 lakes of La Forclaz loop by enjoying the view from the natural balconies overlooking the valley, which reward your efforts with a wide view of the whole circuit.

It is the ideal place for a last break before returning to the Fort de la Platte car park. You will have completed one of the most beautiful hikes in Savoie, combining geology, history and sport!

After walking these steep trails, your body needs rest. Imagine diving into the heated pool at our campsite! Located in Landry, at the crossroads of the finest routes, l’Eden de la Vanoise is your ideal refuge. Relax on your terrace facing the mountains you have just climbed. Check our availability and book your stay at Camping L’Eden de la Vanoise now! The Beaufortain is waiting to reveal its bluest secrets!