Hike to Lac de la Plagne in the Vanoise
In short
Lac de la Plagne lies at 2,144 metres, in the municipality of Landry, in the heart of the Vanoise National Park. It is reached by a 15-kilometre loop hike from the Rosuel refuge, graded difficult, with 700 metres of ascent and about 5 hours of walking. The ideal period is from June to September.
Key takeaways
- Start: Rosuel refuge, in Peisey-Nancroix
- Distance: 15 km loop, 700 m of ascent, about 5 hours of walking
- Difficulty: graded difficult (red), for hikers in good physical condition
- The lake is 19 m deep and is home to lake trout, brown trout and brook trout
- Dogs are not allowed in the core area of the Vanoise National Park
- The Entre le Lac refuge, by the water, offers accommodation and meals from mid-June to mid-September
Lac de la Plagne lies at an altitude of 2,144 m, in the heart of the Vanoise National Park. Accessible from the Rosuel refuge in Peisey-Nancroix, this 7.6-hectare natural lake is 19 m deep. Its azure waters reflect the surrounding snow-capped peaks. The sound of Tarine cows' bells completes this mountain atmosphere. Between hiking, fishing and a staffed refuge, the site attracts many walkers every summer!
Here is everything you need to know to prepare this outing during your stay at our campsite in Savoie.
A high-altitude lake in the heart of the Vanoise National Park
Lac de la Plagne sits in a glacial cirque in the upper Peisey-Nancroix valley, in Savoie. With a surface area of 7.6 hectares and a depth of 19 metres, it is one of the largest natural lakes in the massif. Its intense azure waters reflect the snow-capped peaks. The sound of Tarine cows' bells sets the rhythm.
The site belongs to the Vanoise National Park, the first national park created in France. Chamois, marmots and bearded vultures live in the area. As for the flora, the peat bogs around the lake are home to protected species.
The lake is as suited to contemplation as it is to high-altitude fishing!
How to get to Lac de la Plagne from Peisey-Nancroix?
The hike starts at the Rosuel refuge, accessible by car from Peisey-Nancroix. The trail then follows the famous GR5 southwards. Allow about 5 hours of walking for this 15 km loop, with 700 m of ascent. The route is graded difficult (red) and suits hikers in good physical condition.
The route first crosses an alder grove, then gradually climbs to the Rèbe passage. Waterfalls follow one another along the path, including the Nants Pourris falls. You then cross several streams and wetlands before reaching Lac de la Plagne. The ideal period is from June to September, when the trail is clear.
| Key facts | Details |
| Start | Rosuel refuge (Peisey-Nancroix) |
| Distance | 15 km (loop) |
| Ascent | 700 m |
| Duration | About 5 h |
| Difficulty | Difficult (red) |
| Season | June to September |
| Waymarking | GR5 |
Good to know: dogs are not allowed in the core area of the Vanoise National Park. With your four-legged friend, stay on the left bank. Do not go beyond the Entre le Lac refuge.
What to see and do at Lac de la Plagne?
Lac de la Plagne offers much more than a simple hiking destination. Here are the activities and points of interest that await you there.
- High-altitude lake fishing: the lake is home to lake trout, brown trout and brook trout. Fishing is permitted on certain days in summer. A fishing permit is required.
- The Entre le Lac refuge: this converted former sheepfold welcomes hikers from mid-June to mid-September. You can enjoy mountain cuisine and spend the night there.
- Wildlife watching: chamois, marmots and bearded vultures frequent the lakeside. The site is ideal for contemplation and wildlife photography.
- The Plan Richard lakes: experienced hikers extend the outing to these lakes located between 2,481 m and 2,584 m.
“For anglers, the lake trout of Lac de la Plagne is a rare catch in France. This fish, native to North America, was introduced into these waters several decades ago. It is caught with a spoon lure or by spin casting: an experience to try at least once.” – The team at Camping L’Eden de la Vanoise
Planning a hike to Lac de la Plagne? Our campsite in Landry, a stone's throw from the Rosuel refuge and the lake trail, is the ideal base camp. Book your stay now!
Sébastien’s tipThis lake is in our municipality of Landry, a stone's throw from the campsite: it is one of the hikes I recommend most to guests looking for a real immersion in the Vanoise without travelling to the other side of Savoie. Set off early in the morning from the Rosuel refuge, the trail climbs seriously and the morning light on the lake is magnificent. Bring fishing gear if the season allows, it is permitted on certain days.
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Frequently asked questions
How long is the hike to Lac de la Plagne?
The hike to Lac de la Plagne takes about 5 hours as a loop from the Rosuel refuge. The route covers 15 km with 700 m of ascent, following the GR5.
What accommodation does Camping L’Eden de la Vanoise offer?
Camping L’Eden de la Vanoise in Landry offers mobile homes in Savoie for 2 to 6 people, 40 m² wooden chalets and canvas bungalows. Pitches for tents, caravans and motorhomes are also available. The campsite has a heated indoor pool.
Can you fish at Lac de la Plagne?
Yes, fishing at Lac de la Plagne is permitted in summer, on certain days of the week. A fishing permit is compulsory. The waters are home to lake trout, brown trout and brook trout.
Are dogs allowed at Lac de la Plagne?
Dogs are not allowed in the core area of the Vanoise National Park. If you are hiking with your dog, stay on the left bank and do not go beyond the Entre le Lac refuge.