logo
ic_menu

Lake Allos loop hike

Montagne du Lac, Allos, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur

Description

The Lake Allos loop hike takes place in the Mercantour National Park, in France's South Eastern Alps. The glacial lake is at an altitude of 2,230m and is quite large (55-60ha). The Mercantour is known for its lakes, flora (rhododendrons, firs, Spruces, Swiss pines and larches) and fauna (chamois, deer and marmots). The 9km trail has a cumulative ascent of about 300m, making it suitable for intermediate and possibly unexperienced hikers. The estimated completion time is 2.5-3h. The trail is quite straightforward, heading to the Lake Allos Refuge, going around the lake and heading back down on the opposite side of the refuge for a change in scenery.

Access & Transport

The starting point is the parking du Laus, about 3km east of the village of Allos (there is only one road in that direction). The parking has limited space and is paying. There are additional free spaces at the parking de la Cluite. The village of Allos is 35km south of Barcelonnette (across the Sestriere and Thuiles mountain passes), 55km north of Castellane and 130km (2h) northwest of Nice.

Instructions & Recommendations

Make sure to bring proper footwear, some snacks (and possibly a picnic), plenty of water, sun protection and rain/wind coat depending on the weather forecast. Cloudy doesn't mean the UVs won't get to you and the weather changes quickly in the high mountains.

Meta review

Online reviews for this hike are excellent, confirming it is adequate for beginners and that the setting of the lake is gorgeous with proper visitor amenities both at the parking and at the refuge. Many hikers spend the night bivouacking by the lake. There is a word of advice to book a parking space online ahead of time or reach before 9h30 during the summer.

Environmental & Social

Eco-friendly activity. Socially marginally positive as it brings some revenues to the villages in the valley and the people running the refuge.

Conclusion

The Lac d'Allos trail is beginner-friendly but thoroughly enjoyable by all. The refuge and lake are the perfect setting for a picnic and casual round-the-lake walk before heading back down towards your car and the villages of Allos or Colmars. One of the best hiking options in the Mercantour National Park

Key positive

Fantastic scenery

Enjoyable for all levels of fitness

Key negative

Time consuming to get to the trailhead from most cities except Nice

Parking can get full early during the peak season

Suitability

Only a minimum fitness level is required, which makes it suitable for families

About this Rating

TYPE

Desktop

RESEARCHED IN

June 2024

PROVIDER

Koreval

Included Items
None
Timing
Duration of visit
"Closed season" reflects the likelihood of inclement weather or the trail being unpracticable

av. transport time:1h 30m

est. visit time:3h

Sunlight based

Sunrise / early morningOk

MorningOk

Lunch timeOk

AfternoonOk

Sunset / eveningOk

Night – bef. midnightNo

Night – aft. midnightNo

Pricing
Free

We use cookies on this site to enhance your user experience. For a complete overview of all cookies used, please see MORE INFORMATION.