9 PNMercantour Lac d’Allos – Le plus grand lac d’altitude d’Europe Parc National du Mercantour – Ph. Murtas – Verdon Tourisme

FAQ Lac d’Allos

Lac d’Allos, Europe’s largest high-altitude lake, is a natural treasure offering a picturesque and memorable experience for hikers, outdoor enthusiasts and holidaymakers in search of spectacular Alpine scenery.

Lac d’Allos is fed by underground springs and mountain streams, giving it crystal-clear water of great purity. Its turquoise waters and panoramic views make it a popular hiking spot and a destination of choice for nature lovers and photographers.

Lac d'Allos

Parking and access to Lac d'Allos

How can I park on the Lac d'Allos road? (Laus car park prices and booking)

In Allos village

At the La Chaup car park (the last car park accessible to vehicles over 2.10 m high)

At the La Cluite car park

At the Laus car park (the closest to Lac d'Allos)

Paid Laus car park, with limited access depending on the season

15-16 JuneLimited and paid from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Access costs €10 per car and €5 for motorised two-wheelers (free access for bicycles), subject to availability.

Car park prices and booking

22-23 June
From 29 June to 1 September
7-8 September
14-15 September

Can I go to Lac d'Allos at any time?

Access to the lake in winter is not recommended, unless accompanied by a mountain guide. The risk of avalanches in both couloirs makes this a period to be avoided.

On the other hand, this destination is accessible from spring snowmelt until the first autumn snowfall, i.e. from May-June to the end of November.

How do I get there?

The lake is 10.5 km from the village of Allos by road, and 17.5 km from the village of Colmars-les-Alpes.

Other questions

Can I bring my pets to Lac d'Allos?

Dogs are not allowed in the Mercantour National Park to preserve the tranquillity of the wildlife.

Is the destination accessible to people with reduced mobility (PRM)?

A joëlette is available free of charge from the Parc National du Mercantour chalet in the Laus parking lot.

In general

What's so special about Lac d'Allos?

Lac d’Allos, in the heart of the Mercantour National Park, is Europe’s largest natural lake at its altitude. Its location preserves the flora and fauna, offering an abundance of marmots and other wild animals (ibex, chamois).

Is Lac d'Allos too touristy?

It is a popular site that is often busy, especially in high season.
Regulations are in place at the car parks to limit the number of visitors, protect the environment and let you make the most of this unique place.
Don't hesitate: it is really worth it.

Is it possible to swim in the lake?

Swimming in Lac d’Allos is prohibited under Mercantour National Park regulations.

Other questions

Is there a water point to refill?

When the Allos refuge and its bar are open, you can quench your thirst with a panoramic view of the lake.

A water point remains available out of season; it is best to check with the tourist offices beforehand that it is still there.

Is it possible to fly a drone on Lac d'Allos?

The use of drones is prohibited in the vicinity of Lac d’Allos.

Stay

Is it possible to stay near Lac d'Allos?

At the Lac d’Allos refuge, you can stay, eat and enjoy the terrace. Reservations are recommended on 04 92 83 00 24.

You can also bivouac around Lac d’Allos from 7 p.m. to 9 a.m. in accordance with regulations, but without making a fire. So don’t forget to bring a stove.

Lac d'Allos hike

Can I cycle to Lac d'Allos?

No: to preserve the tranquillity of the area, the heart of the Park is mainly explored on foot.
However, you can cycle to the Laus car park free of charge, where bike racks are available. From there, a 45-minute walk takes you to the lake.

How difficult is the Lac d'Allos hike?

  • Easy from the Laus car park: the climb is moderate and short, making this option accessible.
  • Intermediate from the La Cluite car park: expect a continuous climb over rough terrain for more than 2 hours.
  • Difficult from Allos village: expect a 7-hour round trip with 800 metres of elevation gain.

How much time should I allow for this hike?

It is best to allow a full day, whatever your starting point.
Lac d'Allos, one of the most beautiful sites in the Alps, offers many activities such as walking around the lake, various viewpoints and picnic areas.
Experienced hikers may even consider a two-day bivouac to make the most of the scenery.

Other questions

Is the hike well waymarked?

Yes, the path is clearly marked with the white and red waymarks of the GR 56, then the yellow waymarks of the GR de Pays towards the lake. The chances of getting lost are low.
However, mobile coverage is limited, so bring a map or download a GPX track in advance.

Can I do this hike with children?

Yes, especially from the Laus car park (see the map at the bottom of the page for parking), which offers a 45-minute walk to the lake. For children used to walking, starting from the La Cluite car park is also an option.

What is the best season for this hike?
  • Summer (mid-June to mid-September): this is the high season; the trails can be busier.
  • Off season (May, June, September, October): fewer people and a quieter experience, weather permitting.
  • Winter: accessible but potentially dangerous – it is best to contact a guide and go with them. See the guides.

Are dogs and pets allowed?

No: under Mercantour National Park regulations, dogs and other pets are not allowed, even on a lead.

What equipment do I need for this hike?

Bring hiking boots, suitable clothing, food, water, a bag for your rubbish, walking poles if you wish and, in summer, sun cream and a hat.

A water point is normally available at the Allos refuge; check beforehand.

Can I get to the lake in a motorhome?

Motorhomes can park at the La Chaup car park (see the map at the bottom of the page for parking); spaces are limited.

What other hikes can I do from Lac d'Allos?

Discover the Col de l'Encombrette, the loop of glacial lakes in the Mercantour National Park, or climb Mont Pelat at over 3,000 metres.

Cols and lakes of the Encombrette.

Mont Pelat

Map of access to Lac d'Allos by car and on foot

Allos village parking lot

On the map, you can see the 4 possible parking areas starting from Allos.

In Allos village

At the La Chaup car park (last car park accessible to vehicles over 2.10 m high)

At the La Cluite car park

At the Laus car park (the closest to Lac d'Allos)

From Allos village, allow 7 hours for the round trip, with red and white waymarks.
Although further away, this starting point makes the lake accessible without taking a car from the village.

Perhaps plan a night at the Lac d'Allos refuge

La Chaup car park

Free parking for approx. 10 cars. This is the last one accessible to vehicles over 2.10 m high.

From this parking lot (approx. 10 mins by car from Allos), it will take you approx. 3hrs 15mins to reach the lake, part of which is along the road (approx. 45mins), then from the La Cluite parking lot via the GR56.

La Cluite car park

Free parking for 100 cars.

From this parking lot (about a 25-minute drive from Allos), it takes about 2h30 to reach the lake via the GR56.

Laus car park

From this car park (about a 30-minute drive from Allos), it takes about 45 minutes to reach the lake.

Paid Laus car park, with limited access depending on the season.

As soon as a space becomes free, you can enter the car park. Single price (no time limit).

15-16 JuneLimited and paid from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Access costs €10 per car and €5 for motorised two-wheelers (free access for bicycles), subject to availability.

Car park prices and booking

22-23 June
From 29 June to 1 September
7-8 September
14-15 September
Opening hours and prices Prices and booking