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.

Parking and access to Lake Allos

Is the destination accessible to people with reduced mobility?

A joëlette (all-terrain wheelchair) is available free of charge from the Mercantour National Park chalet in the Laus car park.

Another is available to borrow at the Tourist Office reception in Colmars-les-Alpes. You can book it online.

How can I park on the Lake Allos road?

Four parking options:

  • 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 Lake Allos)

For the Laus car park:

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

Can I go to Lake 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.

Other questions

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.

In general

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 swim in the lake?

Swimming in Lake Allos is prohibited under Mercantour National Park regulations.

What's so special about Lake Allos?

Lake 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).

Other questions

Is Lake 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 fly a drone at Lake Allos?

The use of drones is prohibited in the vicinity of Lake Allos.

Stay

Is it possible to stay near Lake Allos?

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

You can also bivouac around Lake 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.

Lake Allos hike

How much time should I allow for this hike?

It is best to allow a full day, whatever your starting point.
Lake 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.

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, November): 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.

How difficult is the Lake 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.

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.

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 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.

Are dogs and pets allowed?

No: under Mercantour National Park regulations, dogs and other pets are not allowed, even on a lead, to preserve the tranquillity of the wildlife.

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 Lake 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

Can I cycle to Lake 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.

Map of access to Lake Allos by car and on foot

Allos village car park

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

La Cluite car park

Free parking for about 100 cars.

From this car park (about a 25-minute drive from Allos), it takes about 2 hours 30 minutes 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).