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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Very Easy
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
254 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
4.5 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
1.5-2h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Physical DIFF
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Technical DIFF
Directions to Trailhead

Lac d’Allos

Panorama from the Lac d'Allos hike in Mercantour National Park, France
Measurement:

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Table of contents

One of the easiest and most beautiful hikes in Mercantour National Park. You’ll get superb views of the Lac d’Allos, the biggest high-mountain-lake in Europe with a size of 60ha. This is a walk you don’t want to miss.

Route Description for Lac d’Allos

From the parking take the only path that start close the little house. After ten minutes, you’ll arrive at the first glacier threshold, where there once was an ancient lake, now a nice bog. The paths will reach a trail that will arrive from the left. Ignore it.

After 30 or so minutes (if you’re going at a good speed), go along to the left you’ll get to the second glacier threshold, from here you can see the Lac d’Allos 2,228 m.

Once at the lake you can enjoy a meal at the refuge. Then, if you want, you can do the round-trip of the lake, but that is optional.

To return, go back the same way.

Insider Hints for Lac d’Allos

  • If you still have energy, you can go up until the Mont Pelat 10007ft, one of the highest peaks of this region.  From here you have a panoramic view of Provence and, with a clear sky, you can see all the way to the Corse.
  • Before you make it to the lake, on the left there’s the path to Col de l’Encombrette 8291ft. On that path you can get to Colmars les Alpes (4h).
  • The best off shoot hike from Lac D’Allos is the Sommets Des Garrets, which you can take with our guide at hike six.
  • One of our favourite places to stay while near Allos is the Refuge du Lac d’Allos. The food is great, the lodging is simple and you are right beside the lake. If you want something more upscale check out the Allos or Colmars tourism page.

Getting to the Lac d’Allos Trailhead

From Nice airport go up the valley of the Var by the RM 6202 and then by the D4202 until you reach Allos. At the first crossroad, go right on the D2 to Lac d’Allos. You’ll reach the starting point after 7.8mi. The parking costs 8€ per car per day.

Route Information

  • When to do:

    May to end of October

  • Backcountry Campsites:

    In Allos or from 7 p.m. to 9 a.m. on site

  • Toilets:

    Yes. Refuge Lac d’Allos

  • Family friendly:

    No

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    Moderate

  • Route Type:

    Out and back

Lac d’Allos Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

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