Lac des Fées
An enchanting alpine lake with crystal-clear waters, named for its magical allure, offering a rewarding hike and breathtaking mountain scenery.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clear skies, fewer crowds
Lac des Fées
Best Time
Clear skies, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An enchanting alpine lake with crystal-clear waters, named for its magical allure, offering a rewarding hike and breathtaking mountain scenery.
"A beautiful place, great walk, swimming recommended for the brave!"
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The climb is steep; good hiking shoes are a must for stability and comfort.
🥶 Brave the Cold Water
Swimming is possible but expect very cold water, even in summer!
Quick Facts
Rating
4.9 · 15 reviews
Type
Natural Feature
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Enchanting Lake
Beaufortain Alps
A charming, crystal-clear alpine lake with a magical name, perfect for a refreshing dip or quiet contemplation.
Scenic Alpine Hike
Trail to Lac des Fées
A rewarding trek through stunning mountain scenery, offering panoramic views and a sense of accomplishment.
Legendary Name
Gatineau Park (Canada)
Discover the folklore behind this serene lake, rumored to be a haven for fairies, adding a touch of enchantment.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for a Steep Climb
Embrace the Chill
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The climb is steep; good hiking shoes are a must for stability and comfort.
🥶 Brave the Cold Water
Swimming is possible but expect very cold water, even in summer!
🚫 Check Dog Policies
Dogs may be restricted on certain trails; confirm local rules to avoid fines.
💧 Protect the Water
Avoid using sunscreen directly in the lake to keep the water pristine.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The climb is steep; good hiking shoes are a must for stability and comfort.
🥶 Brave the Cold Water
Swimming is possible but expect very cold water, even in summer!
🚫 Check Dog Policies
Dogs may be restricted on certain trails; confirm local rules to avoid fines.
💧 Protect the Water
Avoid using sunscreen directly in the lake to keep the water pristine.
📸 Capture the Magic
The lake's beauty is best captured with a good camera, especially during golden hour.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Lac des Fées for its stunning beauty, clear waters, and peaceful atmosphere, making it a highly recommended destination for hikers and nature lovers. However, some note the challenging steepness of the hike and the very cold water temperatures, even in summer. Be aware of potential dog restrictions on trails.
"Having taken a dip in the middle of summer, the water must be 12°C. A word of warning to those who enjoy the water: be careful not to bring out the frozen sour cherries!
A magnificent place. Be careful not to pollute the water in this beautiful spot with sunscreen residue..."
Nirvân Sandner
"A beautiful place, great walk
Swimming recommended for the brave
Recommended"
Mathis Sanz Martinez
"Very beautiful, quiet and peaceful place! However, be careful, the walk is forbidden to dogs (we were not told this at the mountain house). There is a risk of a fine. The climb is splendid but steep. Make sure you have good shoes, water, etc. We did it with two children aged 4 and 7. It was sometimes complicated for them on the climb. I still recommend it!"
Melanie Mertz
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lac des Fées can be accessed via hiking trails. In the Beaufortain region of the Alps, it's a popular hiking destination. In Gatineau Park, Canada, it's also accessible by trail, with parking nearby. 
The hike to Lac des Fées in the Beaufortain region is approximately 9 km with about 348m of elevation gain, taking around 3.5 hours round trip.
Yes, parking is available near Lac des Fées, making it relatively easy to access for hikers.
The hike is described as moderate to steep, with challenging sections, especially for young children. Good physical condition is recommended.
While Chamonix is a popular starting point for many alpine hikes, Lac des Fées is typically accessed from areas like Beaufortain or Arêches-Beaufort.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, typically there are no entrance fees or tickets required to visit Lac des Fées, as it's a natural lake accessible via hiking trails.
Lac des Fées is a natural outdoor attraction, so it is accessible year-round during daylight hours. Hiking trails may have seasonal closures or conditions.
Generally, hiking trails leading to natural sites like Lac des Fées are free to access.
No specific permits are usually required for day visits to Lac des Fées. However, always check local park regulations for any specific rules.
While the lake is a natural site, hiking at night is not recommended due to safety concerns and potential trail closures. Stick to daylight hours.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy hiking, photography, picnicking, and for the brave, swimming in the very cold, clear water.
Yes, swimming is allowed, but be prepared for extremely cold water, even in summer, around 12°C.
You might spot marmots and chamois in the surrounding alpine environment.
The hike can be challenging for young children due to steep sections, but it is doable with preparation and breaks.
Bring sturdy hiking shoes, plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat, and a camera. A swimsuit if you plan to swim!
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, in the late afternoon, offers beautiful lighting for capturing the lake's serene beauty.
Drone usage may be subject to local regulations. It's best to check with park authorities before flying.
The reflections on the clear water, the surrounding mountain peaks, and the unique charm of the lake itself are highly photogenic.
Yes, if you are lucky, you might spot marmots or chamois, offering great opportunities for wildlife photography.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, and a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A polarizing filter can enhance water reflections.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit