Lac du Lou
A stunning alpine lake in Val Thorens, offering breathtaking mountain views, refreshing (and cold!) swims, and a charming summit cafe.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant for hiking & views
Lac du Lou
Best Time
Pleasant for hiking & views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning alpine lake in Val Thorens, offering breathtaking mountain views, refreshing (and cold!) swims, and a charming summit cafe.
"It's a beautiful lake in the mountains!"
🥶 Brace for Cold Swims
The lake is beautiful but very cold! The summit cafe is a great place to warm up afterwards. :coffee:
⛰️ Hike to the Summit
Enjoy the scenic hike up to the cafe for incredible views of the surrounding mountains. :hiking_boot:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Serene Mountain Lake
Lac du Lou
A breathtaking alpine lake surrounded by majestic peaks, perfect for a refreshing, albeit chilly, swim.
Summit Cafe Views
Cafe at the top of the hill
Enjoy simple, delicious food and drinks with a welcoming atmosphere and stunning panoramic views.
Skiing from La Masse
La Masse slopes
Experience fantastic skiing directly from the La Masse area, offering a thrilling mountain adventure.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Lac du Lou
What to Expect at Lac du Lou
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥶 Brace for Cold Swims
The lake is beautiful but very cold! The summit cafe is a great place to warm up afterwards. :coffee:
⛰️ Hike to the Summit
Enjoy the scenic hike up to the cafe for incredible views of the surrounding mountains. :hiking_boot:
🎿 Skiing Access
If visiting in winter, enjoy skiing access from the La Masse area. :ski:
Tips
from all over the internet
🥶 Brace for Cold Swims
The lake is beautiful but very cold! The summit cafe is a great place to warm up afterwards. :coffee:
⛰️ Hike to the Summit
Enjoy the scenic hike up to the cafe for incredible views of the surrounding mountains. :hiking_boot:
🎿 Skiing Access
If visiting in winter, enjoy skiing access from the La Masse area. :ski:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the beautiful mountain scenery surrounding Lac du Lou, with many enjoying the refreshing, albeit cold, swims. The summit cafe is a popular spot for its welcoming atmosphere and delicious refreshments, offering stunning views. While primarily a natural attraction, its accessibility from La Masse also appeals to skiers.
"Super"
Adrien VZ
"Wonderful skiing from La Masse. Simple but delicious food and drinks. To bad it was fully booked for a overnight stay."
Peter Ångman
"Beautiful"
Moisés Silva
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lac du Lou is accessible from Val Thorens, particularly via the La Masse ski area in winter. In summer, hiking trails lead to the lake. Check local transport options for summer access to trailheads.
Parking availability can vary depending on the season. During ski season, access is primarily via ski lifts. For summer visits, research parking at nearby trail access points.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Access to the lake itself is generally free. However, if you plan to use ski lifts to reach the area during winter, lift passes will be required.
Lac du Lou is a natural outdoor location and is accessible year-round. The summit cafe will have specific operating hours, typically during the summer season and ski season.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Yes, you can swim in Lac du Lou, but be prepared for very cold water temperatures, even in summer! It's a refreshing experience for the brave. :cold_face:
The main facility is the cafe at the top of the hill, offering food and drinks. Restroom facilities may be limited, so plan accordingly.
Absolutely! Lac du Lou is surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery and offers excellent hiking opportunities, especially during the summer months.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The cafe at the top of the hill offers simple but delicious food and drinks, perfect for a break after hiking or a chilly swim. :sandwich:
While specific picnic areas aren't widely advertised, the natural surroundings offer many spots for a scenic picnic, especially during warmer months.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire area offers stunning photographic opportunities. Capture the lake with the mountain backdrop, the views from the summit cafe, and the surrounding alpine landscapes.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the most dramatic light for landscape photography, with softer shadows and golden hues.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Experiencing Lac du Lou: Summer vs. Winter
During the winter, Lac du Lou becomes part of the extensive ski domain of Val Thorens, particularly accessible from the La Masse slopes. Skiers can enjoy the challenging terrain and stunning alpine scenery. While swimming is unlikely in winter, the visual spectacle of the snow-capped mountains surrounding the frozen lake is equally captivating. Access is primarily via ski lifts, making it a destination for winter sports enthusiasts.
The Summit Cafe: A Welcoming Respite
Whether you're seeking a hot chocolate on a crisp day or a light lunch with a view, the summit cafe provides a cozy and convenient amenity. Its presence significantly enhances the overall experience of visiting Lac du Lou, offering comfort and a memorable vantage point for appreciating the natural splendor of the French Alps.
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