
Lac d'Anterne
A breathtaking alpine lake in the French Alps, renowned for its mirror-like reflections and abundant wildlife. Accessible via a scenic hike.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for reflections

Lac d'Anterne
Best Time
Best light for reflections

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking alpine lake in the French Alps, renowned for its mirror-like reflections and abundant wildlife. Accessible via a scenic hike.
"Magnificent hike from start to finish, a little piece of Norway or Iceland in the heart of the Alps."

🚗 Rent a Car for Access
A car is highly recommended for reaching trailheads and nearby towns for supplies.
🎒 Pack Picnic Essentials
The lake is an amazing spot for a picnic, but bring all your food and drinks.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Mirror-like Lake Reflections
Lac d'Anterne
Witness breathtaking reflections of the surrounding peaks in the crystal-clear waters of this alpine gem.

Abundant Wildlife Encounters
Trails to Lac d'Anterne
Spot playful marmots and grazing sheep along the scenic hiking routes, adding a wild charm to your adventure.

Spectacular Alpine Scenery
Rochers des Fiz
Immerse yourself in the dramatic landscapes of the Fiz mountain range, with rivers and waterfalls en route.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for a Scenic Hike
Logistics and Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Rent a Car for Access
A car is highly recommended for reaching trailheads and nearby towns for supplies.
🎒 Pack Picnic Essentials
The lake is an amazing spot for a picnic, but bring all your food and drinks.
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Boots Needed
The hike involves a climb; ensure you have good footwear for the terrain.
📸 Capture Stunning Reflections
Visit in the morning for the best chance to see the lake's mirror-like reflections.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Rent a Car for Access
A car is highly recommended for reaching trailheads and nearby towns for supplies.
🎒 Pack Picnic Essentials
The lake is an amazing spot for a picnic, but bring all your food and drinks.
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Boots Needed
The hike involves a climb; ensure you have good footwear for the terrain.
📸 Capture Stunning Reflections
Visit in the morning for the best chance to see the lake's mirror-like reflections.
⛺ Consider Camping
Camping is allowed, but popular spots fill up; explore higher areas for isolation.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Lac d'Anterne's stunning natural beauty, often comparing it to Norwegian or Icelandic landscapes. The hike is described as magnificent, with abundant wildlife like marmots and sheep adding to the charm. While the climb requires some fitness, the breathtaking views and the opportunity for swimming and picnicking make it a highly recommended destination.
"Excellent view on this lake. And good for swimming in summer. And many marmots and sheep to meet up close."
Gerard Dekker
"Amazing spot for your picnic! Just don't be afraid of a little climb. It's quite high :)"
Itai Eshkar
"Magnificent hike from start to finish, from the Lignon parking lot to Lake Anterne. You can see marmots and also flocks of sheep. The vegetation is incredible. River, waterfalls, lake, everything is magnificent."
L V
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lac d'Anterne is primarily accessed by hiking. The most common starting point is the Lignon parking lot. While public transport options exist to reach the general area, a car is highly recommended for easier access to trailheads and for exploring nearby towns like Sallanches for amenities.
While not strictly essential, a car significantly enhances the visitor experience. It allows for easier access to trailheads and provides flexibility for stocking up on supplies in towns like Sallanches, as there are limited services near the lake.
From Sallanches, follow signs towards Passy and then towards the designated hiking areas for Lac d'Anterne. The route is generally well-signposted, but having GPS is advisable.
Reaching the immediate vicinity of Lac d'Anterne by public transport can be challenging and time-consuming, often involving multiple train and bus connections. A car is generally the most convenient option.
Lac d'Anterne is located a reasonable distance from Chamonix. While it's possible to visit as a day trip, the travel time by car is significant, and many visitors opt to stay closer to the lake's access points.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entrance fee to access Lac d'Anterne itself. However, parking fees may apply at designated trailheads, depending on the specific location and season.
Lac d'Anterne is an natural outdoor attraction and is accessible year-round, weather permitting. Hiking trails are open during daylight hours.
No advance booking is required for visiting Lac d'Anterne. It's a natural site, and access is generally open to the public.
As a natural reserve, visitors are expected to respect the environment. Pack out all trash, stay on marked trails, and avoid disturbing wildlife.
Yes, camping is permitted at Lac d'Anterne. However, it's advisable to camp responsibly and be aware that popular spots can get crowded, especially on weekends.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The hike to Lac d'Anterne is considered moderately challenging. It involves a significant climb, so a reasonable level of fitness is recommended.
The hiking time can vary depending on your fitness level and the specific trail taken. Typically, it takes around 2-3 hours one way from the Lignon parking lot.
Visitors often report seeing marmots and sheep along the trails and around the lake. The area is rich in alpine flora and fauna.
Yes, swimming is possible in Lac d'Anterne during the summer months. The water is cold but refreshing.
Essential items include plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat, sturdy hiking boots, and a camera to capture the stunning scenery.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are very limited to no dining facilities directly at Lac d'Anterne. It's best to pack a picnic or plan to eat in nearby towns like Sallanches.
The shores of Lac d'Anterne itself offer magnificent spots for a picnic. Many hikers also find scenic locations along the trails with beautiful views.
No, there are no vendors or shops along the hiking trails leading to Lac d'Anterne. All food and drinks must be brought with you.
Given the hike, opt for easy-to-carry, high-energy foods like sandwiches, fruits, nuts, and energy bars. Don't forget to bring enough water.
The town of Sallanches, located a short drive from the trailheads, offers a variety of restaurants and cafes for a post-hike meal.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning is ideal for capturing the lake's mirror-like reflections, especially on calm days. Golden hour light can also create beautiful scenes.
The entire lake offers stunning photographic opportunities, particularly the reflections of the surrounding peaks. The waterfalls and lush vegetation along the trails are also very picturesque.
While any camera can capture the beauty, a wide-angle lens is beneficial for landscape photography to encompass the vast scenery. A polarizing filter can enhance the reflections and sky.
Regulations regarding drone usage in natural reserves can vary. It's advisable to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone.
Expect to capture breathtaking landscape shots, serene lake reflections, close-ups of alpine flora and fauna (like marmots), and dramatic mountain vistas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider starting your hike early to avoid the midday sun and potential crowds. The lake itself is a beautiful spot for a picnic lunch. While swimming is possible, the water is very cold, so it might be more of a splash for younger children. Ensure everyone wears comfortable, sturdy shoes as the terrain can be uneven.
💰 Budget Travelers
Packing your own picnic is crucial, as there are no dining facilities at the lake, saving significant money compared to eating out. If camping is an option, it's a very affordable way to stay overnight and fully immerse yourself in the alpine environment. Remember to factor in potential parking fees at trailheads. Overall, it's a destination that offers immense natural beauty without a hefty price tag.
💑 Couples
Consider camping overnight for a truly memorable experience. Watching the sunset paint the peaks and waking up to the tranquil morning light can be incredibly romantic. The opportunity to disconnect and enjoy nature together makes Lac d'Anterne an ideal spot for couples looking for an active yet peaceful getaway.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Hiking to Lac d'Anterne: Trails and Terrain
Along the way, the scenery is a constant highlight. You'll pass by cascading rivers and picturesque waterfalls, with lush alpine vegetation surrounding you. The air is crisp, and the views of the surrounding peaks, particularly the Rochers des Fiz, become increasingly dramatic as you gain altitude. Keep an eye out for the local wildlife; marmots are frequently spotted sunning themselves on rocks, and flocks of sheep often graze in the meadows.
For those seeking a more immersive experience, camping is permitted near the lake. However, it's important to note that popular camping spots can fill up, especially on weekends. Adventurous campers might consider hiking a bit further to find more secluded locations. Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve the pristine environment for future visitors.
Wildlife and Nature at Lac d'Anterne
The natural beauty extends beyond the fauna. The alpine flora is incredibly diverse, with a vibrant array of wildflowers blooming during the warmer months. The crystal-clear waters of the lake itself are a stunning turquoise, reflecting the dramatic peaks of the Rochers des Fiz. The surrounding landscape is sculpted by rivers and waterfalls, adding dynamic elements to the serene environment. This combination of wildlife, flora, and geological features makes Lac d'Anterne a truly special place.
When visiting, it's crucial to maintain a respectful distance from wildlife and avoid feeding them. Stick to marked trails to minimize your impact on the delicate ecosystem. The pristine condition of the lake and its surroundings is a testament to the efforts of visitors who practice responsible tourism.
Photography Tips for Lac d'Anterne
Beyond the lake itself, the journey offers numerous photographic subjects. The cascading waterfalls and lush alpine meadows provide excellent foreground interest for landscape shots. Don't forget to capture the wildlife, such as the charming marmots, which can make for delightful close-up photos. A wide-angle lens is highly recommended to encompass the grandeur of the mountain scenery, while a polarizing filter can enhance the colors and reduce glare on the water.
Consider the changing light throughout the day. While mornings are best for reflections, the golden hour before sunset can cast a warm, magical glow over the entire landscape. Remember to pack extra batteries and memory cards, as you'll likely find yourself taking far more photos than you initially planned.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit