Barrage de Tignes Chevril Dam
An immense concrete dam holding back a vast alpine lake, with a submerged village beneath.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Clear skies, calm waters
Barrage de Tignes Chevril Dam
Best Time
Clear skies, calm waters
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An immense concrete dam holding back a vast alpine lake, with a submerged village beneath.
"A monumental feat of engineering with breathtaking views and a haunting history."
🚶♀️ Walk the Dam Crest
Stroll across the top of the dam for incredible views and a sense of scale. :athletic_shoe:
📚 Learn the History
Research the submerged village before you go to truly appreciate the site. :books:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Chevril Dam
An impressive feat of engineering, this massive concrete dam holds back the waters of the Chevril Lake, creating a stunning reservoir.
Submerged Village of Tignes
Beneath the lake lies the original Tignes village, a poignant reminder of the past and the impact of the dam's construction.
Panoramic Lake Views
Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the vast, turquoise Chevril Lake, surrounded by the majestic French Alps.
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Planning Your Visit
Understand the History
Check Dam Operations
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk the Dam Crest
Stroll across the top of the dam for incredible views and a sense of scale. :athletic_shoe:
📚 Learn the History
Research the submerged village before you go to truly appreciate the site. :books:
Tignes Dam France
📸 Capture the Scenery
Bring your camera for stunning alpine and lake photography. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk the Dam Crest
Stroll across the top of the dam for incredible views and a sense of scale. :athletic_shoe:
📚 Learn the History
Research the submerged village before you go to truly appreciate the site. :books:
📸 Capture the Scenery
Bring your camera for stunning alpine and lake photography. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently impressed by the sheer scale and engineering of the Chevril Dam, often finding the panoramic views of the lake and surrounding Alps breathtaking. The historical context of the submerged village adds a poignant and fascinating dimension to the experience, though some note the limited facilities directly at the dam site.
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The dam is accessible by car from Tignes Val Claret or Tignes Les Boisses. Parking is available nearby. Public transport options might be limited, so check local bus schedules if not driving.
During peak season, local shuttle buses may operate in the Tignes area, potentially stopping near the dam. It's best to confirm current routes with the Tignes tourist office.
Driving offers the most flexibility. You can park and then walk to the dam crest for the best views. Consider the scenic route via the Col de l'Iseran if coming from further afield.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, access to the dam crest and surrounding areas is free. There are no specific tickets required for viewing the dam itself.
The dam is an outdoor structure, so it's typically accessible year-round during daylight hours. However, access might be restricted during severe weather conditions.
While not always advertised, inquire at the Tignes tourist office about potential guided tours that might offer insights into the dam's construction and history.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can walk along the dam crest, admire the engineering, and take in the stunning views of Chevril Lake and the surrounding mountains. It's a great spot for photography.
Yes, the dam crest is designed for pedestrian access and is generally safe. However, always be mindful of your surroundings, especially in windy conditions.
Swimming in Chevril Lake is generally not permitted due to safety regulations related to dam operations and water quality. Stick to designated recreational areas if available.
Facilities can be limited directly at the dam. It's advisable to use restrooms and purchase refreshments in Tignes town before heading to the dam.
📸 📸 Photography
The dam crest offers panoramic views. Try different angles looking down at the lake or across the vast expanse of the structure. The surrounding mountain peaks also make for great backdrops.
Early morning or late afternoon during the 'golden hour' provides beautiful light. Midday can be harsh, but the sheer scale of the dam is still impressive.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the dam and the landscape. A telephoto lens can be useful for details or distant mountain shots. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions.
For Different Travelers
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👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of the Submerged Village
The memory of the old village is still strong in Tignes. Periodically, when water levels are exceptionally low, the ruins of the old church and other buildings can become visible, offering a haunting glimpse into the past. This phenomenon draws curious visitors and serves as a powerful reminder of the human cost of such large-scale engineering projects.
Understanding this history adds a profound layer to any visit to the dam. It transforms the impressive structure from just a piece of concrete into a monument to a community's resilience and adaptation. It's a story of sacrifice and a testament to the changing relationship between humans and their environment.
Engineering Marvel of the Chevril Dam
The dam's design is optimized to withstand the immense pressure of the water it holds back. The arch shape directs the water's force against the abutments, while its gravity component ensures stability. The sheer scale of the project involved vast amounts of concrete and labor, showcasing the ambition and technical capabilities of the era.
Visitors can walk along the top of the dam, offering a unique perspective on its immense size and the engineering prowess involved. The surrounding alpine landscape provides a dramatic backdrop, highlighting the dam's integration into the natural environment. It's a place where human ingenuity meets the grandeur of nature.
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