.jpg)
Cool Escapes: 5 Alpine Lakes to Swim in This Summer
Beach days beneath the peaks? Absolutely. Here are five stunning spots where you can take the plunge right in the heart of the Alps.
Beach days beneath the peaks? Absolutely. The Alps have their own hidden beaches, nestled beside high-altitude lakes and crystal-clear mountain waters, set against a dreamlike backdrop of forests, meadows, and snow-capped summits. When the summer heat arrives and the coastline becomes crowded, these cool mountain oases provide the perfect alternative. Here are five stunning spots where you can take the plunge right in the heart of the Alps.
Why choose the mountains for your summer swim?
Swimming in the mountains isn’t just about cooling off — it’s about immersing yourself in pristine nature. Far from the crowded beaches of the coast, Alpine swimming lakes offer more tranquil surroundings, often purer waters, and truly awe-inspiring views.
It’s also the ideal way to combine outdoor adventure with relaxation. Think hiking, water sports, and lakeside leisure in a single location. Many nautical bases provide unique activities, family-friendly entertainment, and picnic spots, making them a great option for all ages.
1. Lac de Montriond - Morzine (Haute-Savoie)
Nestled in the Aulps Valley, just a stone’s throw from Morzine, Lac de Montriond is one of Haute-Savoie’s largest natural mountain lakes. Surrounded by dramatic cliffs and tall pines, it exudes a serene atmosphere that many liken to the lakes of Canada.
What sets it apart? Its waters are cooler than most — a welcome relief on hot summer days. In summer, a supervised swimming area is set up, along with a paddling pool for your little ones.
It’s not all about swimming, though. You can rent a paddleboard or canoe, walk the scenic loop around the lake, or simply enjoy a picnic with your feet in the grass. It’s a peaceful escape for anyone in search of a refreshing, easy-to-reach mountain beach.
► Getting there: 5 km from Morzine — free parking nearby
► Top tip: Arrive early to enjoy the stillness and watch the mountains mirrored on the lake’s surface.
2. Biotope lake - Combloux (Haute-Savoie)
Known as the “Pearl of Mont Blanc,” Combloux has no shortage of charm, but it’s the biotope lake, the first of its kind in France, that draws in nature lovers and fans of gentle wild swimming.
This eco-friendly lake uses filtering plants instead of chemicals to keep its water pure and crystal clear. With breathtaking panoramic views of the Mont Blanc massif, every swim feels almost surreal.
The site features grassy lawns, small beaches, and shallow paddling areas for children. In summer, the water can reach up to 26°C, and visitor numbers are limited to ensure peace and maintain water quality.
► Getting there: Right in the centre of Combloux village
► Top tip: Book your time slot online — entry is limited to keep the experience calm and comfortable.
3. Nautical Base - Tignes (Savoie)
Perched at an altitude of 2,100 metres, the Lac de Tignes is home to one of the highest nautical bases in the Alps. Swimming here feels almost surreal, surrounded by postcard-perfect alpine scenery.
In summer, the lake transforms into a huge aquatic playground offering paddleboarding, canoeing, pedalos, and even high-speed slides that launch you into the lake – not for the faint-hearted! A designated, supervised swimming area ensures safety. It’s the perfect spot to combine refreshment, adrenaline, and breathtaking nature.
► Getting there: Tignes-le-Lac village centre — free pedestrian access
► Top tip: In July and August, many activities are included with the MyTignes card (special rates available when you book your stay with Cimalpes).
4. Bioogical Swimming - Chantemerle et La Salle-les-Alpes (Serre Chevalier, Hautes-Alpes)
Tucked in the Guidane valley, two bio-swimming spots have been created in the heart of Serre-Chevalier: one in Chantemerle, the other in La Salle-les-Alpes. Fed by pure, naturally filtered mountain water, these chlorine-free pools invite you for a swim perfectly in tune with nature.
Thoughtfully designed as tranquil green havens, these spots feature soft grassy areas, kid-friendly play zones, gentle sloping shores, and on-site dining — everything you need to relax and unwind.
► Getting there: Just a few minutes’ walk from the centres of Chantemerle and La Salle villages
► Top tip: Opt for late afternoon swims to enjoy peaceful waters and watch the mountains glow red under the setting sun.
Photo credit: © Paul Bréchu - Office de Tourisme Serre Chevalier
Discover the Hautes-Alpes and their hidden gems:
5. Paddleboarding on the Lac de Saint-Guérin - Beaufortain (Savoie)
The Lac de Saint-Guérin is one of the Beaufortain region’s hidden gems. Less crowded than larger large Alpine lakes, it captivates visitors with its wild charm and stunning scenery.
Swimming isn’t advised here — the water stays chilly and there’s no lifeguard on duty — but it’s a fantastic spot for paddleboarding or canoeing in breathtaking surroundings. Glide across turquoise waters framed by forests and alpine peaks, and savour the quiet magic of the moment, far from the hustle and bustle. A lakeside food truck offers the perfect excuse for a tasty break without losing sight of the view. Afterwards, set off on one of the many hiking trails that begin right by the shore.
► Getting there: 30 minutes from Arêches — narrow but panoramic road
► Top tip: Rent a paddleboard or canoe for a peaceful morning outing.
Stay in Les Saisies:
