Lac Vert: An Emerald Jewel in the French Alps

Discover Lac Vert: A stunning emerald lake nestled in the French Alps near Névache, perfect for a family hike and breathtaking views.

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Lac vert

Lac Vert, or Green Lake, is a picturesque alpine lake nestled in the Vallée Étroite near Névache, in the French Hautes-Alpes. Its distinctive green hue comes from algae on the lakebed and its shallow depth. Surrounded by forest and dotted with fallen trees, it's a serene spot for a family-friendly hike.

A brief summary to Lac vert

Lac Vert, Névache, FR

Monday 12 am-12 am
Tuesday 12 am-12 am
Wednesday 12 am-12 am
Thursday 12 am-12 am
Friday 12 am-12 am
Saturday 12 am-12 am
Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

Arrive early, especially during peak season, to secure parking at Hameau des Granges, as it can get crowded.
Wear appropriate footwear for hiking, as the trails can be uneven and rocky in places.
Bring a picnic to enjoy by the lake, but be sure to pack out all your trash to preserve the natural environment.
Check the weather forecast before you go, as conditions in the mountains can change rapidly.
Note that the signage to the lake may be in Italian ('Lago Verde') due to the area's history.

Getting There

Walking

From the parking area at Hameau des Granges, follow the signs towards Lac Vert (Lago Verde). The trail leads through the village and into the forest. The path is well-marked but can be uneven in places. The walk to the lake is a relatively easy hike, taking approximately 1 hour. Be mindful of the altitude and take breaks as needed.
Public Transport

During peak season (July-August), a shuttle operates from Pian del Colle (Italy) to Granges de la Vallée Étroite. From Granges, follow the walking directions to Lac Vert. The shuttle costs €5 for a round trip for adults and is free for children under 6. Check the current schedule as the service may have limited availability.
Driving

From Névache, take the D1T road towards Col de l'Échelle. Then, follow the signs for Vallée Étroite. Continue on the narrow road to the parking area at Hameau des Granges. Parking costs €3 per day during the summer. Be aware that the road to Vallée Étroite may be closed to traffic at certain times during peak season, with shuttle services available from Pian del Colle.

Discover more about Lac vert

Lac Vert, a stunning alpine lake located at an altitude of 1,834 meters, lies within the Vallée Étroite (Narrow Valley) in the commune of Névache, part of the Hautes-Alpes department of France. The lake's unique green coloration is attributed to the algae that thrive on its bed, combined with its shallow waters. This natural phenomenon creates a mesmerizing emerald hue that captivates visitors. Surrounded by a dense forest, Lac Vert offers a tranquil and picturesque setting. The presence of fallen trees scattered throughout the lake adds to its charm, creating interesting patterns and visual appeal. The lake's history is also intriguing; it was part of Italy until 1947 when the Treaty of Paris ceded it to France, attaching it to the commune of Névache. Despite this, the trail signage leading to the lake from the GR5-GR57 hiking trails is still often in Italian, a nod to its past. The area around Lac Vert is perfect for hiking, with trails suitable for families and experienced trekkers alike. The lake is easily accessible, making it a popular destination for those seeking a relatively easy walk with a rewarding view. The starting point for many hikes is the parking area at the Hameau des Granges in the Vallée Étroite. From there, well-marked paths lead through the forest to the lake.