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Lac de Monteynard-Avignonet: A Turquoise Jewel in the French Alps

Discover Lac de Monteynard-Avignonet: a turquoise paradise for windsurfing, hiking, and breathtaking alpine views in the heart of the French Alps.

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Lac de Monteynard-Avignonet, an artificial lake created in 1962, is a stunning destination nestled in the Isère department of France. Known for its turquoise waters and consistent thermal winds, it's a haven for watersports enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The lake also features two impressive Himalayan footbridges, offering a unique hiking experience.

A brief summary to Sivom Landscaping Lake Monteynard

  • Monday 10:30 am-6:30 pm
  • Tuesday 10:30 am-6:30 pm
  • Wednesday 10:30 am-6:30 pm
  • Thursday 10:30 am-6:30 pm
  • Friday 10:30 am-6:30 pm
  • Saturday 10:30 am-6:30 pm
  • Sunday 10:30 am-6:30 pm

Local tips

  • Book the La Mira boat crossing in advance, especially during peak season, as places are limited and online booking is required.
  • Pack layers, as the area can be windy and the weather can change quickly.
  • Wear sturdy shoes for the Himalayan footbridges hike, as the trail can be muddy and slippery in wet weather.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy at one of the designated picnic areas around the lake, offering stunning views.
  • Consider visiting in the afternoon, as the thermal winds typically pick up around 1 PM, creating ideal conditions for windsurfing and kitesurfing.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Grenoble, take the A51 motorway towards Sisteron. Exit at Sinard (exit 13) and follow the directions to Treffort and Lac de Monteynard. Parking is available at Combettes, the beach, or La Salette. Parking fees apply from May to October. Expect to pay around €4-€6 for a day.

  • Public Transport

    From Grenoble, take a train to Monestier-de-Clermont. From there, local buses may offer connections to Treffort, but options can be limited. Check schedules in advance. Alternatively, consider a bus from Avignon to Grenoble, then connect to local transport. Bus tickets from Avignon to Grenoble range from €18-€25.

  • Walking

    From the parking areas in Treffort, follow the well-marked trails towards the lake and the La Mira boat landing stage. The hike to the Ebron footbridge is a popular option, offering a shorter walk with scenic views. Allow approximately 1-2 hours for a round trip to the Ebron bridge from Treffort.

  • Boat

    To complete the Himalayan Footbridges loop, take the La Mira boat from Treffort to Mayres-Savel. The boat operates generally from May 1st to September 30th, but check the La Mira website for the current schedule. A one-way ticket costs €8 for adults (over 4 years old) and €7 for a reduced fare. Booking online in advance is essential.

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Discover more about Sivom Landscaping Lake Monteynard

Lac de Monteynard-Avignonet, an artificial reservoir created in 1962 by the Électricité de France (EDF), is a captivating destination in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. The lake was formed by damming the Drac river to supply a hydroelectric power station and stretches for 10 kilometers, reaching depths of up to 115 meters. Situated 25 km south of Grenoble, it separates the Trièves and Matheysine valleys, offering a blend of natural beauty and thrilling activities. The lake's turquoise waters are framed by mountains, creating a picturesque setting for a variety of activities. It is renowned as one of the windiest lakes in Europe, second only to Lake Garda in Italy, making it a prime location for windsurfing, kitesurfing, and wingfoiling. The consistent thermal winds provide ideal conditions for both beginners and experienced wind sport enthusiasts. Beyond watersports, Lac de Monteynard-Avignonet offers unique hiking opportunities with its Himalayan footbridges. These two suspension bridges, spanning the Drac and Ebron rivers, provide thrilling crossings with stunning views. The footbridges are part of a 12.5-kilometer hiking loop around the lake, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding massifs of L'Oisan, Vercors, and Belledonne. The full loop, including a boat trip, takes around 4.5 hours to complete. Visitors can also enjoy boat tours on La Mira, which offers scenic cruises showcasing the lake's diverse landscapes. The tours provide a relaxing way to appreciate the natural beauty and learn about the lake's history and ecology. Swimming is generally prohibited in the lake due to high navigation, but the beach of Treffort is an exception where swimming is tolerated near the shore.

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