Chamonix Activity Report: 11th August 2005
At the foot of the Chamonix Valley, tucked up in the Plateau d'Assy lies Lac Vert. It is one of the few beautiful lakes that you can reach by car – most involve some exertive leg power - and so can be enjoyed by anyone and everyone. It is well signposted from the towns of Sallanches and Passy and at 1300m involves some steep, winding mountain roads with spectacular views.
The brochures describe the lake as an ‘emerald in a verdant jewel case' and it is wonderfully picturesque – crystal clear, emerald water edged with forest trees and a backdrop of mountain tips. There is a walkway around the perimeter of the lake with a number of benches for you to sit and take in the views. There isn't really anywhere to roll out the picnic blanket & soak up the sun around the edge of the lake itself, however you can tuck yourself away amongst the trees or find a large rock to perch on. I'm not sure whether swimming in the lake is allowed as no one ventured into the water whilst we were there – perhaps it is just too cold
Despite being able to park your car within meters of it, Lac Vert manages not to have an overly touristy feel. It maintains a sense of being in a nature reserve and there are many information boards strategically placed to inform you about the local flora.
Just opposite the lake is a restaurant that boasts some fantastic views of Mt Blanc and its surrounding peaks – well worth taking a coffee or lunch here if you can sit outside.
1km before you reach the lake you will pass through the Plateau d'Assy where you can experience paragliding, pony trekking and other activities. You can also take a guided tour around the Notre Dame de Toute Grace church – its most distinguishing feature being that during the mid-20th Century it was decorated by some of the most famous painters of the time; namely Chagall, Leger, Matisse, Bonard, Bracque and Rouault. Sadly, we didn't learn about this artistic gem until after our trip so we will definitely be heading back sometime soon!
Piste Maps for Chamonix (pdf format), Les Houches (jpg format), Cross-country skiing (pdf format), and Mountain-bike trails (pdf format)
Current status for opening of Pistes & Lifts
Chamonix Webcam Index
Useful Links
Swiss Federal Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research
French Avalanche Research Institute
Meteo France - Mountain weather and avalanche conditions bulletins (in French)
Henry's Avalanche Talk - popular avalanche training sessions based in French Alps as well as translation of current avalanche conditions
PisteHors.com - Backcountry Skiing and Snowboarding News in English for the French Alps. Excellent coverage of avalanche safety and advice
Additional snow and weather information provided, with thanks, by meteo.chamonix.com and the Tourist Office