In this guide
Why visit Lac Besson?
Lac Besson is one of the most popular summer walks in Alpe d'Huez. Set on the lakes plateau, it combines relatively easy access with a true high-mountain feel and sweeping views over the Oisans, Belledonne and Grandes Rousses ranges.
It works just as well for a short visit as for a longer hike linking several lakes. Come to walk, take in the scenery, have a picnic, photograph the reflections on the water or carry on to Lac Noir, Lac Faucille and Lac Carrelet.
How to get to Lac Besson
1. On foot from Alpe d'Huez
The official route starts from the Grandes Rousses area. You can set off at around 2,100 metres, near the top station of the first section of the Pic Blanc gondola. The official walk is graded easy and takes around 1 h 30 one way.
Part of the route runs alongside the Route des Lacs. The path crosses alpine pastures and part of the ski area. The going is generally steady, but altitude, sun and wind can make it more tiring than you expect.
2. By lift
When they are running in summer, the lifts let you gain height and save effort. Check opening times, pedestrian tickets and access conditions on the day, as they vary with the operating calendar and the weather.
3. By free summer shuttle
In summer, the resort runs a free shuttle to Lac Besson (from 27 June to 30 August in 2026). The service runs daily and replaces access by private car, to protect the natural environment.
4. By car
While the shuttle is running, private vehicles are not allowed to drive to Lac Besson. Outside that period, access may depend on snow cover, roadworks, site protection measures or local decisions.
Which route should you choose around Lac Besson?
| Option | Level | Approx. distance / time | Who is it for? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alpe d'Huez → Lac Besson | Easy | Around 1 h 30 one way | Walkers who want to start from the resort |
| Lac Besson loop | Easy | Around 3.5 km and 1 h 30 depending on start point | Families and gentle walks |
| 4.5 km loop | Easy | Around 1 h 40 | Exploring the plateau and its views |
| Multi-lake loop | Easy to moderate | Around 6.5 km and 2 h 30 depending on route | A half-day outing |
| Lac Besson + Lac Noir | Moderate depending on start point | Varies | Walkers keen to go further |
An easy route from the Grandes Rousses area
From the resort, head to the Grandes Rousses area on foot or using whichever lifts are open.
Stick to the waymarked footpath and keep off the mountain bike trails.
Walk at a steady pace and close any gates behind you.
Use the picnic area or a suitable spot for your break, without trampling the wetlands.
Return the same way or carry on to Lac Noir and the other lakes if your group, the time and the weather allow.
Visiting Lac Besson with children
Lac Besson is often billed as a family outing, but success depends on where you start and how old the children are. Arriving by shuttle or by lift makes it much easier, whereas walking all the way from the resort is a proper hike.
- Choose the shortest option for a first outing.
- Set off in the morning to avoid the heat and late-afternoon storms.
- Bring water, snacks and plan several breaks.
- Give every child a cap, sunglasses and sun cream.
- Don't let children go near the water or rocky sections on their own.
Picnics, swimming, fishing and respecting the site
Can you picnic there?
Yes. Lac Besson is a great picnic spot, with a table and a relaxation area. It can be quite windy, though. Take all your rubbish home and avoid light packaging that could blow away.
Can you swim?
No. Swimming is not allowed. The ban protects both visitors and a fragile high-altitude environment.
Can you fish?
Fishing is allowed under certain conditions. You'll need a national fishing permit and a specific local permit. Lac Besson is a category 1 water with special regulations, particularly on the number and size of fish you can keep.
Dogs, livestock and the environment
The plateau is used for summer grazing. Keep your dog on a lead, walk around herds and don't run towards livestock guardian dogs. Stick to the waymarked paths, protect the wetland plants and respect any local restrictions.
What to bring
- Walking boots or shoes with good grip.
- A windproof jacket and a warm layer, even in midsummer.
- Full sun protection: sunglasses, hat and sun cream.
- Plenty of water and an energy snack.
- An offline map or the official trail map.
- A charged phone and a small power bank for longer outings.
What's the best time of day?
Mornings often bring soft light, more comfortable temperatures and more settled weather. Late afternoon can be stunning for photos, but you'll need to know exactly when the last shuttle or lift leaves.
When is the best time of year?
When the route is passable depends on the snowmelt and current conditions. Early in the season, patches of snow may linger. In summer, the access options and the shuttle make the visit easy. In September it's quieter, but services may be reduced.
Map of Lac Besson and the lakes plateau
Check before you go