Tucked away at the foot of the Aravis Range , Lac des Confins is just a few minutes from the ski resort of La Clusaz. It is one of those places that feels like a peaceful escape, without being too far off the beaten path. This little alpine lake is perfect for a scenic walk, a relaxing picnic, or just to enjoy beautiful mountain views.
A laid-back walk in the Alps
Lac des Confins sits in a natural bowl surrounded by dramatic peaks like Tête de Pelouse and Roche Perfia. You’re technically in the Bornes-Aravis massif, but let’s keep it simple, you’re in one of the prettiest corners of Haute-Savoie :). From the car park, it’s an easy loop around the lake, more of a gentle stroll than a hike. Let’s be honest, you’re not here for the workout. you’re here for the view.
Cute wooden chalets are scattered across the green meadows, cows chill out in the fields, and if you’re lucky, you’ll hear the soft sound of cowbells ringing through the valley. It’s basically straight out of a postcard.
Chilling by the Lake
The lake itself is small, just 3 hectares and a few meters deep, but it’s packed with charm. It used to be a marshy area but was expanded to create the calm lake you see today. In summer, you can grab a drink or bite to eat at one of the nearby chalets, try some fishing, or hop on a mountain bike to explore the trails.
The loop around Lac des Confins in La Clusaz isn’t really a hike, more a relaxing walk with beautiful mountain views. The lake really contrasts with the steepness of the slopes overhanging it. It is surrounded by a green landscape, dotted with old chalets, typical of the Aravis region.
What I like about this place is its peacefulness. This is a short walk, perfectly combined with another one near the Grand Bornand. In fact, the ski resort has some opened ski lifts to discover the area in Summer. You can spot plenty of hikers and paragliding enthusiasts around the La Clusaz and Le Grand-Bornand ski resorts in summer.
I even got to see my dad take off with his paraglider from a launch spot near Le Grand-Bornand. In summer, the ski lifts keep running, so you can get up high without a tough hike. Some of the mountain chalets are open too, perfect for grabbing a bite with a view.
Don’t Miss the Défi Foly!
Every spring, Lac des Confins in La Clusaz becomes the stage for the quirky Défi Foly event. Défi Foly is a wild, end-of-season event where skiers (and all sorts of costumed daredevils) launch themselves down a snowy slope and try to skim across the surface of the lake. Spoiler: most of them end up in the water. It’s hilarious, fun, and full of good vibes. Definitely worth timing your visit if you’re into local traditions.
Need-to-know info
Altitude: 1357m
Elevation: négligeable
Massif: Bornes/Aravis
Length: 45min for the loop round the lake
Address: Les Confins, 74220 LA CLUSAZ
On the way back to Annecy (12 km, 7.5 mi) stop by the side of the road to see the Menthon-Saint-Bernard Château. The medieval castle stands on a 200 metres tall rock overhanging lake Annecy. Since 1989, it has been listed as a historical landmark.
If you’re road-tripping through the Alps, don’t skip Lac des Confins in the Aravis Range. Additionally, if you’re in the area and feel like discovering another natural gem, I recommend heading to the nearby Balme-de-Thuy Waterfalls, a hidden spot with wooden walkways and a wild, alpine vibe. Check out the Balme-de-Thuy Waterfalls or Burgeat waterfall. But make sure you don’t go in the middle of summer. You might be disappointed by how little water is flowing.
