Lake Gaillands (Lac des Gaillands)

Overview

Lake Gaillands is a stunning artificial lake located in the heart of the French Alps, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. It's a popular spot for hiking, picnicking, and water sports during the summer months.

The lake is part of a hydroelectric system and offers a unique blend of natural beauty and engineering marvels.

Lake Hiking Water Sports

Location

Address

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

Neighborhood: Mont-Blanc Area

Coordinates

45.920500, 6.869100

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM

tuesday 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM

wednesday 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM

thursday 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM

friday 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM

saturday 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM

sunday 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Admission

Adults

Free

Children

Free

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

June-August

Best Time of Day

Morning

Cooler temperatures and fewer tourists

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

2 hours

Recommended

4-5 hours

Full Experience

Full day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

Mild

• Wildflowers
• Water sports preparation

summer

Warm

• Swimming
• Boat rentals

autumn

Cool

• Fall foliage
• Photography opportunities

winter

Cold

• Frozen lake
• Winter sports

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Check weather conditions
Bring appropriate clothing
Book activities in advance

What to Bring

essential

ID Water Sun protection

seasonal

Winter jacket Umbrella

not allowed

Drones Glass containers

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Moderate

• Altitude sickness
• Slippery surfaces

Medical facilities: First aid available on-site

Payment Information

Accepted

Cash, Credit/Debit cards

Currency

Euro

Typical Costs

entry $0

parking $5

food $10-$20

activities $10-$50

Dress Code

Casual, comfortable, Layered clothing, hiking shoes, Comfortable walking shoes, Inappropriate clothing

Booking Tips

• 1-2 weeks
• Official website
• 48 hours
• Available for popular activities

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Chamonix App

Size: 30 MB

Features: Maps, Activity bookings, Weather updates

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Nearby cafes

Charging Stations: Visitor center, Picnic areas

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Geneva International Airport

Distance: 88 km

Travel Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Taxi

$150 1 hour 15 min

Public transport

$25 2 hours

From City Center

Distance: 3 km

Bus

$2 10 min

Taxi

$10 5 min

Bicycle

Free 15 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Stunning natural beauty, part of the local heritage

Historical Significance: Built for hydroelectric power, integral to the region's development

Insider Tips

Visit early for empty trails
Best local food at the nearby mountain huts
Free entry, but donations appreciated

Local Recommendations

• Try local cheese at the nearby farms
• Visit the Chamonix town center for dining
• Ask locals for hidden hiking trails

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Bonjour

thank_you Merci

where_is Où est

how_much Combien

beautiful Magnifique

ticket Billet

Guide Languages: French, English, German

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Lake viewpoint

Best Time: Sunset

Tips: Wide angle for the lake and mountains

Result: Breathtaking landscape

#LakeGaillands #Chamonix #FrenchAlps

Photography Rules

allowed areas All outdoor areas

prohibited areas None

flash photography Allowed

commercial photography Permit needed

drone policy Allowed with permit

tripod policy Allowed

selfie sticks Allowed

Nearby Attractions

Aiguille du Midi

Distance: 5 km

Walking: 1 hour

Type: Mountain peak

Mer de Glace

Distance: 10 km

Walking: 2 hours

Type: Glacier

Chamonix Town Center