The 3 Most Beautiful Places to Go Bivouacking in the French Alps
If you’re looking for amazing bivouac spots in the French Alps, look no further! This week, we’re exploring three stunning locations that will offer breathtaking views and unforgettable memories. They are all easily accessible, and for the more adventurous, they can serve as the first step before continuing on a longer trek. Pack your backpack, put on your hiking boots, and embark on this memorable adventure. The mountains are waiting for you!
Lacs des Chéserys in the Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Valley
In the heart of the Mont-Blanc massif lie the beautiful Lacs des Chéserys, a true paradise for nature lovers.
Imagine opening your tent in the early morning to discover the majestic reflection of the mountains in the calm waters of the lake, or watching the sunrise over the Mont-Blanc massif. You’ll be able to admire the Mer de Glace, the imposing Mont Blanc, as well as the peaks of the Drus. As is often the case in the mountains, bivouacking is only allowed between 7 PM and 8 AM. Be sure to check the regulations in advance, as they can change from year to year. Contact the Aiguilles Rouges Nature Reserve before your trip to inform them and confirm the possibility of spending the night in this area.
To reach this bivouac site in the Alps, you can start from Argentière at 1,274 meters above sea level. You will need to climb about 900 meters over a distance of 9.6 kilometers to reach the lakes at an altitude of 2,159 meters.
You can also follow the GRP Tour du Pays du Mont-Blanc trail from the parking lot at 1,461 meters at Col des Montets. Depending on your pace, it should take between 2 and 3 hours of hiking to reach your “multi-star” hotel for the night.
Along the way, you might have the chance to spot some ibex. Once you arrive, you’re free to choose your bivouac spot. You can set up on the grass around the lake, but the most rewarding experience is finding a spot that allows you to enjoy both the view of the lake and the majestic Mont-Blanc massif. A truly extraordinary experience! From there, enjoy the incredible spectacle of the sunset.
The next day, if you wish to continue your journey, you can reach Lac Blanc fairly quickly. That’s actually a great reason to bivouac at the Lacs des Chéserys: you can discover Lac Blanc early in the morning before the other hikers arrive. Download the Whympr app to explore the different trails leading to the lakes.
Bivouacking in the Alps at Lac des Cerces in Savoie
Located in the heart of the Cerces massif, this lake is an invitation to wonder. The view is breathtaking, with the Grand Galibier and the majestic Aiguilles d’Arves in sight. This bivouac spot is accessible to all adventurers seeking authenticity, whether young or old.
To reach Lac des Cerces, perched at 2,410 meters, several routes are possible. If you want to enjoy an easy hike with children, you can start from the Mottets parking lot at 1,980 meters. The trail is well-marked and the ascent is gradual. This small path through the massif offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks, and as you gain altitude, you’ll be treated to increasingly spectacular panoramas.
It takes about 1 to 2 hours of walking to reach the lake, but it all depends on your pace and that of your little group. Once there, everyone will be rewarded with an extraordinary panoramic view. And if the children manage to stay quiet, you might even catch a glimpse of some marmots.
Upon arrival, you’ll find yourself facing a crystal-clear body of water. Set up your tent near the lake to enjoy the serenity of the place—but not too close, to avoid the mosquitoes.
Since this bivouac in the Alps is easily accessible, you might feel like exploring a bit more. In that case, climb to the top of Collet de la Fourche (2,678 meters) overlooking the lake. The view is absolutely stunning! If you wish to hike longer in the area, you can also continue the next day by visiting two other lakes: Lac Rond and Lac du Grand Ban.
You can find these routes on the Whympr app.
Lac Fourchu in Oisans, Isère
Lac Fourchu (2,050 meters), named for its Y-shaped form, is simply magnificent! Just an hour’s drive from Grenoble, this spot offers unparalleled views of the most beautiful peaks of the Écrins, including La Meije, as well as the Aiguilles d’Arves.
To reach this lake, you can choose the route starting from the Poursollet parking lot (1,640 meters) and follow the GR50. In 1 to 2 hours of walking, depending on your pace, you’ll arrive at this breathtaking scenery, at the foot of Taillefer, with the Vercors massif right in front of you. Perfect for a bivouac in the Alps, whether solo or with family!
To preserve the ecosystem, tenting areas are now limited, so make sure to check the rules before setting up anywhere. Also, remember that campfires are prohibited in this area. We invite you to read this article if you want to learn more about the regulations regarding fires. Between the spectacle of the sunset over the ridges and stargazing under the Milky Way, your evening promises to be unforgettable.
Before that, you might want to explore the Plateau des Lacs (aptly named, as there are many lakes). It’s a great way to work up an appetite. Let yourself be enchanted by the wild nature of this massif! To navigate, consult the IGN maps available on Whympr.
These three bivouac spots in the French Alps are stunning and easily accessible. They will delight anyone who loves spending the night in nature. However, keep in mind that the environment here is fragile, which requires special responsibility. Respect the local flora and fauna, and be sure to follow Leave No Trace principles by taking all your waste with you and minimizing your impact on the area. Wishing you starry nights!
