Lacs des Chéserys
Alpine lakes reflecting Mont Blanc, offering stunning hikes and overnight bivouac opportunities in the Aiguilles Rouges.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Lacs des Chéserys
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Alpine lakes reflecting Mont Blanc, offering stunning hikes and overnight bivouac opportunities in the Aiguilles Rouges.
"One of the most beautiful spots in the Alps! Excellent for night photography."
Reserve Your Bivouac Spot
Mandatory reservations for camping (7 PM-9 AM). Book in advance to guarantee your spot! :ticket:
Pack for All Weather
Alpine weather changes fast. Bring layers, rain gear, and sturdy hiking boots. :cloud: :boot:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Serene Lacs des Chéserys
Aiguilles Rouges Nature Reserve
Crystal-clear alpine lakes reflecting the majestic Mont Blanc massif. Perfect for photography and quiet contemplation.
Mont Blanc Views
Along the hiking trails
Unobstructed, breathtaking vistas of Mont Blanc and surrounding peaks. A photographer's dream.
Alpine Ibex Encounters
Near the camping area
Spotting wild ibex (bouquetins) against a sunset backdrop is a magical, unforgettable experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Bivouac Spot Early
Timing is Key for Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Reserve Your Bivouac Spot
Mandatory reservations for camping (7 PM-9 AM). Book in advance to guarantee your spot! :ticket:
Pack for All Weather
Alpine weather changes fast. Bring layers, rain gear, and sturdy hiking boots. :cloud: :boot:
Leave No Trace
Respect the nature reserve. Pack out everything you pack in. :recycle:
Cable Car Shortcut
Take two gondolas up to save hiking time. Hike from the top station is ~1h 45m. :cable_car:
Tips
from all over the internet
Reserve Your Bivouac Spot
Mandatory reservations for camping (7 PM-9 AM). Book in advance to guarantee your spot! :ticket:
Pack for All Weather
Alpine weather changes fast. Bring layers, rain gear, and sturdy hiking boots. :cloud: :boot:
Leave No Trace
Respect the nature reserve. Pack out everything you pack in. :recycle:
Cable Car Shortcut
Take two gondolas up to save hiking time. Hike from the top station is ~1h 45m. :cable_car:
Capture the Magic
Ideal for night photography. Consider moving around animals for clutter-free shots. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking panorama and spectacular natural beauty of Lacs des Chéserys, calling it one of the most beautiful spots in the Alps. The challenging trails and stunning views of Mont Blanc are consistently praised. However, the area can get very crowded during peak summer season, and while rules are generally respected, the sheer volume of visitors can detract from the serenity.
"Great place with an amazing panorama, with quite some space for tents but very crowded in the summer. Everyone seems to respect the rules so no random idiots here. Will come back in off season for sure."
Damian
"One of the most beautiful spots in the alps! Excellent for night photography. If you take up two Gondels you can save yourself a long hike. Hike from the last cable car is around 1 hour 45 minutes."
Benjamin Barakat
"Worth the hike up, amazing view of the lake and Mont Blanc."
Tomer Gal
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way is to take two cable cars from Chamonix towards the Aiguilles Rouges. From the top station, it's about a 1 hour 45 minute hike to the Lacs des Chéserys. Alternatively, you can hike the entire way, which is a more strenuous option.
The hike from the top cable car station is considered moderately challenging, with an elevation gain. The full hike from the valley is significantly more demanding. 
No, private vehicles are not permitted to drive directly to the lakes. Access is primarily via hiking trails or cable cars.
The lakes are situated at an altitude of approximately 2100 meters (6890 feet).
While specific regulations can vary, generally dogs are allowed on trails in the Chamonix area, but must be kept on a leash. Always check local signage.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entry fee for the lakes themselves, but you will need to purchase tickets for the cable cars if you choose to use them as a shortcut.
Yes, bivouacking (wild camping) is permitted, but with strict rules: tents can only be set up between 7 PM and 9 AM, for one night only, and a reservation is mandatory.
Reservations are mandatory and must be made in advance. Specific booking platforms or contact details should be checked on local tourism or park websites.
The nature reserve is generally accessible during daylight hours for hiking. Camping hours are restricted to 7 PM to 9 AM.
Access to the Aiguilles Rouges Nature Reserve is free, but you will need to pay for cable car transport if you opt for that route.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The primary activities are hiking, photography, enjoying the stunning alpine scenery, and overnight bivouacking.
Absolutely! It's renowned for its spectacular views, reflections, and opportunities for night photography. Keep an eye out for wildlife like ibex.
Bring plenty of water, snacks, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), a camera, and wear sturdy hiking shoes. Layers are essential as the weather can change quickly.
There are no facilities directly at the lakes. You'll need to be self-sufficient. Plan accordingly for restrooms and food.
Swimming is generally discouraged in alpine lakes to protect the fragile ecosystem. It's best to admire the beauty from the shore.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer magical light for landscape photography. The 'golden hour' and 'blue hour' are particularly stunning. Night photography is also excellent here.
You might be lucky enough to spot alpine ibex (bouquetins), chamois, and various alpine birds.
Calm conditions are best for clear reflections. Early mornings or evenings when there's less wind often provide the most mirror-like surfaces.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A tripod is essential for low-light conditions and long exposures. Don't forget extra batteries!
Move around the animal to find the best vantage point that isolates it from distracting elements in the background.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While camping is allowed, the strict reservation system and limited overnight window (7 PM-9 AM) might be challenging with very young children. Consider a day trip instead, focusing on enjoying the views and a picnic. The stunning scenery and potential wildlife sightings (like ibex) can be captivating for kids.
Remember to emphasize Leave No Trace principles to teach children about respecting nature.📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 For landscape shots, a wide-angle lens and tripod are essential. Don't miss the opportunity for night photography; the dark skies reveal the Milky Way beautifully.Wildlife photography is also a major draw. Keep an eye out for alpine ibex (bouquetins), which are often seen near the camping areas, especially at sunset.
Remember the tip to move around the animal to achieve a clutter-free background for your shots. The changing light throughout the day provides endless opportunities for stunning images.🏕️ Budget Travelers & Backpackers
This allows for an overnight stay in a spectacular alpine setting without the cost of accommodation.Pack your own food and water to save money. The experience of waking up to mountain views and hiking in pristine nature is invaluable. Remember to pack light but efficiently, as you'll be carrying everything on your back. This is a prime example of experiencing the Alps on a budget while still enjoying world-class scenery.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Bivouac Experience
This system helps manage the impact on the fragile ecosystem and ensures a more organized experience for visitors. Remember to pack light but bring essentials for a comfortable night in the mountains.Many visitors describe the experience as magical, with some even reporting encounters with wild ibex (bouquetins) during sunset.
The silence of the mountains at night, followed by a sunrise over the peaks, is a reward for the effort. It's a chance to truly immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Aiguilles Rouges massif. Ensure you have a good headlamp for navigating after dark and for setting up your tent. Leave No Trace principles are paramount here. Pack out all your trash, avoid making excessive noise, and respect the natural surroundings. The goal is to preserve this stunning location for future generations. The community on Reddit often emphasizes the importance of respecting these rules to maintain access to such beautiful wild spots.
Hiking Routes and Accessibility
The trails themselves offer spectacular panoramic views of the Mont Blanc massif and the surrounding valleys.
It's important to note that the May 1st long weekend can still see snow at higher altitudes, so checking trail conditions before you go is advisable, especially if visiting in the shoulder seasons.
Photography Hotspots
Early mornings and late evenings, during the 'golden hour,' offer the most dramatic light and softest shadows, ideal for capturing these mirror-like surfaces.Beyond the landscapes, the area is known for its wildlife encounters. Photographers have a good chance of spotting alpine ibex (bouquetins) grazing near the lakes, particularly around sunset. Capturing these majestic animals against the backdrop of the alpine scenery is a highlight for many visitors.
A key tip for wildlife photography is to move around the animal to find a clean background, avoiding distracting elements.For astrophotographers, the remote location and minimal light pollution make it an exceptional spot for night photography. The Milky Way can be clearly visible, offering breathtaking shots of the cosmos above the mountains.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit