
Lac de la Sassière
A stunning turquoise alpine lake at 2460m, offering easy hikes, wildlife sightings, and breathtaking mountain vistas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Easier parking, fewer crowds

Lac de la Sassière
Best Time
Easier parking, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning turquoise alpine lake at 2460m, offering easy hikes, wildlife sightings, and breathtaking mountain vistas.
"A very beautiful and easy hike, the most complicated thing for us was parking!"

🚗 Parking Strategy
Arrive before 9:30 AM in August or visit in autumn for easier parking at Saut Dam. :car:
☀️ Shade & Hydration
No shade here! Bring water, sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses for your picnic. :umbrellawithrain_drops:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lac de la Sassière
Sassière Nature Reserve
A stunning turquoise lake at 2460m, perfect for picnics with breathtaking mountain views.

Wildlife Spotting
Bailletaz rock face
Keep an eye out for cows, marmots, and even chamois on the surrounding slopes. Binoculars recommended!

Scenic Hiking Trails
Saut Dam car park
Choose between a wide path suitable for strollers or a charming hiking trail for a memorable walk.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking Pointers
Sun Protection is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Strategy
Arrive before 9:30 AM in August or visit in autumn for easier parking at Saut Dam. :car:
☀️ Shade & Hydration
No shade here! Bring water, sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses for your picnic. :umbrellawithrain_drops:
🥾 Trail Choices
Opt for the wide path for strollers or the scenic trail for a classic hike. :hiking_boot:
🔭 Wildlife Watch
Look for marmots and chamois on the rocks. Binoculars enhance the experience! :binoculars:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Strategy
Arrive before 9:30 AM in August or visit in autumn for easier parking at Saut Dam. :car:
☀️ Shade & Hydration
No shade here! Bring water, sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses for your picnic. :umbrellawithrain_drops:
🥾 Trail Choices
Opt for the wide path for strollers or the scenic trail for a classic hike. :hiking_boot:
🔭 Wildlife Watch
Look for marmots and chamois on the rocks. Binoculars enhance the experience! :binoculars:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning turquoise waters and breathtaking mountain scenery of Lac de la Sassière, calling it an idyllic spot for a picnic. The hike is praised for being beautiful and easy, with opportunities for wildlife spotting. However, parking can be a significant challenge during peak season, and the lack of shade requires visitors to come well-prepared for sun exposure.
"Very impressive"
Alan Green
"A very beautiful and easy hike, the most complicated thing for us was parking (week of August 15, parking lot already full at 9:30 a.m.!). We understand why the walk is popular. To get to the lake, there are two options (you can choose one on the way there and the other on the way back): a wide path that is passable even with an all-terrain stroller on the left and a small hiking trail on the right. We saw cows, marmots and even chamois (visible with binoculars) on the rock face of the Bailletaz on the left as you climb. The lake behind the dam is turquoise blue, an idyllic place for a picnic. On the other hand, there is no shade at all: go equipped if the weather is nice (water, sunglasses, hat and sunscreen)."
Marine Gawron
"Very beautiful lake surrounded by snow also in summer 🙏🏻 with breathtaking views. Enough to make a nice picnic 😎"
Ludovic Surian
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common access point is the Saut Dam car park (2264m). From there, it's a hike to the lake. Be aware that the mountain road can be challenging for larger vehicles during peak hours.
Yes, there is parking at the Saut Dam, but it fills up very quickly, especially in August. Aim to arrive by 9:30 AM or consider visiting in the shoulder seasons.
You can drive to the Saut Dam car park, which is the starting point for the hike. The road leading up can be narrow and challenging, particularly for trucks and camper vans.
The hike from the Saut Dam car park is the primary way to reach the lake. You can choose between a wider, more accessible path or a narrower hiking trail.
Information on direct public transport to the Saut Dam car park is limited. It's generally recommended to drive or arrange private transport.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no entrance fees or tickets required to visit Lac de la Sassière. It's a natural reserve accessible to hikers.
Lac de la Sassière is an outdoor natural attraction and is accessible year-round during daylight hours. However, access may be affected by snow in winter.
There is no admission fee for the Sassière Nature Reserve. The focus is on enjoying the natural beauty responsibly.
While not mandatory, guided tours may be available through local Tignes tourism offices or outdoor activity providers. Check with local resources for options.
As it's a nature reserve, visitors are encouraged to stay on marked trails and not disturb wildlife. Pack out everything you pack in.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The hike is generally considered easy and beautiful, approximately 8km round trip with minimal elevation gain from the Saut Dam. You can choose a wider path or a narrower trail.
Yes, the wider path is passable with an all-terrain stroller, making it family-friendly. The scenery and wildlife spotting add to the appeal for children.
Visitors often spot cows, marmots, and even chamois on the rock faces. Binoculars are recommended for better viewing.
There are no facilities like restrooms or shops directly at the lake. It's a natural setting, so come prepared with everything you need.
Wear comfortable hiking shoes or sturdy trainers. Given the high altitude and potential for sun exposure, layers, a hat, and sunscreen are essential.
📸 📸 Photography
The turquoise lake itself is the main attraction. Capture panoramic views from the surrounding slopes and look for wildlife opportunities.
Absolutely! The combination of the vibrant blue lake, snow-capped peaks (even in summer), and dramatic rock formations offers stunning landscape photography potential.
Early morning or late afternoon light can offer softer, more dramatic lighting for your photos. Midday sun can be harsh due to the lack of shade.
Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check local rules and regulations for flying drones in nature reserves before your visit.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife photography. Don't forget extra batteries!
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Hike to the Lake
Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for the local fauna. The Sassière Nature Reserve is known for its diverse wildlife. Many visitors report seeing cows grazing peacefully, the ubiquitous and charming marmots whistling from their burrows, and if you're lucky, even elusive chamois on the rocky outcrops. Bringing binoculars can significantly enhance your wildlife spotting opportunities.
Remember that this is a high-altitude environment. While the hike itself isn't overly strenuous, the sun can be intense due to the lack of shade. Proper preparation with water, sun protection, and appropriate footwear is crucial for an enjoyable experience.
Wildlife Encounters
Beyond the marmots, keep an eye on the higher rocky slopes for chamois. These agile mountain goats are masters of their environment and can be quite shy. Spotting them often requires patience and a good pair of binoculars. The presence of cows is also common, adding to the pastoral charm of the landscape.
It's important to observe wildlife from a respectful distance and never feed them. This ensures their safety and preserves their natural behavior for future visitors. The Sassière Nature Reserve is a testament to the beauty of coexistence between humans and the natural world.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit