
Lac du Combal Val d'Isère
A high-altitude lake in Val d'Isère's Veny Valley, known for its stunning turquoise waters and surrounding peaks. Accessible via a scenic trail.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Appreciate nature's nuances

Lac du Combal Val d'Isère
Best Time
Appreciate nature's nuances

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A high-altitude lake in Val d'Isère's Veny Valley, known for its stunning turquoise waters and surrounding peaks. Accessible via a scenic trail.
"A picturesque lake with waters offering all shades of turquoise, immersed in a valley surrounded by mountains."

Shuttle Bus Savvy
Use the shuttle from La Visaille to skip the steep asphalt climb! :bus:
Footwear Focus
Sturdy shoes are a must for the varied terrain, even on the 'easy' trail. :athletic_shoe:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Alpine Lake
Lac du Combal
A picturesque lake at 1957m, reflecting stunning turquoise hues amidst a valley of peaks and glaciers.

Veny Valley Scenery
Surrounding Lac du Combal
Immerse yourself in an open, suggestive alpine landscape with grassy patches and glacial tributaries.

Family-Friendly Trail
Path from La Visaille
An accessible 3km trail, ideal for families, offering beautiful mountain air and regenerating tranquility.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing Lac du Combal
Understanding the Lake's State
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Shuttle Bus Savvy
Use the shuttle from La Visaille to skip the steep asphalt climb! :bus:
Footwear Focus
Sturdy shoes are a must for the varied terrain, even on the 'easy' trail. :athletic_shoe:
Pack for All Weather
Mountain weather changes fast! Layers are key. :cloud:
Hydration is Key
Bring plenty of water, especially for the uphill sections. :droplet:
Tips
from all over the internet
Shuttle Bus Savvy
Use the shuttle from La Visaille to skip the steep asphalt climb! :bus:
Footwear Focus
Sturdy shoes are a must for the varied terrain, even on the 'easy' trail. :athletic_shoe:
Pack for All Weather
Mountain weather changes fast! Layers are key. :cloud:
Hydration is Key
Bring plenty of water, especially for the uphill sections. :droplet:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Lac du Combal for its stunning alpine scenery and beautiful turquoise lake, making it an ideal spot for families and nature lovers. While the trail can be steep, the option of a shuttle bus and the tranquil atmosphere make it a worthwhile visit. Some note the lake's appearance can vary due to glacial melt.
"A mountain lake nestled in the stunning natural setting of the Veny Valley. Unfortunately, the lake is disappearing. Its colors are beautiful at the highest point, but elsewhere it's very muddy. The trail is easy, suitable for families. I recommend a visit."
Paci
"Very open and suggestive alpine landscape, surrounded by peaks and glaciers. In summer, often a bit crowded: in spring especially you can really appreciate it in all its nuances and in its expressive quiet of uncontaminated nature, rich in flora and fauna not always evident to everyone but extraordinary..
I remember that it is not a "location", and that the "lake" is not disappearing. Unfortunately it is the nearby glaciers that are retreating and melting more and more. But it is precisely (in addition to some internal springs) their melting waters that feed it. So it will remain as long as the glaciers remain"
Antonella (Anto)
"Combal Lake offers a wonderful walk surrounded by nature, ideal also for families with small children. The beauty of the mountain landscape and the fresh and clean air of the mountains offer a regenerating and relaxing experience, which allows you to recharge your batteries and enjoy the tranquility of uncontaminated nature."
Martina Galasso
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The primary access is via a track from La Visaille in Val Veny. This path is about 3 km long and is closed to traffic. For a less strenuous journey, consider taking the shuttle bus from La Visaille, which drops you off higher up, closer to the lake.
The initial section of the track is asphalted and can be quite steep, which some visitors find challenging.
The path is closed to regular vehicle traffic. However, a shuttle bus service operates from La Visaille during peak season to transport visitors closer to the lake.
The hike typically starts from the La Visaille parking area in Val Veny.
Yes, there is parking available at La Visaille, which is the usual starting point for the trail and shuttle bus.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are no entrance fees or tickets required to visit Lac du Combal itself. Access to the trail and the lake is generally free.
While specific pricing can vary, the shuttle bus service from La Visaille typically has a fee. It's advisable to check local information for current rates.
Lac du Combal is a natural outdoor attraction and is accessible year-round during daylight hours. However, the shuttle bus service operates seasonally.
Generally, there is no admission fee for the Veny Valley itself, but parking at La Visaille might incur charges during peak times.
While the lake is accessible in winter, the trail conditions can be challenging due to snow and ice. The shuttle bus service is also not operational during winter.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Enjoy a leisurely walk along the trail, take in the stunning alpine scenery, and appreciate the unique colors of the lake. It's also a great spot for a picnic.
Yes, the trail is considered suitable for families, especially if you utilize the shuttle bus to reduce the uphill walking distance.
The area is rich in alpine flora and fauna. While not always obvious, keep an eye out for various mountain plants and wildlife.
There is a refuge near the lake that typically offers refreshments and facilities for visitors.
The entire valley offers picturesque views. Look for spots along the lake's edge and higher vantage points for panoramic shots of the lake and surrounding peaks.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a refuge located near the lake that serves food and drinks, offering a place to rest and refuel.
Absolutely! Lac du Combal is a beautiful spot for a picnic. Many visitors bring their own food to enjoy amidst the stunning scenery.
The refuge typically offers traditional mountain cuisine, including local dishes and refreshments.
During peak season, it might be a good idea to book a table at the refuge, especially if you plan to dine during busy meal times.
You'll find grocery stores in the nearby towns like Courmayeur or Val Veny before heading up to the lake. It's best to stock up on picnic supplies beforehand.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon often provides the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. The turquoise colors of the lake are particularly striking during these times.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive alpine scenery. A polarizing filter can help enhance the colors of the water and sky.
The entire area around the lake offers beautiful perspectives. Try framing shots with the surrounding peaks as a backdrop or capturing the reflections in the water.
Drone regulations can vary by region and national park. It's essential to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone.
The vibrant turquoise water, the dramatic mountain backdrop, the reflections on the lake's surface, and the surrounding meadows are all highly photogenic.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶 Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Nature of Lac du Combal
The lake is fed by the melting waters of nearby glaciers. As these glaciers retreat due to climate change, the water source is affected, leading to fluctuations in water levels and potentially a more muddy appearance in certain areas, especially outside of the spring season when glacial melt is at its peak. Despite these changes, the surrounding alpine landscape, with its grassy meadows and glacial tributaries, remains a spectacular sight, offering a regenerating and tranquil experience for nature lovers.
This natural phenomenon makes Lac du Combal a unique destination, offering a glimpse into the dynamic relationship between glaciers, water, and the alpine environment. It's a place where visitors can appreciate the raw beauty of nature and reflect on its ongoing transformations.
Navigating the Trail to the Lake
To make the ascent more manageable, visitors can opt for a shuttle bus service that runs from La Visaille. This bus transports people higher up the track, significantly reducing the walking distance and effort required. This is a highly recommended option for families with young children, older visitors, or anyone seeking a less physically demanding experience.
Even with the shuttle, comfortable and sturdy footwear is essential, as the terrain can be uneven in places. The effort is well worth it, as the trail opens up to breathtaking views of the alpine landscape, culminating in the serene beauty of Lac du Combal.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit