Champex-Lac
A charming Swiss Alpine village nestled by a serene lake, offering stunning TMB hiking and winter ice skating.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clearer views, fewer crowds
Champex-Lac
Best Time
Clearer views, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming Swiss Alpine village nestled by a serene lake, offering stunning TMB hiking and winter ice skating.
"Champex-Lac: a picturesque TMB stop with a serene lake and winter magic."
🎒 Pack for TMB
Essential for TMB hikers! Bring layers, rain gear, and sturdy boots. Consider poles for descents. :athletic_shoe:
🏨 Book Ahead
Accommodation in Champex-Lac fills up fast, especially for TMB trekkers. Book well in advance!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Champex-Lac Lake
The heart of the village
A serene alpine lake offering stunning reflections and a refreshing dip on warm days. Perfect for a peaceful stroll or a cool-down after a hike.

Tour du Mont Blanc Trail
Surrounding mountain paths
Experience breathtaking Swiss Alps scenery on this iconic hiking route. Sections leading to and from Champex-Lac offer varied terrain and rewarding vistas.

Alpine Club Spa
The Alpine Club Hotel
Indulge in ultimate relaxation with a sauna, hammam, and jacuzzi. A perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring the mountains.

Frozen Lake Skating
Champex-Lac (winter)
When winter arrives, the lake freezes over, creating a magical natural ice rink. Enjoy a unique skating experience surrounded by snowy peaks.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the TMB Pace
Seasonal Splendor
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎒 Pack for TMB
Essential for TMB hikers! Bring layers, rain gear, and sturdy boots.
Consider poles for descents. :athletic_shoe:🏨 Book Ahead
Accommodation in Champex-Lac fills up fast, especially for TMB trekkers. Book well in advance!
🧊 Lake Dip
Brave the chilly waters of Lac de Champex for a refreshing post-hike swim.
It's invigorating!☕ Coffee & Crepes
Stop at La Kabana for a delightful break with coffee and crepes during your hike.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎒 Pack for TMB
Essential for TMB hikers! Bring layers, rain gear, and sturdy boots.
Consider poles for descents. :athletic_shoe:🏨 Book Ahead
Accommodation in Champex-Lac fills up fast, especially for TMB trekkers. Book well in advance!
🧊 Lake Dip
Brave the chilly waters of Lac de Champex for a refreshing post-hike swim.
It's invigorating!☕ Coffee & Crepes
Stop at La Kabana for a delightful break with coffee and crepes during your hike.
❄️ Winter Magic
Visit in winter for a unique ice skating experience on the frozen lake.
Magical!What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Champex-Lac is highly praised for its stunning natural beauty, particularly the serene lake and its role as a picturesque stop on the Tour du Mont Blanc. Visitors love the opportunities for both active pursuits like hiking and winter ice skating, as well as relaxation, especially at the local spa. Some find accommodation and dining can be pricey, and buses can be crowded during peak TMB season.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Champex-Lac is accessible by car and public transport. If hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB), it's a common stop. Buses run from Martigny, and it's a popular destination for TMB hikers coming from or going to La Fouly or Argentière.
Be aware that buses can fill up quickly during peak season.Yes, Champex-Lac is a well-known stage on the Tour du Mont Blanc. Many hikers use it as an overnight stop.
It's situated between La Fouly and Argentière, offering beautiful Swiss Alpine scenery.The section from La Fouly to Champex-Lac is a popular part of the TMB. While some hikers consider skipping sections for a more manageable trek, this particular segment is often recommended for its scenery.
It involves a mix of downhill and a short, steep climb to the lake.Yes, Champex-Lac is accessible by car. There are parking facilities available, though they can be busy during peak hiking and winter seasons. Driving offers flexibility, but be prepared for mountain roads.
While not as common as in larger cities, local taxi services may be available. For TMB hikers, pre-arranged transport or local buses are more typical. It's advisable to check local listings or inquire at your accommodation for the most up-to-date information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Champex-Lac itself, including the lake and village, is free to access. There are no admission tickets required for general exploration.
The hiking trails, including sections of the Tour du Mont Blanc, are generally free to use. However, some specific attractions or guided tours within the area might have associated costs.
Pricing for the Alpine Club hotel and its spa facilities can vary based on room type, season, and packages. It's best to check their official website or contact them directly for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
When the lake freezes over for ice skating, there might be a small fee for access or skate rental, especially if facilities like benches or changing areas are provided.
Check local information closer to the winter season for specifics.While the trails are free, booking accommodation and potentially transport in advance is highly recommended, especially for TMB hikers, as places like Champex-Lac are popular stops and can fill up quickly.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Enjoy hiking the TMB, swimming or relaxing by Lac de Champex, and in winter, ice skating on the frozen lake.
The Alpine Club offers a luxurious spa experience.Absolutely! Champex-Lac is a prime location for hikers, especially those on the Tour du Mont Blanc. The surrounding trails offer stunning Alpine views and varied terrain.
In summer, you can swim in the clear, albeit chilly, lake waters, sunbathe on its shores, or simply enjoy a leisurely walk around its perimeter.
It's a beautiful spot for relaxation.Families can enjoy gentle walks around the lake, swimming in summer, and the magical experience of ice skating in winter.
The relatively easy terrain on some TMB sections can also be suitable for older children.Yes, the reflections on the lake, the surrounding snow-capped peaks, and the charming village architecture provide numerous picturesque photo opportunities.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Champex-Lac offers several dining options, from casual cafes to restaurants. La Kabana is noted for coffee and crepes.
Many accommodations also have their own restaurants.You can expect traditional Swiss cuisine, including cheese dishes, and lighter fare like crepes.
Restaurants in hotels often offer a wider range of international and local dishes.While some mountain restaurants can be pricey, options like grabbing a crepe at La Kabana
or preparing your own picnic with supplies from a local shop can help manage costs. Some TMB hikers also mention surprise price tags at lunch stops.Many restaurants are accommodating to dietary needs. It's always best to inquire directly with the establishment about vegetarian or vegan choices. Swiss cuisine often features cheese, so vegetarian options are generally available.
Dining hours can vary, especially outside peak season. Restaurants in hotels typically serve throughout the day, while standalone cafes and restaurants may have specific lunch and dinner hours. It's advisable to check in advance.
📸 📸 Photography
The shores of Lac de Champex offer stunning reflections of the surrounding mountains, especially during sunrise and sunset.
The charming village itself, with its traditional chalets, also makes for beautiful shots.Early morning and late afternoon (golden hours) provide the best light for capturing the lake's reflections and the dramatic mountain landscapes.
Overcast days can also create a moody, atmospheric feel for the TMB trails.A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain scenery and lake. A telephoto lens can be useful for distant peaks or wildlife. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for those reflective shots.
Skating on the frozen lake in winter offers a unique and dynamic photographic subject.
The TMB trail itself provides opportunities for action shots of hikers amidst epic landscapes.If staying at a hotel with a spa like the Alpine Club, discreetly capture the ambiance. Focus on details like steam, water, and architectural elements. Always be mindful of other guests' privacy.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Winter brings a unique magic with the frozen lake ice skating. This provides a fun and memorable activity for the whole family. While the spa at the Alpine Club is more adult-oriented, the overall atmosphere of Champex-Lac is family-friendly, offering a blend of outdoor fun and relaxation in a beautiful Alpine setting.
🚶♀️ Tour du Mont Blanc Trekkers
🧘♀️ Relaxation Seekers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Tour du Mont Blanc Experience
When planning your TMB segment involving Champex-Lac, consider the La Fouly to Champex-Lac section. While some may opt to skip parts of the TMB to shorten their trek, this particular segment is often praised for its scenic rewards, despite a notable climb. The village itself offers a welcome respite with amenities and stunning lake views, making it a memorable part of the adventure.
Remember that the TMB is a demanding trek. Proper preparation is key, including appropriate gear, physical fitness, and pre-booked accommodation. The experience is about more than just the destination; it's about the journey through diverse landscapes and the personal challenge.
Seasonal Charms: Summer vs. Winter
As winter descends, Champex-Lac dons a magical snowy cloak. The frozen lake becomes a natural ice rink, providing a unique and enchanting setting for ice skating. The landscape is transformed into a serene winter wonderland, perfect for those seeking a peaceful, snow-covered escape. While hiking trails may be less accessible, the winter charm offers a different, yet equally captivating, experience.
Regardless of the season, checking local conditions is crucial. Summer can bring occasional rain, while winter snow depth dictates the feasibility of activities like skating. Both seasons offer unique beauty and activities, making Champex-Lac a year-round destination with a different appeal depending on when you visit.
Relaxation and Rejuvenation
The serene environment of Lac de Champex itself is a major draw for relaxation. Whether you're enjoying a quiet moment by the water, taking a gentle stroll, or indulging in a spa treatment, Champex-Lac invites visitors to slow down and appreciate the natural surroundings. The combination of outdoor activities and wellness options makes it a well-rounded destination for both active travelers and those seeking a peaceful retreat.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit