Lake Montriond In Morzine – Ultimate Activity Guide
Lake Montriond is without question one of our favorite summer spots. With its beautiful water, stunning alpine backdrop and endless list of activities, it’s easy to see why.
Situated on the outskirts of Morzine, the lake is easily accessed by car, bus or bike and has something for everyone.
We’ve spent many sunny days at the lake, sampling all it has to offer and this guide is designed to share our top tips on how to get the most out of your trip to Lake Montriond.
How To Get To Lake Montriond From Morzine
Lake Montriond sits just over 5kms from the centre of Morzine and can easily be reached by car in under ten minutes. There is ample parking at the lake with car parks at either end and overflow areas along the road. During the peak summer months the lake is also serviced by bus (luckily the closest bus stop is at the Marie, just a short walk from The Farmhouse).
If you are a cyclist then the ride to the lake is flat for the first half to reach the village of Montriond then as you turn right at the village square the road climbs steadily up to the lake.
If hiking is your thing then you can walk right from the front door of The Farmhouse. Heading down to the Palais des Sportes (below the suspension bridge) and following the gently flowing river Dranse along the beautiful Parc des Dereches. Staying on the right hand side of the river and turning right through the meadow up to the village of Montriond. Crossing the road and through the car park by the Marie and onto Vielle Route you will come to a walking sign up on your right (about 150m before the roundabout), follow this track through lovely tranquil alpine forest until you reach the lake. This is a 11km round trip so make sure you’re up for the challenge before setting off, however you could always get the bus there or back.
Weather – The weather can change very quickly in the mountains so always check the weather forecast before you leave and it’s always worth taking a waterproof layer just in case.
1) Swim
Lake Montriond is perfect for swimming with its crystal clear waters and stunning backdrops. The water starts as snow melt feeding into rivers starting high up in the mountains which flow down into the lake. The lake is 19m deep at its deepest spot and covers an area of 32 hectares. The lake is 1.3km in length so there’s plenty of distance for the more adventurous swimmers. There is also a dedicated separate childrens swimming area at the near end of the lake.
2) Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP)
Supping is a fantastically relaxing way to explore the water of Lake Montriond. Boards and paddles can be rented from the watersports rental shop at the near end of the lake. Available for half an hour or an hour, paddleboarding is great for your balance and core strength.
3) BBQ
At the far end of the lake there are purpose built BBQ areas which just require coals. The far end of the lake offers the most spectacular views and is the perfect spot for a lunchtime or evening bbq.
4) Walk
There is a flat gravel path that surrounds the lake meaning you can walk around the entire lake. At around 3kms in length it’s more than just a stroll but the views are worth every step.
For the more adventurous, the walk can be extended (doubled in fact) by following the fire road through the carpark at the far end of the lake all the way up to the Cascade d’Ardent (waterfall) and back.
5) Eat
Luckily there are fantastic eateries at both ends of the lake. Le Bout du Lac at the far end has a spectacular terrace with amazing views as does Le Verdoyant along the left hand side of the lake.
These two restaurants offer significant menus but if you’d prefer a quick snack the smaller restaurant in the car park at the near end of the lake offers burgers and crepes etc. Lake Montriond is also the perfect spot for a picnic.
6) Kayak
Paddling across the lake on a kayak is a fantastic way to spend an afternoon. Kayaks (and canoes) can be rented from the watersports rental shop at the near end of the lake.
7) Sunbathing
Both ends of the lake have large grassy areas which are perfect for laying down a towel and soaking up the sun.
8) Yoga
What could be a better setting for some relaxing Yoga than a beautiful alpine lake surrounded by tranquil forests and mountains.
9) Pony Rides
This is one for the kids only unfortunately but if you have children they will love a ride along the shores of the lake on a lovely little pony. The ponys can be rented from the near end of the lake.
10) Boules and Mini Golf
Why not try your hand at the traditional French game of Boules. At the near end of the lake there is a gravel area specifically laid out for boules. Or what about mini golf? There is a 12 hole action packed mini golf course just along from the boules area.
11) Propose to Your Partner
If love is in the air and your thinking of proposing to your better half then Lake Montriond is the perfect spot. What could be more romantic than a beautiful alpine lake backdrop for your special moment.
12) Photography
If you like taking photos then Lake Montriond has to be on your list of places to visit when in Morzine. The scenery surrounding the lake is stunning and the vibrant greens and blues from the mountains, forests, skies and water lend themselves perfectly to photography.
13) Fishing
Lake Montriond is well stocked with fish being home to trout (both brown and rainbow), arctic char and minnows. A license is required to fish on the lake but one can be easily purchased from Hotel les Sapins on the shore of the lake.
14) Read a Book
Find a quiet sunny spot by the water, lay down a towel and get lost in literature…. Relaxation guaranteed.
15) Get Married
Imagine gathering all of your loved ones and getting married on the shores of a stunning alpine lake. Surely to be a unique and beautiful wedding that you or your guests will ever forget.
Planning Your Stay In Morzine?
So there you have it, our favourite things to do at Lake Montriond in Morzine. We hope this list gives you some ideas on how to make the most of your time in Morzine. If you’re looking for somewhere to stay for your visit to Morzine then why not check out The Farmhouse, a boutique hotel situated within Morzine’s oldest building. Click here to see more.
