8 Best Hikes Around Lac de Serre-Poncon: The Complete Guide
Lac de Serre-Poncon is a turquoise giant nestled in the heart of the French Hautes-Alpes. Stretching 28 kilometers long with a surface area of 3,000 hectares, it is the largest artificial lake in mainland France. But Serre-Poncon is far more than a postcard destination for swimmers — it is a remarkable hiking territory where mountains plunge into impossibly blue waters.
Around the lake, trails climb to summits above 2,500 meters, pass through larch and Scots pine forests, follow airy ridgelines and reveal panoramas where the lake appears as an Alpine fjord. The contrast between the arid south-facing slopes and the lush shaded valleys creates a surprising variety of landscapes.
Here is our selection of 8 hikes to discover Serre-Poncon on foot, from accessible walks to challenging mountain ascents.
1. Pic de Morgon: the ultimate lake viewpoint
Distance: 16.8 km | Elevation: +987 m | Level: Challenging | Duration: 6h30
Pic de Morgon is THE iconic summit of Serre-Poncon. Standing at 2,324 meters, it offers a breathtaking 360-degree panorama: the entire lake unfolds beneath your feet, with the snow-capped peaks of the Ecrins massif, the Devoluy range and even Mont Ventoux visible on clear days.
The hike starts from the hamlet of Morgon, above Savines-le-Lac. The trail winds first through a pine forest before emerging onto Alpine meadows where marmots whistle at your approach. The final section becomes more rocky, with ridge passages offering vertiginous views down to the lake.
The descent via the eastern slope allows for a complete loop. You will cross Alpine grasslands carpeted with gentians and asters in spring, before returning to the cool shade of the forest.
The highlight: the moment you reach the summit and the entire lake reveals itself below, like an inland sea surrounded by mountains. A breathtaking sight that justifies every meter of elevation gain.
2. Aiguilles de Chabrieres via Lac de Saint-Apollinaire: the complete hike
Distance: 15.6 km | Elevation: +901 m | Level: Challenging | Duration: 6h
This hike combines two gems of the area: the charming Lac de Saint-Apollinaire and the impressive Aiguilles de Chabrieres, whose jagged peaks evoke a French version of the Dolomites.
The trail starts from the village of Saint-Apollinaire, perched at 1,300 meters. It first follows the shore of its lake, a natural jewel reflecting the surrounding mountains. Then the ascent intensifies toward the aiguilles, through larch forests and flowery clearings.
The Aiguilles de Chabrieres form a spectacular rocky amphitheater. The trail weaves between limestone towers, offering changing perspectives at every turn. At the highest point, the view encompasses both Lac de Serre-Poncon below and the high peaks of the Ecrins to the north.
The highlight: the contrast between the gentle beauty of Lac de Saint-Apollinaire and the vertical mineral world of the aiguilles. Two worlds in a single hike. Don't forget your trekking poles for the steep sections.
3. Le Meale summit from Les Orres: the Alpine meadow panorama
Distance: 14.8 km | Elevation: +920 m | Level: Challenging | Duration: 5h30
Les Orres, known for its ski resort, reveals a completely different character in summer. Le Meale, the area's highest summit at 2,819 meters, offers a demanding but magnificent hike through vast Alpine meadows with views stretching to the Italian border.
Starting from Les Orres 1650 resort, you quickly reach the high pastures. The trail climbs steadily through altitude grasslands dotted with gentians, rhododendrons and houseleeks. Marmots are everywhere, their whistles accompanying you throughout the ascent.
At the summit, the panorama is immense: Lac de Serre-Poncon glimmers to the southwest, the Ecrins massif dominates to the north with the Barre des Ecrins (4,102 m), and on exceptional days, Mont Blanc appears on the horizon.
The highlight: the high-mountain atmosphere accessible without technical equipment. The view of the Ecrins from the summit is one of the finest in the Hautes-Alpes. Bring a windproof jacket — it is often windy at the top.
4. Sentier des Pyramides from Le Lauzet-Ubaye: the hidden canyon
Distance: 13.1 km | Elevation: +603 m | Level: Intermediate | Duration: 4h30
The Sentier des Pyramides is one of the most remarkable geological curiosities in the region. These rock formations, known as "fairy chimneys" or "hoodoos," are columns of earth topped by a protective boulder that shields them from erosion. The landscape evokes an otherworldly scene in the heart of the Alps.
Starting from Le Lauzet-Ubaye, at the eastern end of the lake, the trail leads through narrow gorges and pine forests before reaching the pyramid site. The path is well maintained with information panels explaining the local geology.
The complete loop passes through viewpoints over Lac de Serre-Poncon and the Ubaye valley, with the border peaks of Italy as a backdrop. It is an ideal hike for understanding the exceptional geological history of the region.
The highlight: the earth pyramids themselves — ephemeral natural sculptures that change appearance with the seasons and ongoing erosion. A landscape unique in France.
5. Lake loop from Pontis: the postcard view
Distance: 12.7 km | Elevation: +202 m | Level: Easy | Duration: 3h30
This is THE hike to experience the lake without too much effort. Starting from the village of Pontis, perched on a rocky spur overlooking the lake, the trail offers exceptional panoramic views over the entire reservoir.
The route descends to the lakeshore via a shaded path, follows the turquoise waterline, then climbs back through orchards and lavender fields toward the village. The modest elevation gain makes this hike accessible to the whole family, including children.
The village of Pontis deserves a pause: its narrow lanes, Romanesque chapel and old stone houses tell centuries of mountain history. It is also one of the best spots to photograph the lake with the mountains as a backdrop.
The highlight: the panorama from Pontis over the lake and the Grande Autane mountain, with the Savines bridge in the foreground. The classic Serre-Poncon photograph. Remember to bring a insulated water bottle to stay hydrated.
6. Tour des Aiguilles de Chabrieres: the mineral loop
Distance: 11.3 km | Elevation: +732 m | Level: Intermediate | Duration: 4h30
This variant of the Aiguilles de Chabrieres route offers a complete circuit around these impressive rock formations. Rather than going up and coming back the same way, this loop reveals the aiguilles from every angle.
The trail alternates between forest passages, scree crossings and panoramic ridges. Every turn offers a different perspective on the limestone towers, some reaching 50 meters in height. The atmosphere is Dolomitic, with light that sculpts the rock throughout the day.
The northern section crosses ancient larch forests where you may spot roe deer and chamois. The southern section, more exposed, offers open views over Lac de Serre-Poncon and the Monges range to the south.
The highlight: the diversity of atmospheres on a single circuit — dense forest, mineral scree, airy ridge and lakeside panorama. A photographer's dream hike.
7. Serre-Poncon loop from La Clapiere: the wild shore
Distance: 11.7 km | Elevation: +363 m | Level: Intermediate | Duration: 3h45
The northern shore of the lake, less visited than the southern side, offers a wilder and more preserved atmosphere. This loop from the hamlet of La Clapiere follows forest trails that alternate between panoramic ridges and cool woodland.
The route follows the shoreline from above, offering dramatic views down to the turquoise waters. You will pass through pubescent oak and Scots pine forests, typical of this elevation where Mediterranean and Alpine influences meet.
Several designated viewpoints allow you to stop and take in the scenery. You can easily spot the Serre-Poncon dam to the west, the perched villages on the heights, and the snowy summits closing the horizon to the north.
The highlight: the tranquility of the northern shore and the plunging views over the lake from the wooded ridges. A restorative hike far from the summer crowds.
8. Lac de Sainte-Marguerite from Les Orres: the hidden lake
Distance: 13.1 km | Elevation: +808 m | Level: Intermediate | Duration: 5h
Lac de Sainte-Marguerite is a hidden gem nestled in a mountain amphitheater above Les Orres. At 2,175 meters altitude, this natural glacial lake offers a wild and preserved setting, far from the crowds.
The trail departs from Les Orres resort and climbs through magnificent larch forests. In spring, the forest floor is covered with crocuses and soldanellas. Higher up, the Alpine meadows open with increasingly expansive views over the valley and Lac de Serre-Poncon below.
Lac de Sainte-Marguerite sits in a glacial cirque. Its crystal-clear waters reflect the surrounding rock walls and, in early season, the snow patches that persist on north-facing slopes. It is the perfect spot for a picnic lunch in a grand setting.
The highlight: discovering this secret lake, a true altitude gem. Pack a picnic and enjoy the absolute silence of the high mountains. A 20-liter daypack will be enough to carry your lunch and gear for the day.
Practical tips for hiking around Serre-Poncon
The Serre-Poncon area offers hikes for all levels, but a few specifics deserve attention:
- Altitude — several routes climb above 2,000 m. Even in summer, temperatures can drop sharply. Pack extra layers and a lightweight fleece
- Water — water sources are scarce on ridges and south-facing slopes. Carry at least 1.5 liters per person, more for challenging hikes
- Thunderstorms — summer afternoon storms are common in the mountains. Check the forecast and start early to be back down before 2 pm on exposed summits
- Wildlife — chamois, marmots, golden eagles and bearded vultures inhabit these mountains. Keep your distance and observe with binoculars
- Navigation — trail markings are generally good, but a hiking map or GPX file is essential for high-altitude routes
Ready to discover Serre-Poncon on foot?
Lac de Serre-Poncon is a true paradise for hikers. From Pic de Morgon with its 360-degree panorama to the geological wonders of the Sentier des Pyramides, from the Aiguilles de Chabrieres to hidden altitude lakes, every trail reveals a different facet of this exceptional Hautes-Alpes territory.
The best part? After a day of mountain hiking, you can dive into the turquoise waters of the lake for a well-deserved swim. Hard to find a better combination.
Find all these routes and many more with GPX files on the Embrunais - Serre-Poncon page on OpenRando. Download the track to your phone and set off to discover France's largest lake.
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