When the most popular hiking trails are swarming with visitors, there are still preserved places where nature reigns supreme. Just a few kilometers from Cluses, a small alpine lake nestled at the foot of an impressive cliff attracts lovers of raw landscapes and quiet adventures.
Its name? The lac Bénit, a wild treasure, perched at 1,400 meters above sea level, which only the curious and dreamers dare to explore.
A breathtaking setting, far from the hustle and bustle
Imagine a clear water mirror reflecting the Bargy mountain range, surrounded by fir forests, imposing rocks, and silence. Lac Bénit, still preserved from mass tourism, offers a shell of tranquility for those who want to escape the frenzy of daily life. Far from crowded spots, here, you hear birds, encounter ibex, and take your time.
An accessible and spectacular hike
Access to lac Bénit is via a short hike of about 1h30, starting from Morsullaz, in the Mont-Saxonnex commune. The path gently climbs through the alpine pastures, gradually offering breathtaking views of the Arve valley. Once arrived, the reward is immediate: a majestic setting where the deep blue of the lake contrasts with the gray of the limestone cliffs.
Practical information:
- Starting point: Morsullaz parking lot (access via Mont-Saxonnex)
- Elevation gain: approximately 450 m
- Ascent time: 1h30
- Level: intermediate / family-friendly if the children are motivated
An immersion in pure nature
This natural site is also a small refuge for alpine wildlife. It is not uncommon to come across chamois or marmots, especially if you arrive early in the morning. In summer, the place is ideal for a picnic by the water, but swimming is prohibited in order to preserve the lake’s fragile ecosystem.
A perfect alternative to crowded spots
If you are tired of the crowds at the lac d’Annecy or Geneva, lac Bénit is the dream alternative for a day of disconnection. This discreet place, still largely absent from major tourist guides, is the refuge for hikers in search of solitude and raw beauty.
A personal interlude
I went up to lac Bénit one August morning on a whim, while escaping the stifling crowds at the shores of Lake Geneva. Up there, it was another world: deep silence, the cracking of branches, morning light playing with the reflections on the lake. I spent two hours alone, contemplating the walls of the Bargy and telling myself that some places don’t need words, just to be experienced.
In summary:
- Lac rarely frequented even in summer
- Short but immersive hike
- Authentic alpine landscape
- No infrastructures or swimming allowed
- A guaranteed favorite for nature lovers
