Lake Bissorte is located in the French Alps, specifically in the village of Orelle, near Valfréjus ski resort.

Surrounded by majestic peaks and dense forests, the lake offers an idyllic backdrop for a wide variety of outdoor activities. It also serves as the starting point for one of the most beautiful hikes in the Maurienne Valley.

Let yourself be blown away by the wild beauty of Lake Bissorte and its many virtues.

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Lake Bissorte and Bissorte Dam

Nestled in the heart of a spectacular mountain landscape, Lake Bissorte invites its visitors to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and be carried away by the Alps’ natural splendour.


After a pleasant one-hour walk, Bissorte Dam, the source of this artificial lake, rewards its visitors by revealing incredible panoramic views.

The lake’s breathtaking turquoise hue is thanks to the crystalline waters that feed into it from the neighbouring glaciers. The peaks that surround the lake harmoniously cast their reflection on its surface throughout the walk, offering an unmatched sense of tranquillity to those who embark on the renowned Lake Bissorte hike.


A testament to the rich local heritage and its preservation, Saint Bartholomew’s Chapel stands solemnly in the vicinity. A getaway to Lake Bissorte is the perfect chance to relax in the heart of the majestic mountains, a moment not many get to experience to recharge and connect with the surrounding nature.

Lac bissorte

Activities by Lake Bissorte

Lake Bissorte is a peaceful place to unwind, enjoy a picnic, and recharge your batteries surrounded by nature. Not only this, but it is also ideal for a wide variety of outdoor activities.

To reach Lake Bissorte by car, you’ll need to take the accessible forest track that leads to the Prec car park. Once parked, follow the trail that starts around 50 metres from the car park, going upwards, and that quickly ascends towards the small Prec plateau.

Bissorte Lake is a privileged hiking location. Signposted and very well-maintained trails allow for both hiking and mountain biking. A path carved into the cliff also allows you to descend towards Prec, a picturesque hamlet in the mountains. The lake is also great for fishing, since it is known for its brown trout, rainbow trout, and Arctic char.

bagarre bissorte

While swimming is not formally prohibited in Lake Bissorte, it’s important to remember that its waters come from glaciers. This means that temperatures can be quite low, making for a less enjoyable swim. For those looking for a more pleasant swimming experience, the Maurienne tourist office recommends heading to “Lac des Hurtières”, which is about a thirty-minute drive from Orelle. 

What’s more, the lake in Albiez-le-Jeune, located just 40 minutes from the town, is the ideal place to relax and recharge in a peaceful atmosphere.

Hiking around Lake Bissorte

The renowned circuit around Lake Bissorte offers a moderately difficult hike, marked by a 670-metre ascent and a 14-kilometre journey through the majestic alpine mountains. During this hike, you will cross dense forests and discover crystal-clear streams, making for a breathtaking landscape and an unforgettable experience.

Hikers will discover Bissorte Dam and the hiking trails that wind around the lake with their incredible panoramic views. You can also extend the walk by taking a round-trip trail that leads to another lake, “Lac des Bataillères”. It involves an ascent lasting around 50 minutes that’s definitely worth exploring for those who love a good workout.

This being said, there are also several other hiking trails in the area that offer routes of different difficulty levels. We suggest embarking on these routes between May and October, when the weather conditions high up in the mountains are more favourable.

Looking to visit Lake Bissorte?

Lake Bissorte, a French alpine gem, awaits you with its spectacular landscapes, dazzling turquoise waters, and a wide variety of outdoor activities.

Let yourself be carried away by the tranquillity of this preserved location, where nature reigns supreme. Take some time to discover the region, recharge your batteries along the waterside, and explore the treasures tucked away in the surrounding mountains. Lake Bissorte is much more than a tourist destination; it’s an invitation to live an authentic experience in harmony with nature.

So, what are you waiting for? Plan your getaway to Lake Bissorte and get ready to make unforgettable memories in the heart of the French Alps. Lake Bissorte guarantees you an experience like no other. Book your stay now!