
Near the Chamrousse ski resort, the three Robert Alpine lakes are located at an altitude of 2000 meters. Fully frozen in winter, they become a popular fishing site in summer, especially for their populations of Arctic char and rainbow trout. Robert Lakes represent 28 hectares of fresh water at the bottom of a circus bowl. The three close lakes are separated by thin rocky bands. Dominated by the peaks of the Grand Sorbier, the Petit van and the Grand Van, which each measure around 2,500 meters above sea level, Robert lakes are classified in the Natura 2000 zone and offer visitors a sumptuous setting. The site is also of great botanical interest: it hosts a diverse mountain flora, among which columbines from the Alps or the endemic variety of Cardamine from Plumier, specific to the Belledonne massif. We also meet the bird Tétras Lyre, emblematic of the European Alps. Robert lakes are popular in winter for ice diving. Other activities are to be discovered around the lakes, like this via ferrata more than 300 meters long. At the foot of a red ski slope in the resort, the Robert lakes are also linked to the Croix de Chamrousse by a chairlift.
There are several hiking routes to get to Robert lakes: from a small family walk to a beautiful day hike, the choice is wide and suitable for everyone. From the Croix de Chamrousse, a small 6 km loop can be completed in 2 hours 30 minutes: ideal for families with young children, it departs from the tourist office, at the foot of the cable cars, reaches the lake via the Brèche Sud , and offers a return by Lac des Pourettes. Another option, easy but longer, consists of starting from Roche-Béranger, at the bottom of the slopes, to climb to Robert lakes with a first stage at Lac Achard, a second at the Col de l'Infernet and a third at the Col des Lessines. The return is by the Croix de Chamrousse, taking the tracks on foot. This loop of almost 12 km can be completed in 3:30 or 4 hours if you take your time and take breaks.
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