Lac des Pourettes walks

We’re going to walk on the ocean!Or how to walk around a ski resort almost without seeing the slopes, but taking in some beautiful lakes and a summit far more impressive than the famous Croix de Chamrousse.

This is a magnificent circuit in the Belledonne massif that will take you to the shores of the Robert lakes, a site well known to skiers who visit the Chamrousse resort. The difficulty is not technical, but should be taken into account due to the steep slopes in places and the particular nature of this mountain range, which is often shrouded in fog.

An exceptional hike leading to the wonderful Robert Lakes starting from the Chamrousse resort. Beware of late snowfields

From Le Recoin, there are easy routes to visit the Robert Lakes. This description deviates slightly from the most commonly used trails, particularly from the Brèche Sud to reach Lac des Pourettes.

A hike to Robert Lakes in Belledonne, which requires a good sense of direction and experience of walking off-trail. At the start of the season, a slightly steep section requires the use of crampons if there is still snow.

A hike to the Robert Lakes, a little wilder than those starting from Chamrousse Ski Resort. Between (7) and (8), the descent via the ski runs is a bit challenging; it can be replaced by a long circular loop that passes by Lac des Vallons.

There are several signposted routes to the Robert Lakes: either via the Brèche Nord or the Brèche Sud, but none combining these two approaches. This circular route, starting from Roche Béranger, does just that. You are free to choose the direction of the walk, as these two routes are completely different: the Brèche Nord route is longer, with steep and rugged ascents and rocks to climb over. A shorter route with less elevation gain but large scree slopes to cross via the Southern Pass. All set against a magnificent backdrop.

This magnificent loop trail starts at the Gâte car park and climbs through the woods to the viewpoint of the impressive and beautiful Cascade de l'Oursière waterfall, then follows the Ruisseau du Doménon stream through a welcoming grassy valley, ideal for a short rest before tackling the climb up a scree slope. At the top, you will find the stream again, which flows peacefully through an alpine meadow in a picture-postcard setting. Once you have crossed a valley, you will discover the charming Lac Merlat in a high mountain atmosphere. Take a short detour to the Refuge de la Pra before continuing on to admire the series of superb lakes: Claret, Longet, Bernard and Léama. After crossing a few rocky outcrops, you come to a cute little lake and then the three Robert Lakes at the foot of the Croix de Chamrousse. The descent from the Brèche Robert Nord leads to the Lac des Pourettes in a marshy basin and finally a passage through the forest brings you back to the car park.