Arolla · La Gouille · approx. 2 090 m
The Lac Bleu d'Arolla.
An alpine lake with turquoise waters, a short walk from Arolla. One of the most popular family walks in the Val d'Hérens.
Turquoise waters
at 2 090 m.
The Lac Bleu is a small alpine lake nestled above the hamlet of La Gouille, within the area of Arolla. At around 2 090 m above sea level, it owes its reputation to the turquoise colour of its waters, fed by snowmelt and set amid larches and pastures.
It is one of the most emblematic walks in the Val d'Hérens: accessible for families, photogenic throughout the summer season, and ideal as a first mountain outing from Arolla.
How to reach
the lake.
The shortest route starts at La Gouille, on the road between Les Haudères and Arolla. The path climbs through forest and reaches the lake in about 40 minutes. The starting point is served by the PostBus.
From Arolla, a longer walk of about 1 h 30 also leads to the lake, crossing alpine pastures and Arolla pine forests. Many choose to combine the ascent by one route with the descent by the other.
When to come,
how to enjoy it.
The lake is accessible from June to October, once the path is clear of snow. The turquoise colour is at its most striking in clear weather, around midday. In autumn, the golden larches transform the scene.
The site is an unsupervised natural area: bring good footwear and water, and respect the peace of the place and the surrounding wildlife.
Starting from
the hotel.
The Grand Hôtel & Kurhaus stands in Arolla, at 2 070 m, a few minutes from the start of the paths. Founded in 1896 and a member of Swiss Historic Hotels, it is a natural starting point for discovering the Lac Bleu and the walks of the Val d'Hérens.
Our reception will advise you on path conditions and PostBus timetables. Reception open 9am–7pm, 7 days a week: +41 27 283 70 00.
The Lac Bleu,
in practice.
Where is the Lac Bleu d'Arolla?
The Lac Bleu lies above the hamlet of La Gouille, within the area of Arolla, in the Val d'Hérens (Valais), at around 2 090 m above sea level. It is a small alpine lake renowned for the turquoise colour of its waters.
How long does it take to walk up to the Lac Bleu?
From La Gouille, allow about 40 minutes of walking uphill along a forest path. From Arolla, the walk is longer, about 1 h 30. The start at La Gouille is served by the PostBus.
Is the walk to the Lac Bleu suitable for families?
Yes. From La Gouille, the short, shaded path is well suited to families with children. Bring good footwear and water. It is one of the most accessible mountain outings from Arolla.
What is the best season to see the Lac Bleu?
From June to October, once the path is clear of snow. The turquoise colour is at its most intense in clear weather around midday, in July and August. In autumn, the golden larches make for a remarkable setting around the lake.
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