Swimming in the mountains
There’s nothing quite like being in water. Whether swimming or playing, doing lengths or just lazing around, water is invigorating and makes you feel good.
Oisans, peacefully by the water…
In addition to the many swimming pools, lakes and watersports areas, there are also lovely riverbanks, streams and waterfalls throughout the region.
It’s great to go for a swim when the weather gets hot, but where can you enjoy this simple pleasure in Oisans?
There are many public swimming pools
- 5 indoor pools (open summer and winter): Livet-et-Gavet, Vaujany, l’Alpe d’Huez, and les 2 Alpes (x2).
- 6 open-air pools (open only in summer): Allemond, Bourg-d’Oisans, Auris, l’Alpe d’Huez, les 2 Alpes and Venosc.
Not forgetting the many private pools in campsites, hotels and complexes!
- 5 indoor pools (open summer and winter): Livet-et-Gavet, Vaujany, l’Alpe d’Huez, and les 2 Alpes (x2).
- 6 open-air pools (open only in summer): Allemond, Bourg-d’Oisans, Auris, l’Alpe d’Huez, les 2 Alpes and Venosc. Not forgetting the many private pools in campsites, hotels and complexes!
by the lakeside
Not-to-mention when it’s strictly forbidden, we always strongly advise against swimming in mountain lakes for the obvious reasons of pollution and disturbing the “peace” of aquatic habitats. So just dip your feet in the water, that’s enough!
Rivers, torrents, and waterfalls also provide a perfect excuse to head to the water’s edge when it’s hot…
- The only lake where swimming is authorised is Buissonnière Lake at Les 2 Alpes: when you arrive at the resort, you’ll see a pretty little activities lake (artificial) with a children’s play area and a petanque pit.
- Up in the mountains, the shores of the lakes are very appealing for picnics or relaxing, and just being near the water is enough to benefit from the fresh waters in the hot summer sun.
- Verney watersports centre offers a wide range of watersports: stand-up paddle, pedalo boats, windsurfing, canoeing, etc. Even if swimming is not authorised (since it is the reservoir for a dam), you can still have a nice refreshing day out on the water.
- Chambon watersports centre, on the shores of the reservoir of the dam that bears the same name, is locally known as “la cabane au bord du lac” (the cabin on the water’s edge). Swimming is not authorised here either, but there is a wide range of watersports available including stand-up paddle, canoeing/kayaking, pedalo boats, as well as yoga, badminton, petanque and slackline. All of this, in a green setting, perfect for relaxing and taking it easy.
