The World of the 6 Lakes in Orcières Merlette: When Hiking Becomes a Magical Experience
In the heart of the Hautes-Alpes and at the gateway to the Écrins National Park, the resort ofOrcières Merlette 1850 offers a unique mountain trail: The World of the 6 Lakes. More than just a high-altitude hike, this loop trail offers an enchanting and accessible getaway, ideal for families and lovers of the great outdoors alike.
A scenic climb to the summit of the Écrins
Your adventure begins aboard the Drouvet Télémix. In just a few minutes, the lift takes you to an altitude of 2,650 meters. As soon as you arrive, the view is breathtaking: a 360° panorama of the rugged peaks of the Écrins Massif.
Below, six glacial lakes with crystal-clear waters are scattered at altitudes ranging from 2,160 to 2,560 meters, ready to reveal their secrets to you.
The 6 Essential Steps of the Journey
1. The Great Lake of the Estaris: The Giant of the Highlands
Nestled in the heart of a National Nature Reserve, the Grand Lac des Estaris is the largest (11 hectares) and highest lake in the valley. This majestic giant immediately immerses you in an authentic high-mountain atmosphere.
The most convenient option: Accessible on foot or a quick ride via the Drouvet Télémix.
2. The Deep Lake: A Mineral Setting
Nestled at the foot of the glacial peaks, Lac Profond is a sight to behold with its dark, clear waters. The surrounding limestone ridges are reflected in the lake, creating the wildest and most rugged scenery on the trail.
3. Lac Long: The Mirror of the Rocks
Nestled at the bottom of a rocky basin bordered by scree, Lac Long epitomizes the quintessential high-altitude landscape. It marks a spectacular transition between the rocky world of the mountain peaks and the lush alpine meadows.
4. The Twin Lakes: A Photogenic Favorite
As you continue downhill, you’ll come across a rare natural wonder: two adjacent pools separated by a narrow strip of land. The contrast between the green grass and the reflection of the rocks makes this the most picturesque stop along the route.
Tip: Visit them in early summer to see them at their fullest as the snow melts.
5. The Lake of the Sirens: A Poetic Stop
Located in the Roche Rousse area, this iconic lake charms visitors with its serene beauty. Surrounded by alpine meadows dotted with cotton grass with its fluffy pom-poms, it’s the perfect spot for a family picnic.
6. Lake Jujal: A bucolic break
The final stop before returning to the resort, Lake Jujal lies on a vast, open plateau. Peaceful and lush, it offers a soothing view of the entire Champsaur Valley.
Why choose the theme
“The World of the Six Lakes”?
The theme of this itinerary is inspired by a fantasy tale: a shepherd’s dream.
Along the trail, 18 artistic and playful installations, seamlessly integrated into the landscape, punctuate your walk. Conceived by local writers, landscape architects, and artisans, these creations celebrate pastoral life and alpine wildlife while delighting visitors of all ages.
Practical Information for Your Hike
- Open: From late June through September (depending on weather and snow conditions).
- Route Profile: 11-km loop | Elevation gain: +150 m / -917 m | Difficulty: Mostly downhill.
- Tourist Information Office: 04 92 55 89 90 (be sure to check the ski lift operating hours before you leave).
Essential Gear for High Altitudes
Even though the route is mostly downhill, it takes place at an altitude of more than 2,500 meters. Be sure to bring:
- High-top hiking boots with good traction.
- Hiking poles to take the strain off your knees when going downhill.
- Strong sun protection (SPF 50 sunscreen, Category 3 or 4 sunglasses).
- Warm, windproof clothing (the weather changes quickly in the mountains).
- Enough water.
Preserving the Magic of the Mountains: Eco-Friendly Practices in the Mountains
The World of the Six Lakes is home to ecosystems that are as beautiful as they are fragile. To preserve this exceptional biodiversity, make these habits part of your routine:
- Stay on the marked trails: Do not walk on riverbanks or in sensitive wetlands.
- Please do not swim: Sunscreen and chemicals affect the purity of the water and threaten aquatic species.
- Take your trash with you: Leave no trace of your visit.
Plan Your Visit: Download the practical guide to the World of the 6 Lakes (PDF)
Your hotel: the gateway to the “World of the Six Lakes”
Set out on one of the most magnificent high-altitude trails in the Hautes-Alpes without leaving the comfort of your accommodations.
Located in the heart of Orcières Merlette 1850, the Les Catrems and Le Montagnou hotels are the ideal base for exploring the famous “World of the 6 Lakes” loop (Lac des Estaris, Lac Profond, Lac des Sirènes, Lac Long, Lac Jumeau, and Lac des Jujal).
Un lien direct avec le parcours :
- Start your hike right away: Forget about shuttles and cars. From the hotel, it’s just a few minutes’ walk to the Drouvet Télémix, which takes you directly to an elevation of 2,650 meters, at the trailhead for the “World of the 6 Lakes” trail.
- The trail at a glance: Admire the peaks overlooking the lake loop trail right from your room’s terrace or balcony before setting out on the hike.
- Simplified logistics: Take advantage of a secure storage area to leave your hiking poles and boots when you return from the trail.
- The perfect way to wind down after a day of hiking: After exploring the high-altitude plateau and walking along the shimmering lakes, return to the warm comfort of the hotel to relax and enjoy a drink at the bar while reminiscing about your hike.
A typical day starting from the hotel: Enjoy a hearty breakfast, walk 5 minutes to the ski lifts, explore the lakeside gems of the Écrins Massif, and head back down on foot or via the Télémix to end your day on our peaceful terrace.
