Les Lacs Jovet hike

Departing from Notre Dame de la Gorge, you first walk along the water's edge, accompanied by the Bon Nant in the hollow of the Val Montjoie to the Refuge du Nant Borrant.

You follow the itinerary of the GR5 long-distance hiking trails and the legendary Tour du Mont-Blanc.

Following the Voie Romaine, you'll gradually plunge into the heart of the Réserve Naturelle Nationale des Contamines, France's highest nature reserve.

Shortly after passing the Refuge de Balme, the Chalets Jovets, surrounded by a moorland of rhododendrons, myrtillers and junipers, are the gateway to the lakes.

At the first and then at the second (smaller) lakes, admire the 3,196 m-high Mont Tondu in front of you, and behind you, the valley leading to the Col du Bonhomme.

After returning to Notre Dame de la Gorge by the same route, take the opportunity to visit the Baroque chapel at the end of the day, and return to the parking lot along the highly instructive botanical trail.

Swimming in the Jovet lakes is strictly forbidden! A high-altitude lake has a very fragile ecosystem that must not be disturbed.