Lake Arpy
A glacial lake above Morgex, surrounded by larches
Lake Arpy belongs to the municipality of Morgex, in the Valdigne. It lies in a hollow carved out by an ancient glacier, at an altitude of 2,066 metres. It makes a short, easy walk and is very popular on summer Sundays.
Water that changes colour
In calm weather the lake reflects the sky and the surrounding peaks. Its colour varies with the seasons. In spring and summer the water looks emerald green. In autumn the larches turn yellow and the water takes on golden and russet tints.
Flowers and animals
Rhododendrons, gentians and edelweiss grow on the shores. Marmots live in the meadows around the lake. You may also see chamois and several species of mountain birds.
Round the lake
A waymarked path goes round the lake in about an hour. It offers different views of the water and the mountains. A few picnic areas allow you to stop for lunch.
The road from Morgex
A road suitable for cars climbs from Morgex to the hamlet of Arpy, on the way to the Colle San Carlo, which then descends to La Thuile. You leave the car at the Arpy car park, then finish on foot to the lake along a path through the forest. The climb presents no difficulty. It can be done there and back in a day, even with children.
Photographers often come early in the morning or at the end of the day. The light is softer then, and the water, with no wind, reflects the mountains.
