Laffrey: Lakes, trails and Napoleon’s history

A stay in Laffrey can cater to a range of interests: water sports on Grand Laffrey Lake, walking trails, nature in the Marais de la Pivodière and the history of the Prairie de la Rencontre. When looking for a hotel, you can start by considering which of these themes you want to shape your itinerary.

Lakes with different rules

Grand Laffrey Lake is a natural site with tourist and historical interest. There are two water sports centres and a naturist centre; the designated beaches are for recreation and water sports. If you plan to spend time by the water, these activities make for a clear focus. Facilities and operating arrangements may vary seasonally. Check the latest conditions if you plan to use a particular beach or take part in a particular water sport.

Lac Mort is an artificial lake and hydroelectric site; swimming is strictly prohibited there. This clearly distinguishes it from Grand Laffrey Lake, whose designated beaches are for recreation and water sports. Bear these different conditions in mind when planning activities by the water.

Walks by route type and views

“Au pays des lacs de Laffrey” is an easy, family-friendly walking trail with very beautiful views of the Laffrey lakes. As trail conditions can change with the weather, check them before setting out. This gives you both the trail rating and the views as practical reference points for planning your day.

On “Rando-poussette: le lac Mort,” the route follows a flat dirt and gravel path and is considered suitable for children. If you’re looking instead for a family-friendly loop with special views of Grenoble and the surrounding mountain ranges, you’ll find one on “Le tour du lac Mort.” The “Le Tour des 4 lacs” loop also passes through Laffrey. Road and trail conditions may vary; check them before setting out.

History at the Prairie de la Rencontre

The Prairie de la Rencontre in Laffrey is where Napoleon met the troops sent by Louis XVIII to stop him on March 7, 1815. This encounter gives the site its historical significance. A 700-metre-long footpath crosses the grounds; it is accessible to people with reduced mobility and to pushchairs.

Six information points along the path tell the story of the site. Check accessibility before visiting. The information points may be updated over time. The Prairie thus connects a specific event with a path that brings the local history to life on site.

Nature and practical information

In the Marais de la Pivodière sector, reed beds and aquatic vegetation characterise the wetland; its wildlife includes waterbirds, fish and dragonflies. This natural setting differs from the designated recreational beaches on Grand Laffrey Lake and complements Laffrey’s walking and historical attractions.

On the drive from Grenoble to Matheysine, the route follows the N85 via Vizille and Laffrey after the A48. Road conditions and recommended routes may change; check them before setting off. There is an electric vehicle charging station in Grandes Saignes in Laffrey. If your plans depend on charging there, check availability in advance, as charging infrastructure and availability may change.

Discover more destinations: Saint-Hilaire, Crolles, Pisieu, Saint-Bernard, Izeaux, Lavars, Izeron, Saint-Joseph-de-Rivière

For the broader travel overview: Isere.