One trek, two rewards

6. 5. 2024

Mountains have an amazing quality. You might think they can no longer surprise you, however, the opposite is true. The trek to the glacial lake Lac de l'Eychauda pleasantly surprised us not once but twice.

Trek to the Lac de l'Eychauda glacial lake

The gradual six-kilometer ascent through a wide valley among mountain meadows suddenly changes its incline and the trail leads sharply towards a sheer wall, where a mountain lake rests in its saddle at an altitude of 2514 meters above sea level. Since early morning, the sun is scorching, and it's clear that heat will be the biggest challenge of the journey. Properly chosen clothing and, of course, an adequate supply of fluids ensure thermoregulation. This is the absolute basis for enjoying the journey itself.

Appropriate clothing is the basis of every trek. Of course, Hannah for us

Our destination – the glacial lake – is the reward. Not only our bodies, but also our minds can have a rest there. Visually, it can hardly be described as anything other than picturesque. Turquoise water reflecting the peaks of the surrounding mountains, some of which still covered in snow. Here, you'll definitely forget about the heat.

The turquoise water of Lac de l'Eychauda, in which the peaks of the surrounding mountains are reflected

However, the trail continues onward, and it would be a shame not to take advantage of it. Just climb a little over a hundred meters in elevation, and you'll reach the sharp ridge of Col des Grangettes. These last hundred meters are demanding but definitely worth it.

Surprise number two. If the lake was somewhat kitschy, the views here are twice as stunning. A hundred meters in elevation also means that even in the sweltering summer it's necessary to put on a second layer such as a functional sweatshirt, protecting against the cold wind.

The women's Dagnys Hoody is the ideal middle layer for every trek

On the way down, the weather changes quickly and unpredictably – as it often happens in the mountains. There are clouds, wind, and even the first drops of rain begin to fall. Once again, the rule was confirmed: never underestimate the right equipment and have spare clothing in your backpack, even if you expect clear skies all day.

Men's Nexus jacket is a must-have on a trek

And a summer tip for you. Besides the trail to the ridge, you can also head towards a natural waterfall that supplies the lake itself. If the glacial shower doesn't cool you down, then nothing else will.