You'll never forget the road to Lac de Cema
France, europe
0.9 km
2,745 m
moderate
Year-round
# Lac de Céma: Alpine Adventure at the Top of France
Tucked away in the Savoie department of southeastern France, near the Italian border, Lac de Céma sits at a breathtaking 2,745 meters (9,005 feet) above sea level. This stunning high-altitude lake is nestled in the heart of the Graian Alps within the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region.
The journey here starts from Col de l'Iseran—yes, that's the legendary "King of the Alps"—where you'll take the Chemin du Pissaillas for just 900 meters (0.55 miles) to reach the lake. It's a short but scenic drive that ranks among France's highest roads, ending at a spacious parking lot near La Cascade restaurant, the perfect spot to grab a bite after your climb.
Fair warning: the road is mostly paved, but Mother Nature hasn't been kind to it. Heavy snow takes its toll, leaving the surface pretty potholed and rough in places. If you're feeling adventurous, an unpaved track climbs even higher to the west, reaching 2,793 meters (9,163 feet) for those seeking extra elevation bragging rights.
The catch? This road is strictly a summer affair, typically open from May or June through October, so plan your visit accordingly. But when conditions are right, the alpine scenery and crisp mountain air make every bump worth it.
Where is it?
You'll never forget the road to Lac de Cema is located in France (europe). Coordinates: 45.9509, 2.4562
Road Details
- Country
- France
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 0.9 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,745 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 45.9509, 2.4562
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