Lake Javen, a family destination from Megève
Nestling in a lush green setting between the Alps, the Lake Javen is a popular destination from Megève for families in search of outdoor activities. This high-altitude lake offers the ideal setting for a successful outing of relaxation and fun activities.
A man-made lake in the heart of an unspoilt natural landscape
Lake Javen is not a natural lake, but was built to supply water to the snow cannons of the Côte 2000 ski area. Despite its technical origins, this lake has become one of Megève's tourist gems. Located just 1,397 metres above sea level, It blends harmoniously into the surrounding mountain landscape.
The backdrop to the lake is the Aravis mountains, Aiguilles de Varans, the delicate Aiguilles Croches line and the Mont Joly range. This privileged geographical location makes it a remarkable vantage point from which to admire the iconic peaks of the region.
Access and practical details
Access options
There are several ways to reach Lake Javen:
From the centre of Megève : Faced with Megève Tourism, Follow the signs for the Musée du Haut Val d'Arly, continue along the route des Perchets and after a short climb turn right towards the Chemin de Lady. Then follow the signs for Le Tour and Lac de Javen.
Parking options :
- Park at la Rée, towards Mont d'Arbois, then turn towards Lac de Javen along the Chemin de la Rée, parking after the bridge. 20 min walk to get to the lake
- Park in the Hameau du Tour (small car park opposite the ski lift). 30 min walk to get to the lake
Public transport : Possibility of borrowing Meg'bus (according to the current timetable), from the bus station and/or the «patinoire de plein air» stop to the «l'angne» stop below the Maz chapel.
Opening times and access conditions
From 01/05 to 01/11. Until 30 September: Access to the lake closed from Monday to Wednesday inclusive. Access to the lake and surrounding area is prohibited after 7pm.
Activities on offer
Fishing
Lake Javen offers a fishing activity supervised and open to all. Private high-altitude lake, regulated fishing, fishing rights payable to the Javen d'en haut restaurant. Equipment supplied. Catch sold by the kilo. Fishing accessible to all, young and old.
2025 pricing : Loan of equipment for €8. Fishing rights 10 € per day. Fly-fishing rights: €10 per day (you must bring your own equipment).
Fishing season : From 01/05 to 20/06/2025, every Friday, Saturday and Sunday. From 01/07 to 31/08/2025, every day. From 01/09 to 30/09/2025, every Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
Family activities
The lake has games for children with swing, turnstile and sandpit. This safe play area allows the youngest children to have fun while their parents enjoy the mountain setting.
The site is ideal for family picnics, This is the perfect place to relax, with landscaped areas and breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks.
On-site catering
Restaurant Javen d'en Haut
Located at 1370 chemin de la Rée, the traditional Javen d'en Haut restaurant is open from 9am to 6pm, Monday to Sunday. This establishment offers a traditional cuisine in an authentic mountain setting.
La Petite Fontaine
La Petite Fontaine offers local cuisine in a remarkable setting. The restaurant, awarded the «Best Fondue of Megève 2024», In summer, it's just a 5-minute walk from Lake Javen.
A la carte prices range from 10 à 25 € (average price of dishes).
Hiking and routes
Family trail
After 30 min walk The lake is just around the corner. The route offers a moderate gradient of around 100 metres, making it accessible to families with children.
Return options
There are several options for the return journey:
- Take the same route and/or a variant via the chemin de Fanou
- Take the carriageway to the Rée bridge
- At the Pont de la Rée, join the Route du Tour, turn right towards Le Maz (400m), opposite the chapel and return to the village along the Chemin du Maz.
The estimated descent time is 1 hour.
Why choose Lake Javen from Chalet Ararat?
For guests of the Chalet Ararat, Lake Javen represents a ideal excursion to discover the surrounding countryside with your family. The site's proximity and ease of access make it an ideal destination for a half-day or full day of outdoor activities.
La diversity of activities The range of activities on offer - fishing, children's games, quality restaurants and hiking - means there's something for everyone in the family. The unspoilt mountain setting also gives you the chance to discover the flora and fauna of the Alps in an unforgettable setting. secure environment.
The accessibility of the site, with several parking options and the possibility of using local public transport, makes it easy to organise this outing from Megève.
Practical advice
- Make sure you wear clothing suited to the mountains and the weather.
- Take sun cream and sunglasses with you
- Check opening times, particularly at the beginning and end of the season
- Make advance reservations for restaurants, especially in high season
- Comply with fishing regulations and site access times
Lac de Javen is a must-see destination for families staying in Megève, offering a perfect balance between recreational activities, Discover nature and relax in an unspoilt mountain setting.