Lac de la Plagne

Lac de la Plagne is an artificial reservoir situated in the Tarentaise Valley of the French Alps, within the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. Created in the mid-20th century, it serves primarily for hydroelectric power generation and is a notable feature of the Vanoise Massif. The lake and its surrounding area, part of the larger La Plagne ski domain, have become a significant hub for tourism and outdoor recreation.

Geography

Lac de la Plagne is located at an altitude of approximately 2000 meters on the eastern slopes of the Bellecôte mountain, within the Savoie department. It lies in a glacial cirque overlooking the Isère river valley, near the commune of Aime-la-Plagne. The reservoir is bordered by high alpine peaks such as Roche de Mio and is situated within the peripheral zone of the Vanoise National Park. The geology of the area is characterized by sedimentary rock formations typical of the External Crystalline Massifs.

Hydrology

The lake is a reservoir impounded by the Barrage de la Plagne, an embankment dam constructed on the Torrent de la Plagne. Its primary inflow and outflow is this same torrent, a tributary of the Ponturin, which eventually feeds into the Isère. The reservoir's water is primarily used for hydroelectricity production by facilities operated by Électricité de France (EDF), forming part of the Haute-Isère hydroelectric scheme. Water levels fluctuate seasonally, influenced by snowmelt and power generation demands.

History

The construction of the dam and creation of Lac de la Plagne was undertaken between 1968 and 1971, concurrent with the major development of the La Plagne ski resort by architects Michel Bezançon and Laurent Chappis. This period marked a significant phase of post-war development in the Tarentaise, driven by the Plan Neige national initiative to promote winter sports. The area was historically used for summer pasturage before its transformation. The infrastructure project was a collaboration between local authorities, the Compagnie Nationale du Rhône, and the Caisse des Dépôts et Consignations.

Tourism and Recreation

Integrated into the vast Paradiski ski area, the lake's shores are a focal point for winter sports, with access provided by the Bellecôte and Roche de Mio gondola lifts. It serves as a scenic start point for off-piste itineraries like the Vallée de la Plagne and hosts events such as the Ice Cross Downhill competition. In summer, the area is popular for hiking, with trails connecting to Col de la Chiaupe and Aime-la-Plagne, and for mountain biking on routes like the Tour du Lac. Nearby amenities include the Altiport de la Plagne and restaurants like Le Matafan.

Environmental Aspects

The lake's management involves balancing hydroelectric production with environmental flows to protect the Torrent de la Plagne ecosystem. Its location near the Vanoise National Park necessitates adherence to regulations protecting local alpine flora and fauna, including species like the Alpine ibex and Alpine marmot. Water quality is monitored due to its role in the Isère catchment. Environmental considerations are part of the broader management plan for the Grand Domaine de la Plagne, addressing impacts from tourism and climate change on the alpine environment.

Category:Reservoirs in France Category:La Plagne Category:Landforms of Savoie