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Extraordinary immersion under and on the Robert lakes
In Chamrousse, DiveXtreme offers a unique winter adventure: ice diving in the evening followed by a starlit night’s camping in a bivouac on the frozen lake at an altitude of over 2000 metres.
This nocturnal odyssey amplifies the daring nature of the experience, guaranteeing a soul-stirring immersion and a profound connection with the wild.
We don’t take any chances with the equipment, slipping into thick diving suits like astronauts and fitting heavy duty latex gloves to make sure we’re completely waterproof. We’re weighted down so we can sink properly. Once we’re fully kitted out, we carefully dive into the frozen lake.
Surprisingly, it doesn’t feel that cold once you’re in. The icy waters beneath the thick crust of snow and ice feel almost like a warm bath.
Memorable moments
A magical nocturnal show
Underwater, the sensations during a night dive are distinctly different from those of the day. The darkness feels more profound, creating an undeniably unique experience – almost as if you’re exploring an entirely different lake. The challenge is exhilarating – a chance to push your limits.
The spectacle beneath the ice remains hypnotic, magical and utterly disconcerting.
Another world
Silence reigns supreme, giving the impression of being transported to another world. Small bubbles gently form as they meet the frozen surface above. Moving weightlessly, arms raised to remain vertical, divers immerse themselves in this natural masterpiece crafted by Mother Nature.
Guided by experienced instructors like Thibault or Tanguy, you breathe deeply, let go of all distractions and surrender to the magic of the lake.
Back on the ice, moving with the grace of a sea lion (albeit a well-equipped and weighted one), we return to the surface and head to the nearby refuge by the lakes to change.
Then comes the fondue preparation, while the Milky Way casts a mystical glow over the lake. In this enchanting atmosphere, we enjoy every mouthful of fondue – the best I’ve ever tasted – perfectly paired with delicious white wine.
Then it’s time to retreat to our tent, securely anchored to the ice with special screws.
Dreamlike night in a bivouac
Wrapped in the warmth of a thick sleeping bag, we let the gentle wind and murmur of the ice lull us into serene slumber. Our bivouac on the Robert lakes feels surreal, as if we’re living in a dream. Yet as we pinch ourselves, reality sets in – we’re enveloped by a deep sense of warmth and tranquillity.
The next morning, a fine mist glides across the lake, casting a mystical veil over the frozen landscape. At the lakeside refuge, a delicious breakfast awaits: steaming hot tea and croissants. Then it’s time to bid farewell and begin our descent back into the valley.
We’ve just lived through one of those rare moments in life that transcend the ordinary suspended between reality and fantasy.