Mottets (Lake Bourget)

Mottets (Lake Bourget) is a low-profile lake spot near Viviers-du-Lac with clean freshwater and generally flat-to-choppy conditions. Riders typically rely on the lake’s mountain-influenced wind patterns, including a late-afternoon thermal component often described as 'la Traverse', alongside directional/frontal-driven days. For kitesurfing, the wind is reported across N to NNE/NE and also W, with the most consistent months commonly cited as April, May, and June (and summer thermal conditions described as strong during June to September at the wider lake). The thermal window is generally late afternoon into evening, roughly from mid-afternoon and building into 5:00 PM–9:00 PM. Wind levels are commonly reported in the ~8–20 knots range with gusts that can reach higher values, and turbulence can develop close to shore near the launch. Despite the generally calm surface described for the lake, the launch itself is technical: it is narrow with limited kite space and nearby land features such as trees and a road. Environmental protection also matters—there are protected reed/biotope zones where landing/riding is forbidden (notably at the south end), so riders must stay inside the designated kite zone. Seasonal access matters for safety planning: kitesurfing is not allowed during summer at this specific location, even though the wider lake region can have strong wind in summer. Rescue availability is limited, and because the water can become deep shortly after leaving the shore, experienced self-rescue capability is recommended. Emergency services can be reached via 112, with medical facilities available in the nearby Aix-les-Bains/Chambéry area.