The Fond d’Aussois

As you begin the steep descent to the Fond d´Aussois, look out for this example of a large-scale glacial basin. Imagine for a moment the glacier descending from the Col d’Aussois: its flow is slowed by the narrowing of the valley, further increasing its erosive power. A depression is created. As the ice melts, a lake is created and fills by accumulating fluvio-lacustrine alluvium. Once completely filled, the site of the lake is occupied by a very flat plain where the Saint Benoit stream gently flows today.