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The smaller Vieux Emosson lake which lies in a combe further to the west was dammed in 1950, then in 1975 the Barberine dam was superseded by a massive 150m high barrage created as part of a joint Franco-Swiss hydro scheme. This effectively drowned that part of the valley which had survived the initial flooding, including a number of chalets and an inn. Yet despite its effect on the valley, in truth the dam wall is not only a fine piece of civil engineering, but it makes an extraordinary vantage point, having an uninterrupted outlook to Mont Blanc in one direction, and to the Tour Sallière and the lake in the other. But it is also noteworthy for another reason – a line of holds has been fitted to make this one of the most impressive artificial climbing walls in the Alps.

On the east side of the lake a track extends towards the head of the valley, with a path cutting away from it two-thirds of the way along. This path climbs northeastward to the broad Col de Barberine (2481m) which lies at the southern end of the Pointes d’Abboillon, and is a wonderful viewpoint. In order to create a full day’s circular walk, it would be possible to descend from the col into the Vallon d’Emaney, and wander down that valley as far as the Emaney chalets at 1855m, then return to Col de Gueulaz and Lac d’Emosson by way of Col de Fenestral (2451m).