The Abarines bridge is located on the edge of the Lozere and Gard departments in South France. Enjoy a leisurely stroll, set up camp, picnic, or simply sit by the banks to relax when you visit. It is surrounded by mountains and offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding area. Do you dream of going green after these months of confinement? It is nearly 35 kilometers long and was built in the 1970s. Apart from the scenery, Lac du Bourget is also known for its pure clean water as well as being a great site for fishing. Latest Lakes for sale - Leggett Immobilier French property for sale,buying french properties, homes in France,chateau,immobilier,gite,water mills,france villas,houses, homes in France,property for sale in France,farmhouses,fermettes,manoir,barns,water mills,houses for sale . The Salagou is the reservoir of the eponymous dam. The Gorge du Verdon is located in the very north of the Var department, approximately 40kms north-west of Draguignan and 1.5 hours west of Cannes and Nice. We have therefore prepared a small selection of the best swimming lakes in France. Some of it are natural while some are man-made, created for a variety of purposes such as dams, reservoirs, and as a means for flood control. laid out. The best swimming lakes in France. In the last few years a lot of money has been spent developing the surrounding area, including providing a large car park, a lovely visitor centre (where you can grab a cool beer and ice cream) and a life guard look out post. We offer a peaceful fishing experience set in beautiful surroundings. Surrounded by both mountainous areas and gentle hills, Lac de Serre-Poncon is a stunning sight to behold at any time of the year. All you could see was paddles floating downstream, upturned canoes, people floating past with life jackets on or clinging to rocks. Its white dunes, the forests surrounding it, and wild marshes give it an undeniable charm. Lac. During the winter the water level is very high, but during July and August, the water recedes and offers plenty of places for swimming and jumping in off the rocks. Whether youve got your sights on a family-friendly resort in Holland or a campsite in the South of France, the HolidayParkSpecials travel blog is the go-to guide for inspiration! Lake Annecy, Haute-Savoie 4. One for fishing, one for wind surfing and the middle lake for swimming. Lake Pareloup, Aveyron 6. Lac dAllos is the largest natural high altitude lake in Europe, situated in the heart of the Mercantour National Park. If you have a valid fishing license, you can even fish on the lake! Dont forget to do the best hiking in Haute-Savoie. Its fun to just sit there and be massaged and pummelled by the water. This 30m high rocky arch which has been eroded out by the river fromthe rock provides an excellent base for canoeing, swimming and a river-side picnic. A large portion of the water in this lake comes from melting snow from the peaks of the stunning cirque around it. Discover the endless beaches, local markets, lush vineyards and chilled out pace of life in the Languedoc. Also, it shelters very little fauna and flora ten meters deep. Source de la Sorgue. However, that doesnt make it less of beauty and is still among the best lakes in France. Grand Lieu Lake 9. But outside of the bustling coastlines, France has many azure lakes, fresh springs and flowing waterfalls; absolutely perfect for not only a refreshing summer break, but theyre also more than ideal if you wish to try your hand at wild swimming in France. Scattered with Lavender fields and the classic smell of Provence, the gorge is over a thousand years old and is no less than 25km long. Its rivers, lakes and waterfalls are some of the cleanest in Europe and the summers are reliably warm - in the south at least. France has some incredible reservoirs and unlike Britain where theyve all been fenced off and people have been banned from swimming in them, France has embraced them. Like youre getting something for free. This makes it one of the eight most beautiful lakes to swim in France. The Gorges de Toulourenc, is located below Mont Ventoux, close to the villages of Bdoin and Malaucne in Provence. Others we were told about by local residents. Please also check the latest publications of the regional authorities, The swims at Les Quis are meant for all types of carp fishing. Check out our best swimming lakes ! A unique fauna abounds around the lake, located in the middle of natural scenery! Corsica is paradise for wild swimming. We have lived in the South of France for over 17 years now and during that time we have discovered some great places to take our 3 boys swimming during the hot summer months. Discover now the most beautiful beaches in France! Over the years, we have always stumbled across some great places to enjoy a picnic and then cool off in the water. Indeed the teacher of my eldest son even wrote a song about Salgou! There tends to be less tourists around in the evening and it is nice and cool to stroll around the old streets - it really is an amazing spot. Pike, carp, trout, mollusks, snakes, ducks, voles, and many more will be seen on site. It is nicknamed "the pearl of the Vosges", situated at an altitude of 660m, at the foot of the city of Gerardmer. recreation is often closer than you think. *Water quality is based on the annual report of the European Environment Agency EEA. on the lake It has over 1.5 kilometers of fine white sand that you're sure to enjoy. Still the adrenalin junkies will love it. The Verdon Gorge, in Provence The Millevaches regional park is one of the highlights of Limousin. Lac du Drennec is situated near Commana and is perfect for families who want to combine hiking with one of the best swimming lakes in northern France. Hi, Im Christine a full-time traveler and career woman. Bay Lake (14 acres in size, lots of 30, 40, 50lb carp). Badesee Europa-Park Lakes 7. The best spots to try it in France: In Languedoc-Roussillon, the birthplace of kiteboarding, the area offers a wide variety of seaside spots between Saint-Cyprien and Port-la-Nouvelle. Pareloup is located on the plateau of Lvzou, between the cities of Rodez and Millau, at nearly eight hundred meters above sea level. Sometimes I make music too! It has depths ranging from 1,5m to 3m and it has an attractive stock of 300 fish with carp up to 25kg (56lb). One of the best swimming lakes in Florida is Rainbow Springs as it's located in one of Florida's most stunning state parks. France offers many beautiful and natural bathing lakes in a unique natural landscape. One of the most beautiful lakes in France, Lake Annecy is surrounded by snowcapped mountains and plenty of sandy beaches. It is a good spot for windsurfing and sailing and there is a good half day cycle trail around the shore. Alternatively, you can also take a cable car from the Bridge of Spain to reach this lake. Swimmers can soak themselves in the natural water which is usually warmed up to 26C by the summer sun. Why not just stay a little longer? The South of France has an abundance of good places for wild swimming - be it lakes, cool rivers or rocky waterfalls. But the most beautiful spectacle remains the landscape. From the bridge you can look down on these incredible emerald waters. cup of coffee at the lake, Lake Salagou is a bit like marmite, you either love it or you can't see what all the fuss is all about. There are hiking trails around Lake Gerardmer which are perfect spots for watching the sunrise or sunset. Top 10 swimming lakes in France Whether it's camping at Lac d'Annecy or a beach vacation on the French Riviera, France offers a variety of beautiful swimming options. This reservoir is a tourist attraction easily accessible from Bziers, Montpellier, or Ste. Check out Where to stay in South of France, Check out the Pont du Gard aqueduct bridge to visit. Travel is a great way to develop youth and to unite couples. Lake Annecy, Haute-Savoie4. results are submitted annually to the European Environment Agency. Easily accessible from the medieval city, Lac de la Cavayere is ideal for a relaxing [], COPYRIGHT 2023 JOURNEY TO FRANCE | Birch on Trellis Framework by Mediavine, 11 Best Lakes In France That You Must Visit, https://www.facebook.com/Journey-To-France-100107831746499/. You will find Lake Salagou close to the town of Clermont d'Hearault, just off the A75. It will undoubtedly provide you with an unusual experience in a splendid landscape. Known for the low, tree-covered mountains that surround it, the lake attracts visitors year-round from all . Unfortunately, no values are yet available for the year 2022. The best location on the lake is close to the village of Octon, on the Western edge. The most impressive part of the canyon can be found between the towns of Castellane and Moustiers-Sainte-Marie. Swimming is supervised and barbecues are available for your picnic. Personally, I am in the last category. The Gorges de Loup is a very pretty part of the river. At Pont du Diable a huge pool forms beneath the impressive old bridge at the base of a canyon. You will only really find these active in the winter (when you would have to be deranged to consider swimming in the river). Indeed the teacher of my eldest son even wrote a song about Salgou! From inexpensive to the upper price range are different Swim under the uniquely imposing landmark that is Chenonceaux, Crashing waterfalls abound in this rural Jura beauty spot, Hot springs give the Lac dAnnecy some of the warmest waters in the Alps, You'll enjoy a devilishly fun swim down at Pont d'Arc, You can even slide down the limestone cliffs at Cascade du Sautadet, Corsica's volcanic history makes for some incredible rocks and pools, Lac dIlay: where lush greenery meets incredibly idyllic waters, On a good day you'll have crystal clear waters in Lac de Serre-Ponon, The beautiful waterfalls, the eye-catching gorges and the man-made reservoirs make France a haven for wild swimmers. The lake is an all-around wonderful place to explore the great outdoors. Nowadays, Lake Salagou offers many water activities. Husaband and I will be on our annual trip to Valbonne,Provence visiting friends early September with a car and planning to spend 10 days and eventually drive to Barcelona.I love to swim in fresh clear water ( like New York's Lake George and Skaneateles lake, and Italy's lake Garda).Any recommendations of that kind of very clean, naturally beautiful , not overdeveloped lake where we could stay . rowing boat to a boat trip across the lake, diving, fishing, water skiing or simply . The lake was created in the 1970s as a result of a dam. Our boys were quite small back then, so we took them for an ice cream down by the beach near the Pont d'Arc. I would certainly advise you to wander back into Anduze after a day on the river. The Hrault is one of the most important rivers of the Massif Central and Languedoc region. Gorge du Verdon [Photo courtesy of www.instagram.com/gorgesduverdon/]In France's equivalent of the Grand Canyon, you will find a turquoise blue river with plenty of shade from the surrounding cliffs. 9.4% achieved a good water quality. Ancien canal du Verdon. Need to blow in the mountains? But the water has carved out these incredible teardrop plunge pools that are like a bathtub you might find in an Arab palace. Lake Saint-Cassien, Var 5. Posted in Tourism. "The one I particularly like is Le Gour Bleu, a perfect plunge piscine set in a wooded glade with beach and a waterfall. Roquebrun is located close to Saint Chinian, 25mins north-west of Beziers. It has stunning blue water ripples in some parts, while the rest are like are fine crystal. There are also a couple of small beaches, which are ideal for swimming in the lake. Landscaped lawns, swimming pool, shaded copses and seated areas all in your own secret angling paradise. If you are staying in the South of France on holiday this summer and you do not have the luxury of your own private pool, then you maybe interested in finding some great places to cool off from the hot South of France sun. Not far from Lake Annecy is easily one of the most famous lakes in Europe - Lake Geneva, it's also one of the largest lakes on the continent-spanning both France and Switzerland. Lake Bourget is today one of the jewels of the region. Summer is fast approaching, and many holidaymakers are flocking to the coast of France. There is a smaller course fishing lake with a variety of species and carp to 20lbs. Lac de Guerldan is the biggest artificial lake in Brittany, and perfect for long hikes and relaxing afternoons. There is plenty of parking in the Visitor centre car park (on the Northern side of the river) or you can take your luck along the road on the Southern side of the river. The fabulous Bamboo Gardens are located in Anduze (see Bambouseraie). Although Im from the Philippines, my location independent career took me to over 40 countries and lived in 4 continents in the last 10 years, including France. Crater Lake. This original place has been completely redesigned and fitted out to welcome you. A camping vacation is an experience for the whole family. Lake Saint-Cassien, Var5. If youre looking for somewhere to stay, theres a large variety of holiday parks nearby. The small river that runs through the Gorges de Toulourenc provides really refreshing crystal clear water. Styled like an English garden, this park features bridges, fountains historic statues, lots of flowers, and a lovely lake. Hence, that was the last time my cycling mates saw me in Lycra. Lake of O. No problem! The water is very clean and surprisingly quite warm. Just under this famous Roman aqueduct there is a rocky beach and nice cool river. The views and the relaxing atmosphere make it one of the best lakes in France to visit if youre looking for a scenic escape from touristy areas. It . Lake Winnebago. Cascades du Sautadet Located near La-Roque-sur-Cze village, labeled as one of the most beautiful villages in France, Cascades du Sautadet are a series of incredible waterfalls formed by the Ceze river. As for the landscapes around it, there is something to take your breath away from! You can swim around and under the waterfall. Wild Swimming France, written by Daniel Start, reveals 1,000 of the country's most magical wild swimming spots, taking the reader on an 'aquatic voyage into the wild heart of one of Europe's most . Lake Salagou, Hrault7. The river Loup is actually quite a long river. Contact Iain byEmailif you have any particular questions you would like to ask about visiting the South of France. The staff are wonderfully welcoming and the setting is stunning . Reviewed 29 July 2015 . Early in the morning with a Aydat Lake, Puy-De-Dome, Auvergne. Here are our Top 10 favourite places for swimming in the South of France. From the banks of the lake you can take out a canoe and paddle up the ravine under the Pont du Diable. from 2021 was 4.5. You would benefit from shoes designed for slippery surfaces here. Lac Du Tard is a stunning 14 acre lake with an island, set in the famous Champagne region of France - just ten minutes from the market town of Vitry le Francois, and an easy 4 hour drive (with a stop) from the ports of Calais and Dunkerque. The south-west tail of the lake, near the Cimetire dUbaye (D954), 6km west of Le Lauzet-Ubaye, is one the least populated with grassland, silver shale beaches, warm water and cliffs and gorges for snorkelling and jumping (Lat Long: 44.4644, 6.3580). It can be quite difficult to access, but once you arrive, youll be met with sheer beauty. So, do not hesitate to take a short walk or a picnic with family or friends. The lake is ideal for a nice day trip out of the city or crowded areas, with lush forests and hills surrounding it. The bridge dates back over 900 years and originally was built by monks from the nearby monasteries at Aniane and St Guilhem le Desert. does not make any recommendation. Elf Lake (9.5 acres in size, mostly 30lb+ carp). On the River Gardon in between the towns of St Jean du Gard and Anduze, close to the village of Mialet, you will find a wonderful stone bridge designed by Monsieur Eiffel (of the Paris Tower fame). Personally, I am in the latter category. So to placate them we took them further down river to where the Arch is located. Just below the lovely village of St Guilhem le Desert, the river Herault has been partially dammed forming a small lake. There is also an excellent restaurant here called L'Auberge du Presbytre. 3.9 ha. Known for its shimmering waters, Lake Gerardmer is located in the heart of the Ballon des Vosges Regional Natural Park. Apart from the scenery, the lake is home to some 270 species of birds, and diverse fauna and flora. This reservoir was created following the construction of a dam in the 1950s. Whilst its actually not advised to swim in the Sillans-la-Cascade, despite many of the locals doing so anyway, you can find another pool further down which is safer. Lake Pavin. It also has a kiosk where you can hire pedalos (complete with water slides on the back. Perched on the edge of the river Orb and framed by a giant rocky spur behind, Roquebrun is a great place to spend an afternoon. Some of the pools are deep enough for jumping in from the nearby rocks (although for diving please see comments in relation to swimming in the river in winter!!). Set among rolling hills and alpine foothills this is a beautiful lake. They then slept like Pandas on the way home. Tags: Beaches South France, Cote d'Azur, Provence France, Tourism South France, Languedoc South France. The boys all kicked-off because we had just driven 2 hours and they wanted to canoe. 625,000. The best french lakes where you can practice water sports. On the River Gardon in between the towns of St Jean du Gard and Anduze, close to the village of Mialet, you will find a wonderful stone bridge which legend has it was designed by Gustave Eiffel (of the Paris Tower fame). When we went to the Gorge du Verdon we rented a boat from a kiosk on the Lac de Sainte-Croix and then paddles our way into the gorge. Visitors can also cruise through the lake by kayak, as there are facilities around the lake for it. But right now we cant think of a better reason to indulge in a spot of Francophilia than the fact that the country is such a mecca for wild swimming. It is nicknamed the pearl of the Vosges, situated at an altitude of 660m, at the foot of the city of Gerardmer. We now have 26 top quality French carp fishing venues with accommodation. Situated in the Loire-Atlantique region, the Grand-Lieu Lake is the only National Nature Reserve in the area. Still the adrenaline junkies will love it. Situated deep in the Argoat forest, this lake is the perfect family-friendly break, with plenty to do in the area, whether thats fishing, canoeing, or cycling. France, Cote d'Azur, Provence France, Cote d'Azur, Provence France, Tourism South France check... Provides really refreshing crystal clear water somewhere to stay, theres a large portion of the most lakes! A smaller course fishing lake with a Aydat lake, Puy-De-Dome, Auvergne saw in... Beaches South France, lake Annecy is surrounded by mountains and plenty of sandy beaches Anduze after day... And originally was built in the 1950s Lozere and Gard departments in South France for wild swimming - it! For your picnic green after these months of confinement by kayak, as are! Are yet available for the low, tree-covered mountains that surround it the... 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