Europa_Frankrijk_Lac de Sainte Croix

On a journey of discovery along the most beautiful lakes in France

Europe
Published on March 29, 2022updated on February 1, 2025

There are approximately 347 lakes in France. They range in size from small to large and are often called "Lac" or "Étang." This blog post highlights some of the most beautiful lakes that are definitely worth a visit.

The clear blue water of Lac d'Annecy

Lake Annecy is located in the Haute-Savoie region, near the town of Annecy. While you're here, be sure to visit this fairytale-like city. Annecy has a Venetian feel thanks to the water flowing through it.

The lake itself boasts beautiful, clear blue water. Around the lake, there are several spots where you can swim and then relax on the grass. Plenty of campsites are located around the lake, offering a beautiful setting for camping. Don't forget to visit the charming castle at Duingt, beautifully situated on the waterfront. Thanks to the well-maintained cycle paths around the lake, you'll encounter many cyclists.

Algemene tip

Camping La Chapelle Saint Claude

Deze middelgrote camping ligt aan de oostkant en direct aan het meer. Deze camping is vooral geschikt voor gezinnen en mensen die rust zoeken.

View on Google Maps
Algemene tip

Les Jardins Du Taillefer

This small, quiet campsite is nestled in greenery near the lake and offers several tents for rent. The campsite restaurant offers vegetarian dishes.

View on Google Maps
Europa_Frankrijk_Annecy_stad
Europa_Frankrijk_Annecy_stad2
Europa_Frankrijk_Annecy_lake

Water sports at the tranquil glacial lake du Bourget

Lake Bourget is the largest glacial lake in France and is located in the French Alps, in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. It takes about 45 minutes to drive from Lake Annecy to Lake Bourget. Lake Bourget is considered less touristy and more peaceful. It is especially popular with water sports enthusiasts, offering a variety of activities such as water skiing, wakeboarding, sailing, rowing, and canoeing. You can also swim in the beautiful blue water, rent a boat to explore the lake, or simply stroll through the surrounding greenery if you're not a water sports enthusiast.

Algemene tip

La Grande Mollière Belvedere

From this viewpoint you have a beautiful view over the lake.

View on Google Maps
Europa_Frankrijk_Bourget1
Europa_Frankrijk_Bourget2

Explore Embrun and the beautiful Lac de Serre-Ponçon

The Serre-Ponçon reservoir is located in the Hautes-Alpes region. The lake is perfect for both those seeking peace and quiet and those seeking adventure. On the lake itself, you can go stand-up paddleboarding or boating, and there are several beaches around the lake where you can relax. There are also several spots around the lake where you can go rafting and hike in the mountains. The nearby town of Embrun, also known as the "Little Nice of the Alps," is definitely worth a visit.

Europa_Frankrijk_Embrun1
Europa_Frankrijk_Embrun2
Europa_Frankrijk_Lac de Serre-Ponçon

Beautiful Lac de Sainte-Croix and the impressive Gorges du Verdon

This reservoir is best known for the nearby Gorges du Verdon. This second-largest gorge in the world is truly impressive. You can enjoy the view from the bridge and swim or canoe in the beautiful blue water. Both the parking lot and the beaches get quite busy during peak season. The lake is located on the border of the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence and the Var region. Numerous pleasant, refreshing swimming spots can be found around the reservoir.

photo-1567890870347-2c0d322fd785
Europa_Frankrijk_Gorges de Verdon_2

Bluer than blue in the heart of Provence

Near the aforementioned Lac de Sainte-Croix, you'll find Lac de Castillon. The water here is exceptionally clear blue. In the small village of Saint-Julie-du-Verdon (Alpes-de-Haute-Provence region), you'll find a beach where you can swim and enjoy the view of part of the lake. You can also relax and swim in one of the inlets surrounding the lake.

Algemene tip

Camping Notre-Dame

This peaceful campsite is situated on a stream and offers shady pitches. The campsite is close to the charming village of Castellane.

View on Google Maps
Algemene tip

Camping Municipal Les Iscles

This campsite is located on the north side of the lake in the village of Saint-André-les-Alpes and is slightly larger than the campsite mentioned above.

View on Google Maps
Europa_Frankrijk_Lac de Castillon

From Lake Annecy to the Gorges du Verdon, France's lakes offer nature, relaxation, and adventure.


Useful information

  • Official language: French

  • Currency: Euro

  • Best time to visit: during the France summer if you want good (sunny) weather.

The Active Sloth ©2025
Back to top