There are some incredibly beautiful lakes in France, whether they were created by man or by Mother Nature. Some are enormous and scream to be sailed or surfed. A day (or two) spent at a French lake, whether mountains or undulating hills surround it, will rejuvenate your senses and leave you with memories that will last for years.
List of the Beautiful Lakes in France:
Lake Annecy:
Lake Annecy in the Savoie region has a lively environment, making it the perfect destination for vacationers. Along the paved path around the lake, you may go for a walk or a bike ride, eat at a café by the lake, or rent a boat and go out on the water. Additionally, swimming in the lake is safe without worrying about tainted water. Lake Annecy receives excellent honors for having the purest water in Europe because of stringent environmental laws. One of France's greatest lakes, Lake Annecy, is a picturesque sight. Encircled by picturesque villages and mountains, Annecy is dubbed the "Venice of the Alps."
Lac de Serre-Poncon:
Southeastern France's Lac de Serre-Ponçon offers stunning views of jagged mountains plunging precipitously into the sea. There are additional spots where you may see soft hills flowing into this artificial lake. As part of a flood control project, Lac de Serre-Ponçon, one of Europe's largest artificial lakes, was developed in the 1960s. Sadly, to create room for the lake, several settlements were inundated. Along the lake, which is well-liked by sailors, windsurfers, and swimmers, camping is permitted. Previous tourists advise against visiting this beautiful lake in September due to the highly variable weather.
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Lake Geneva:
Its rich blue water is as smooth as glass in certain areas and ripples in others. It is also always encircled by the Alps. Take a lake cruise to see the charming villages, vineyards, French houses, and Chateau de Challon, a medieval castle. Lake Geneva is one of the most beautiful lakes in France.
Lac de Sainte Croix:
The third-biggest lake in France is not as old as many other French lakes. It began in 1973 with the construction of the Sainte Croix dam across the Verdun River. But there's nothing manufactured about this lake. Nestled amidst hills and woodlands, Lac de Sainte Croix boasts sandy beaches ideal for swimming, along with lifeguards on duty. It's common to kayak, sail, or windsurf around the lake. Boats on the lake may only be propelled by electric motors; sail or human power is not permitted.
Lac du Bourget:
The long, extended Lake du Bourget is thought to be the deepest lake in French territory. Lac du Bourget, which was created by glacial action 19,000 years ago, is encircled on one side by villages and on the other by mountains (located in the Savoie Mont Blanc region). Dent du Chat, which can be accessed by driving up to Relais and hiking to the viewpoint, offers excellent views of the lake. Popular activities surrounding the lake are hiking and biking. There is a lovely beach in Lac du Bourget with alpine views.
Lac d'Aiguebelette:
The name Lac d'Aiguebelette translates to "beautiful little waters," so it makes sense that the lake has been compared to an "emerald pearl." Don't let appearances deceive you—the peacefulness surrounding the blue-green lake is real. This is where rowing contests have been held. One of France's largest natural lakes, Lac d'Aiguebelette is home to multiple hot springs and two islands. Jesus Christ showed up there one day posing as a beggar and requesting assistance. Only one woman was willing to assist him.
Lac du Mont Cenis:
An alpine lake called Lac du Mont Cenis is situated beneath Mount Cenis. Though it is close to the Italian border, it is contained within France. During the Middle Ages, Lac du Mont Cenis, albeit not a lake at the time, was located along an important road that connected Italy and Western Europe. The lake was created artificially when a hydroelectric dam was built at Mont Cenis, and it has lovely blue waters. It's among France's biggest reservoirs. The vegetation around the lake is noteworthy; certain plant types are unique to this area.
Lac de Capitello:
Corsica's addition to France's list of picturesque lakes is Lac de Capitello. It's a little, round alpine lake in the Restonica Valley encircled by rugged rocks. It is Corsica's deepest lake and a great spot to enjoy the gorgeous deep blue water. Typically, a trip to Lac de Melo is accompanied by a visit to Lac de Capitello. The hike to Lac de Capitello, which is around an hour away from Melo, is more difficult than the one leading up to Melo. You'll essentially have the lake to yourself once you arrive in Capitello because, during the summer months, only approximately 1,200 people travel there.
Gaube Lake:
Since the Gascon word "gaube" means "lake," this lovely lake is truly called Lake Lake. Hiking to this small alpine lake takes approximately one hour, but taking the cable car from the Bridge of Spain will get you there faster. Gaube Lake is known as one of the most beautiful lakes in France.
Lac du Salagou:
The creation of Lac du Salagou in the Languedoc region of southern France was not determined by Mother Nature. It was the man. The lake was formed in the 1960s when the Salagou River was dammed. The lake's turquoise water makes a striking contrast to the surrounding reddish-orange dirt, giving visitors a picturesque view. Although you can drive around the lake, walking or biking around it is a great way to appreciate its splendor if you have the time. Sunbathers who enjoy the outdoors are drawn to the lake.
