Best lakes around Vauclaix are found within the Morvan Regional Natural Park, a region in the Nièvre department of central France. Vauclaix serves as a base for exploring the diverse lakes of the Morvan. These artificial lakes, created in the 19th and 20th centuries for water supply and timber transportation, now offer recreational activities and natural landscapes. The area is known for its numerous lakes, providing various outdoor experiences.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight (Segment) • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
The Ouroux-en-Morvan pond offers an ideal setting for a relaxing break by the water. A small, shaded path circles the pond. You'll find several spots for picnics and simply enjoying the surroundings.
0
0
Not for regular bikes, only for mountain bikers. Bring wellington boots.
0
0
very impressive lake and beautiful scenery.
1
0
Pond in the heart of the village, close to all shops and services, wooded on the south side and bordered by a small picturesque road to the north.
0
0
This beautiful pond is surrounded by hiking trails, a children's playground and an arboretum.
2
0
At the edge of the forest is this pretty little pond with alder groves on its plans.
2
0
When you reach this pond, you will be struck by the fact that it is enclosed in the forest, as if the pond is there just for you, hidden away. The pond is often so calm that its surface is like glass.
2
0
The lakes around Vauclaix are primarily artificial reservoirs, originally created in the 19th and 20th centuries for water supply and timber transportation. Today, they offer diverse experiences, from bustling recreational hubs to tranquil, natural settings within the Morvan Regional Natural Park.
Yes, several lakes are great for families. Étang Chaumail is surrounded by hiking trails and features a children's playground. Ouroux-en-Morvan pond also offers a shaded path and picnic spots, perfect for a relaxing family break. Étang du Moulin du Bois is another lovely spot at the edge of a forest, ideal for a peaceful outing.
Many lakes offer excellent walking opportunities. Étang Chaumail has surrounding hiking trails. Ouroux-en-Morvan pond features a shaded path circling the water. For more extensive routes, you can explore the trails around Lac de Pannecière, known for its magnificent scenery, or Lac de Chaumeçon, which offers a tranquil ambiance for walks. You can find various running and walking routes in the area, such as those listed in the Running Trails around Vauclaix guide.
While specific designated wild swimming spots are not detailed, the Morvan lakes, including Lac des Settons and Lac de Saint-Agnan, are popular for various water activities. Lac des Settons is known for its active water sports, and Lac de Saint-Agnan's numerous small coves might offer more secluded spots for a dip. Always check local regulations and safety guidelines before swimming in natural waters.
Yes, Lac du Crescent is particularly renowned among anglers, especially those targeting carnivorous fish. Its wild character makes it a popular choice for a more rugged fishing experience.
The lakes are beautiful year-round, but the best time depends on your preferred activities. Spring and summer are ideal for water sports, hiking, and enjoying the bustling atmosphere of places like Lac des Settons. Autumn offers stunning foliage, while winter can provide a serene, quiet experience for those interested in winter hiking, though amenities might be more limited.
Absolutely. The Morvan region is excellent for cycling. You can find numerous road cycling and gravel biking routes that take you around the lakes. For example, the Road Cycling Routes around Vauclaix guide includes tours like the 'View of Lac du Crescent – Lac de Chaumeçon loop' and the 'Lac de Pannecière loop'. The Gravel biking around Vauclaix guide also offers challenging routes around lakes like Pannecière and Settons.
Lac de Pannecière, as the largest of the Morvan lakes, is celebrated for its magnificent and expansive scenery. Covering 520 hectares, it provides breathtaking views and is perfect for visitors who appreciate majestic landscapes and vast open waters.
Yes, the Chaumeçon Dam is a notable man-made monument built in the 1930s. While not towering, it creates a stunning lake with views of islands and forests, offering a glimpse into the region's engineering history.
Visitors frequently praise the tranquil and natural beauty of the lakes. Many appreciate the feeling of being immersed in nature, with highlights like Étang Chaumail being described as 'enclosed in the forest, as if the pond is there just for you, hidden away.' The breathtaking scenery and peaceful atmosphere are consistently highlighted.
Lac de Chaumeçon is known for its tranquil and soothing ambiance, making it an excellent choice for relaxation and unwinding amidst nature. For those seeking a sense of discovery, Lac de Saint-Agnan, surrounded by forests and meadows, offers numerous small coves that evoke a feeling of untouched nature and exploration.
While specific cafes are not listed for every lake, Ouroux-en-Morvan pond is located in the heart of the village, close to shops and services, making it convenient for finding refreshments. Lac des Settons, being a popular tourist destination, also offers a lively 'seaside resort' atmosphere, suggesting more amenities are available there.


Still not found your perfect lake around Vauclaix? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.