Best attractions and places to see around Barrage De Saint Agnan include the artificial reservoir Lac de Saint-Agnan, nestled within the Morvan Regional Natural Park in central Burgundy, France. This area is characterized by its dense forests, meadows, and peat bogs, contributing to a wild and scenic landscape. The lake serves as a crucial drinking water source and offers opportunities for outdoor activities. The region features natural landmarks and historical sites, providing diverse points of interest for visitors.
Last updated: October 10, 2026
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Beautiful wild spot that can be partly explored by mountain bike on the northern part of the lake.
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Great place to take a break!
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Saint-Agnan lake is one of the last dams built in the Morvan regional natural park. Running over the top is always a sight to behold.
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If you walk clockwise from Saint-Agnan around the lake of the same name, you will reach a turnoff on the east bank behind the villages of Les Coups and just before Les Michaux, on the lake side, which first leads on a narrow path and later on a new wooden footbridge across the lake. From here you have a beautiful view of the lake, the surrounding horse pastures and the interesting flora and fauna on the shores of Lac de Saint-Agnan.
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From the end of December 1943 to February 20, 1944, twelve resistance fighters found refuge in this chapel, where they lived in harsh conditions.
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The dam is located at the northern end of the lake, it is 1,600 meters long and 16 meters high. It is made of compacted Arena granite. The dam is equipped with a hydroelectric power station managed by the Abbey of Sainte Marie de la Pierre-qui-Vire. There are many colorful flowers on the banks of the dam and you can easily observe lizards here.
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Beautiful route around Lake St. Agnan. For the experienced hiker. About 9 km.
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Good walking shoes required. Soggy route!
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The centerpiece of the area is Lac de Saint-Agnan, an artificial reservoir nestled within the Morvan Regional Natural Park. It's surrounded by dense forests, meadows, and peat bogs, creating a wild and scenic landscape. The dam itself, Barrage de Saint-Agnan, is a notable landmark, featuring a 160-meter long and 16-meter high earth dike.
Yes, the Wooden boardwalk on Lake Saint-Agnan offers a unique walking alternative directly over the lake. This path provides beautiful views of the lake, surrounding horse pastures, and the local flora and fauna. It's a popular spot for enjoying the scenery.
The area is rich in biodiversity. You might spot various birds, and with a little luck, you could see 'wild' horses near the wooden boardwalk. Lizards are also easily observed on the banks of the dam, especially among the colorful flowers.
Numerous trails crisscross the area. A popular option is the roughly 10-kilometer loop around Lac de Saint-Agnan, which takes hikers through forests and open areas. Other trails include the 'Lac de Saint-Agnan — loop in the Parc naturel régional du Morvan' (8.23km) and 'La Pierre-qui-Vire Abbey – Lake Saint-Agnan loop' (11.5km). You can find more detailed routes for hiking and walking in the region on our dedicated guide pages, such as Attractions and Places To See around Barrage De Saint Agnan.
The popular loop trail around Lac de Saint-Agnan is approximately 10 kilometers long. The time it takes to complete depends on your pace, but it generally offers a rewarding experience through diverse landscapes.
Beyond hiking, the area is popular for fishing, with species like pike, zander, and carp found in Lac de Saint-Agnan. Cycling, including mountain biking, is also a favored activity, with various trails available. Non-motorized water sports like windsurfing can also be enjoyed on the lake.
Yes, the region is suitable for various cycling activities. You'll find specific MTB trails and routes for road cycling and gravel biking. For detailed routes and difficulty levels, explore our guides for Road Cycling Routes around Barrage De Saint Agnan, Gravel biking around Barrage De Saint Agnan, and Cycling around Barrage De Saint Agnan.
Yes, Lac de Saint-Agnan is a popular spot for fishing. You can find species such as pike, zander, perch, tench, roach, and carp. Night fishing is permitted in specific zones. Please note that motorized boats are prohibited, but electric motors are allowed.
Yes, the Chapelle Saint-Pierre is a notable historical site. It served as a hideout for resistance fighters during World War II. Hikers often discover it while exploring the trails around the lake. The Moulin Brulé (Burnt Mill) is another point of interest mentioned near the lake.
The area offers several family-friendly options. The Wooden boardwalk on Lake Saint-Agnan is suitable for families. Additionally, the Domaine des Grands Prés features a nature trail with two loops, one of which is 750 meters long and specifically accessible to people with reduced mobility, following an elf named Iris. More information can be found at burgundy-tourism.com.
Generally, the outdoor trails and natural areas around Barrage De Saint Agnan are dog-friendly, making it a great place to explore with your canine companion. Always ensure your dog is under control and respect local regulations regarding leashes and waste disposal.
The area is beautiful year-round, but the spring and autumn months offer pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling, with vibrant foliage or blooming wildflowers. Summer is also popular, though it can be warmer. It's advisable to check current conditions, especially regarding water activities, as preventive bathing bans have occurred due to cyanobacteria.
While the immediate vicinity of the dam and lake is primarily natural, the surrounding villages and towns in the Morvan Regional Natural Park offer various options for accommodation, cafes, and pubs. You can find more information by checking local tourist offices or online travel platforms for the Morvan region.


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