Best lakes around Saint-Saturnin are primarily found in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, particularly in the Cantal department. This area is characterized by its volcanic landscapes, which have shaped many of its natural lakes. The lakes offer diverse environments, from large natural bodies of water formed by volcanic dams to smaller, quieter ponds. Visitors can explore these varied aquatic settings, often surrounded by forests and offering views of the surrounding mountains.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
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Much smaller but quieter and less touristy than Lake Aydat, great picnic tables.
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an easy walk done out of season https://youtu.be/3TCmbiwuhhw?si=6mGavFVqqwFRZeYa
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As you go around the lake to this point, the land rises and gives you the opportunity to see and appreciate the lake from this fantastic angle. The elevation also allows you to see Puy-de-Dôme in the distance. A real treat.
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If you are looking for a scenic and relaxing bike ride in the heart of Auvergne, you can head to Lac d'Aydat. It is the largest natural lake in the region, formed by a volcanic dam. You can cycle around the lake on a well-marked trail that offers stunning views of the water and surrounding mountains. You can also enjoy lake activities, such as swimming, fishing, sailing or kayaking. Lake Aydat is an ideal destination for a day trip or weekend getaway.
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You'll want to stop here and take time to appreciate this view of the lake. She is simply breathtaking!
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A creation of the Count of Montlosier, L'Étang de Montlosier is more of a landscape creation. It is artificially created by diversion of the Randanne which then bumps against the lava flow of the Puys de la Vache and Lassolas. The pond covers an area of nearly 1.5 hectares and has no apparent water outlet. This disappears, in fact, in the volcanic strata at the foot of the puys of Lassolas, La Vache, and Mercœur. After a political career spent abroad, François Dominique de Reynaud, Count of Montlosier, tired of political intrigues, retired to his land in Montlosier in 1816. It is a very poor land where agriculture is impossible. The count undertakes to make it possible by transforming the landscape, a work that will take him 22 years. Living with his son in a cottage, he first took care of housing the cattle. The castle will be built later, in 1820. Then, he takes care of clearing, restoring the soil, making hydraulic arrangements and finally cultivating. It goes without saying that the landscape is profoundly modified.
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The tour of the lake allows you to take a little height and offers different points of view on the lake and on the surrounding puys.
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Aydat Lake owes its formation to a lava flow that obstructed the passage of the Veyre. It is the largest natural body of water in Auvergne, and various aquatic activities are offered with a bathing area and the possibility of going around the lake.
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Visitors frequently enjoy Lake Aydat, which is the largest natural body of water in Auvergne and offers a wide range of aquatic activities. Another favored spot is Lac de la Cassière, known for its peaceful atmosphere and picnic facilities, making it a quieter alternative to larger lakes.
Yes, several lakes are ideal for families. Lake Aydat is very family-friendly, offering swimming and other water sports. Lac de la Cassière also provides a calm setting with picnic tables. In the Provence region, Étang de la Bonde and Lac de la Riaille near Apt are excellent choices with supervised swimming, water games, and various recreational facilities.
The region offers diverse outdoor activities. Near the lakes, you can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and running. For instance, there are routes like the 'Lake Aydat – Lake Aydat loop' for mountain biking and various hiking trails such as the 'Bridge over the Monne – Saint-Saturnin Castle loop'. You can find more details and routes in the MTB Trails around Saint-Saturnin, Hiking around Saint-Saturnin, and Running Trails around Saint-Saturnin guides.
For swimming and water sports, Lake Aydat is a prime choice, offering swimming, sailing, and kayaking. In the Provence area, Étang de la Bonde and Lac de la Riaille provide supervised swimming, paddleboarding, pedal boating, and even inflatable obstacle courses during summer months.
Yes, Montlosier Pond is an artificially created lake with unique hydraulic arrangements within volcanic strata, developed by the Count of Montlosier. In the Cantal department, Lac du Pêcher is an artificial lake with historical origins potentially linked to the Templars, and it's a classified natural area known for its ecological richness.
If you prefer a quieter experience, Lac de la Cassière is known for being less touristy than larger lakes, offering a peaceful setting. Lac du Pêcher, while not for swimming, provides a serene environment for nature observation and fishing. Lac de Jolan also offers tranquil walks amidst peat bogs.
Absolutely. The 'View of Lake Aydat and Puy de Dôme' offers a fantastic perspective of Lake Aydat and the distant Puy-de-Dôme. There's also a specific highlight called 'Beautiful view of Lake Aydat' that provides breathtaking vistas. Many trails around the lakes, such as those around Lac de Jolan, also offer splendid views of the Monts du Cantal.
The lakes are rich in biodiversity. Lac du Pêcher, for example, is a classified natural area known for its ecological richness and diverse fish population, including trout and pike, and features an ornithological observatory. Lac de Jolan is surrounded by remarkable peat bogs, making it ideal for those interested in botany and geology.
Yes, fishing is a popular activity. Lake Aydat is suitable for fishing, and Lac du Pêcher is particularly renowned as a 'paradise for fishermen' due to its rich fish fauna. In Provence, fishing is also permitted at Étang de la Bonde and Lac des Salettes, though a license may be required.
Yes, several lakes offer sandy beaches and picnic areas. Lac de la Cassière has great picnic tables. In Provence, Étang de la Bonde, Lac de Monteux, and Lac des Salettes all feature sandy shores and shaded picnic spots, perfect for a relaxing day out.
Visitors particularly appreciate the diverse environments, from large natural bodies of water offering various activities to smaller, tranquil spots. The stunning views, especially from points overlooking Lake Aydat and the surrounding mountains, are frequently highlighted. The peaceful atmosphere of places like Lac de la Cassière and the opportunities for outdoor recreation are also highly valued.


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