Lakes around Montboudif, situated in Cantal, France, offer diverse natural landscapes. The region is characterized by its volcanic origins, contributing to unique lake formations like maars. Visitors can explore a variety of lakes, from large reservoirs suitable for water sports to tranquil high-altitude spots. The area provides opportunities for hiking, fishing, and enjoying the natural environment.
Last updated: June 24, 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 • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Waterfall
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Montboudif.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Unobstructed view of Lake Lastouille, which is very popular for swimming and fishing. It is entirely bordered by forests and summer pastures and is one of the largest water reservoirs in the Dordogne basin. Absolutely perfect for a dip in hot weather!
0
0
Magnificent little lake where François Mitterrand went every year to taste the truffade.
0
0
In one of my old hiking diaries, I wrote about Lac Chauvet: “At the end of the afternoon, my feet soak in the soft and cool waters of Lac Chauvet. Impressive in its strict circularity, the lake is the culmination of a maar; in other words, the meeting underground of a magma and a water table. As a good soloist, I try to observe the rare movements of the lake which could betray the presence of fish. According to the signs planted near the one and only pontoon of the body of water, trout, carp and even salmon would have taken up residence there”.
1
2
Lac de la Crégut is the largest natural lake of glacial origin in the Massif Central. From its banks, you can enjoy magnificent views of the Monts du Cantal and the surrounding lakes. It is now part of a whole system of reservoirs that supply water to the Rhue hydroelectric power station, at the Bort dam.
0
0
Lac du Tact is an artificial lake that flows into Lac de la Crégut via a weir. It is part of a whole system of reservoirs that supply water to the Rhue hydroelectric power station, at the level of the Bort dam.
0
0
Renowned for its perfectly circular shape, Lake Chauvet is what is called a maar (lake of volcanic origin) typical of the region.
2
0
In summer, swimming is so welcome in the lower waterfall!
0
0
The region is known for its diverse lake types. You can find volcanic lakes, such as the perfectly circular Lac Chauvet, which is a maar. There are also natural glacial lakes like Lac de la Crégut, and impressive natural monuments like the Entraygues Waterfalls and Lake.
For swimming, Lac de Lastioulles is very popular and features a sandy beach. The Étang de la Banne d'Ordanche is also a good option, recognized for its very good water quality and being the closest for swimming near Montboudif. You can even swim in the lower waterfall area at the Entraygues Waterfalls and Lake during summer.
Anglers will find excellent opportunities at several lakes. Lac de Lastioulles is a paradise for fishing, with pike, zander, perch, carp, and whitefish. Lac de Garabit-Grandval is a prime destination for carnivorous species like pike-perch and perch. For a tranquil experience, Lac des Graves is popular for 'no kill' fly fishing, with rainbow and fario trout.
Yes, Lac de Lastioulles has a nautical center offering rentals and facilities for sailing and canoeing. Lac de Garabit-Grandval also provides various water activities at its nautical bases, including motorboating, sailing, and canoeing.
The region offers numerous hiking opportunities. The area around Lac de Lastioulles is ideal for hiking, and the 40-hectare park surrounding Lac des Graves is also suitable for hiking. You can find specific running trails, such as the 'Tour du Lac Crégut', and other routes for various sports in the area. Explore more options on the Running Trails around Montboudif guide.
Lac de Garabit-Grandval is famous for being traversed by the iconic Garabit Viaduct, an impressive 19th-century structure designed by Gustave Eiffel. The lake's rugged landscape also features historic sites like the medieval Château d'Alleuze. Additionally, Lac du Pêcher, a high-altitude artificial lake, has a rich history related to medieval fish farming.
Many lakes in the region are suitable for families. Lac Chauvet, Lac de la Crégut, Lake du Tact, Lac de Lastioulles, and Entraygues Waterfalls and Lake are all highlighted as family-friendly. They offer activities like swimming, easy walks, and scenic spots for picnics.
Yes, the Domaine du Lac des Graves offers various accommodations, including a hotel, chalets, and roulottes, along with a restaurant providing traditional cuisine and panoramic lake views. For other lakes, you'll find amenities in nearby towns and villages.
Yes, the Cézallier plateau is home to high-altitude lakes like Lac Sauvage and Lac du Pêcher. These offer peaceful natural settings and scenic views of the Cantal mountains, perfect for nature enthusiasts seeking tranquility.
The area provides excellent cycling opportunities. You can find road cycling routes like the 'Lac de Lastioulles – Lac de la Crégut loop' and mountain biking trails such as 'Circuits les Granjounes et la Chaux'. For more details, refer to the Road Cycling Routes around Montboudif guide and the MTB Trails around Montboudif guide.
Visitors appreciate the diverse landscapes, from volcanic maars to glacial lakes and large reservoirs. The opportunities for various outdoor activities like swimming, fishing, hiking, and water sports are highly valued. The serene atmosphere of places like Lac des Graves and the stunning views from Lac de la Crégut are also frequently praised.


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