Top 4 Lakes around Banyuls-Sur-Mer
Best lakes around Banyuls-Sur-Mer are found in a region characterized by its Mediterranean coastline and proximity to the Pyrénées-Orientales. While Banyuls-Sur-Mer itself is known for its marine environment, the broader area offers diverse water bodies. This includes coastal paths with sea views and inland reservoirs. The region provides opportunities for exploring both natural and man-made aquatic features.
Best lakes around Banyuls-Sur-Mer
- The most popular lakes is Passage anse Sainte-Catherine, a coastal path that extends over 32 kilometers. It offers…
Last updated: July 4, 2026
Passage anse Sainte-Catherine
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Delfià Ponds
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Vilamaniscle Pool
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Views of the Presa d'Espolla
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Pantà de Portbou
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Popular around Banyuls-Sur-Mer
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Great hiking trail with a view of the sea.🥰
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The Espolla swamp is a reservoir that belongs to the Ribera de Sant Genís, created by a dam built in the 1970s. The swamp collects the surface water from the natural upstream drainage, which comes from the surface runoff from part of the southern slope of the Massís de l'Albera and the underground water that emerges at the level of the reservoir. In 2021, it supplied a total of 21,973 m³ (45.6% of the flow captured), while in 2022, the reservoir supplied a total of 15,184 m³ (35.5%). In both cases the volume is much lower than the maximum authorized in the concession approved by the defunct Comisaria de Aguas del Pirineo Oriental in 1972 (189,216 m³/year). The waters of the swamp are sent to the Espolla reservoir, with a capacity of 300 m³, where they first pass through a sand filter that has been put out of service. It is in the tank where this water is mixed with the bulk purchase from the Commonwealth. https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:PRESA_DE_ESPOLLA_2.jpg Presa d'Espolla is in Catalonia, East of Spain. Presa d'Espolla is located near the archaeological site Dolmen de Les Morelles and Dolmen dels Arreganyats.
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The Portbou marsh is a reservoir that belongs to the Portbou stream, created by a dam located in the municipality of Portbou in the region of Alt Empordà. It was built between 1973 and 1975 in order to solve the drinking water supply of Portbou. It is one of the smallest in Catalonia. The height of the dam is 27.5 m and its capacity is 1 hm³. Its surroundings are an ideal place that invites you to go on a short excursion and be able to enjoy its surroundings, all surrounded by a lot of pine forest.
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simple good food with friendly service and a wonderfully pleasant atmosphere. Perfect after a long hike or to pop in for a swim. You only pay entrance fee when you enter the water
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The coastal path, from Argelès-sur-Mer to Cerbère, extends over 32 kilometers and allows you to discover a number of coves, capes, beaches and villages. Being also bordered by the road, countless variations are possible depending on the starting point and the objective. The path allows you to discover among others: Le Racou, Collioure, Port-Vendres, Banyuls, Cap Béar, Cap Peyrefite, Cap Oullastrell, Cerbère as well as many beaches including the magnificent beach of Paulilles.
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You pass here just behind or in front of Cap Béar after where you come from the bay of Anse Sainte-Catherine.
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Beautiful views of the Delfià pools or also known as Faiet pools. An amazing roadside find.
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There is a nice rest area at the dam wall
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of 'lakes' can I expect around Banyuls-Sur-Mer?
While Banyuls-Sur-Mer is primarily known for its Mediterranean coastline, the region offers a diverse range of water bodies. These include the unique Marine Nature Reserve of Cerbère-Banyuls, scenic coastal paths with sea views like Passage anse Sainte-Catherine, and inland reservoirs and ponds in the broader Pyrénées-Orientales region.
Where can I experience the unique marine environment near Banyuls-Sur-Mer?
The most significant marine feature is the Marine Nature Reserve of Cerbère-Banyuls, located between Banyuls-sur-Mer and Cerbère. It's France's first and only exclusively marine nature reserve, offering exceptional opportunities for diving and snorkeling to explore its vibrant biodiversity. An accessible underwater trail near Peyrefite beach provides a guided snorkeling experience.
Are there any notable inland lakes in the wider Pyrénées-Orientales region?
Yes, for those willing to travel a short distance, the broader Pyrénées-Orientales region features several inland lakes. These include Lake Bouillouses, a high-altitude lake in the Capcir region, the Villeneuve-de-la-Raho Reservoir which offers recreational activities, and the Lakes of Saint-Jean-Pla-de-Corts, known for summer water sports.
What are some popular coastal paths or viewpoints related to water around Banyuls-Sur-Mer?
Visitors frequently enjoy the Passage anse Sainte-Catherine, a coastal path extending over 32 kilometers with views of coves, capes, and beaches. Another popular spot for scenic views of natural pools is Delfià Ponds, also known as Faiet pools.
Are there any man-made reservoirs worth visiting in the area?
Yes, the region has reservoirs that serve both practical and recreational purposes. Pantà de Portbou is a reservoir created by a dam, offering a nice rest area. Another is the Presa d'Espolla, which provides scenic views of the Espolla swamp, a reservoir created by a dam in the Ribera de Sant Genís.
What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes and water bodies?
Beyond exploring the water bodies themselves, the region offers various outdoor activities. You can find excellent gravel biking routes, road cycling routes, and general cycling tours around Banyuls-Sur-Mer, many of which offer views of the coastline and nearby natural features.
Are there family-friendly options among the lakes or water features?
Yes, several spots are suitable for families. The Marine Nature Reserve of Cerbère-Banyuls offers an accessible underwater trail for snorkeling, which is great for all ages. Delfià Ponds are considered family-friendly, and the Lakes of Saint-Jean-Pla-de-Corts are a hub for summer activities including swimming, pedal boating, and inflatable water games.
What is the best time to visit the marine reserve for snorkeling or diving?
For the best snorkeling and diving experience in the Marine Nature Reserve of Cerbère-Banyuls, visiting in the morning is often recommended. The waters tend to be clearer, and marine life is typically more active, enhancing your chances of a vibrant underwater encounter.
Can I go swimming in any of the lakes or water bodies?
Yes, swimming opportunities exist. The Marine Nature Reserve of Cerbère-Banyuls is ideal for snorkeling and diving. The Villeneuve-de-la-Raho Reservoir provides recreational swimming areas, and the Lakes of Saint-Jean-Pla-de-Corts are specifically equipped for various water sports, including swimming.
What do visitors enjoy most about the water features around Banyuls-Sur-Mer?
Visitors particularly appreciate the stunning sea views along coastal paths like Passage anse Sainte-Catherine, the unique biodiversity of the Marine Nature Reserve, and the tranquil beauty of natural pools such as Delfià Ponds. The blend of Mediterranean coastline and accessible inland water bodies offers a diverse experience.
Are there any facilities or amenities near these water bodies?
Some locations offer facilities. For instance, Pantà de Portbou has a rest area at the dam wall. The Lakes of Saint-Jean-Pla-de-Corts are a recreational hub with various amenities for summer activities. Additionally, Vilamaniscle Pool offers simple good food and friendly service, perfect after a hike or for a swim.
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