The most beautiful lakes of Verdon
Published on 06/11/2024 by CAMPASUN
The Verdon lakes, created by the construction of dams between 1925 and 1975, punctuate the region’s landscape. They include Castillon Lake, Chaudanne Reservoir, Sainte-Croix Lake, Quinson Reservoir and Esparron Lake. These vast expanses of water, nestled between canyons, offer shades of turquoise blue that blend harmoniously into the natural setting.
They enrich the tourist offer by proposing a variety of aquatic activities. Among the leisure activities available:
- Beaches and areas dedicated to swimming
- Canoeing along the Verdon
- Sailing to catch the wind
- Pedal boat rides for a family experience
- Electric boat excursions for an ecological approach
- Water skiing for thrill seekers
Each site has its own selection of activities, attracting a varied audience looking for relaxation or adventure on the water.
Quinson Lake: A Popular Nautical Setting
Stretching over 11 km, this lake is nestled between imposing cliffs and offers a preserved natural spectacle. It spreads over 160 hectares and is a haven for lovers of picturesque landscapes.
From the banks of Saint-Laurent-du-Verdon and Montagnac-Montpezat, visitors benefit from an ideal access point to explore the surrounding gorges. The Quinson nautical base is the starting point for a multitude of aquatic activities, such as:
- Windsurfing, to glide on the water with the wind as the only engine.
- Canoeing, for total immersion in the tranquility of the gorges.
- The pedal boat, perfect for a family getaway punctuated by the lapping of the water.
The bathing areas are secured and supervised during the summer periods, thus guaranteeing the safety of swimmers. Only boats without a thermal engine or equipped with electric motors are authorized, preserving the tranquility and purity of the environment.
Lake Sainte-Croix: An Artificial Setting
Initiated in 1970, the Sainte-Croix lake is today the second largest artificial reservoir in France, covering 2,200 hectares of bright blue water. With an average width of two kilometers, it stretches over twelve kilometers. Its creation led to the submersion of a valley and its hamlets, including the village of Salles-sur-Verdon.
The waters of the lake serve a variety of purposes: they power hydroelectric production, irrigate the crops of Provence, provide water to towns along the Mediterranean coast, and refuel Canadairs during fires. Lake Sainte-Croix has become a popular tourist destination, attracting water sports enthusiasts and families seeking tranquility amid the remarkable panoramas of the Verdon.
Visitors can go canoeing, sailing, paddle boarding or rent pedalos and electric boats to explore the accessible waters and gorges. Developed beaches provide an ideal space for those who want to lounge in the sun, play in the sand or go for a swim.
Lake Castillon: A Cradle of Water Activities
Created from the construction of a hydroelectric dam initiated in 1924 and completed after the troubled period of the Second World War, Lake Castillon is a vast body of water covering 500 hectares.
It unfolds majestically over 8 kilometers long, nestled between mountains and sheltered from the Mistral winds. The French Navy occupies a fraction to the south of the lake, making this area off-limits to visitors. The accessible spaces are full of relaxation and leisure activities.
The nautical bases of Saint-André-les-Alpes and Saint-Julien-sur-Verdon, located on the shores, offer a range of boats such as canoes, kayaks, paddles and pedal boats for rent. These centers also offer introductory and advanced windsurfing lessons, aquatic excursions, and give you the opportunity to try your hand at water skiing. The beaches are the epicenter of relaxation, games and privileged moments of rest.
Lake Esparron, a natural jewel of the Verdon
Cliffs, gorges and coves create a breathtaking landscape that delights visitors. The lake is made up of two basins and is under the watchful eye of the village of Esparron-sur-Verdon, offering a breathtaking view of the valley.
It is a privileged starting point for exploring the Verdon Park and its remarkable sites, such as Moustiers-Sainte-Marie and Gréoux-les-Bains. The waters of this lake are vital, supplying drinking water to many cities such as Toulon, Aix and Marseille. As for leisure, the Esparron lake is full of aquatic activities:
- Rowing, for those who appreciate peace and quiet and measured effort.
- The pedal boat, perfect for a family outing.
- Canoeing and kayaking, for total immersion in the landscapes of the Verdon.
- Electric boats, ideal for quiet and environmentally friendly navigation.
Swimming is also permitted there, for the enjoyment of young and old.
