Top 5 Lakes around Saint-Pierre-Colamine
Best lakes around Saint-Pierre-Colamine are situated in the volcanic region of Puy-de-Dôme, France. This area is characterized by its diverse lakes, many of which are of volcanic origin. The region offers various natural features and landscapes for exploration. These lakes provide opportunities for recreation and appreciation of the local environment.
Best lakes around Saint-Pierre-Colamine
- The most popular lakes is Panoramic view of Lac Chambon, a lake that was formed following the eruption of the Tartaret volcano. From this viewpoint, the Tartaret, the Couze valley, and the Sancy massif are visible.
- Another must-see spot is Lac Chambon Beach, a lake and beach area. This volcanic lake offers views of the Monts Dore and its shallow depth makes swimming pleasant, with taverns and restaurants available during high season.
- Visitors also love Lake Montcineyre, a lake and natural monument. This crescent-shaped lake was formed when the Puy de Montcineyre blocked a river's course, reaching a significant depth of 20 meters.
- Saint-Pierre-Colamine is known for its volcanic lakes, crater lakes, and protected natural sites. These include options for swimming, hiking, fishing, and nature observation.
- The lakes around Saint-Pierre-Colamine are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 300 upvotes and over 40 photos shared.
Last updated: July 8, 2026
Lac Chambon Beach
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As a good walker, you need an hour to hike around the lake. If you prefer water sports, go directly to the leisure base.
On the beach, taverns, ice cream parlors and restaurants are also open during the high season.
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Lake Pavin
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Due to its volcanic nature and its meromictic character (the surface waters do not mix with the waters of the depths themselves loaded with toxic gas), it has also long been the subject of numerous studies and scientific hypotheses which can sometimes explain the legends.
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Lac Chambon
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A path allows you to go around it. Portions on stilts allow you to follow the shore of the lake passing through marshy areas.
The circumference of the lake is 3.5 kilometers.
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Panoramic view of Lac Chambon
Highlight • Lake
You can see the Tartaret, the Couze valley, and in the background, the Sancy massif.
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Lake Montcineyre
Highlight • Lake
Although it was not formed during a volcanic explosion, its depth of 20 meters is significant.
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Tips from the Community
Lake Chambon was formed following the eruption of the Tartaret volcano. You can see the Tartaret, the Couze valley, and in the background, the Sancy massif.
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Surrounded by dense forests and steep cliffs, Lake Pavin is distinguished by its deep blue waters that reflect the surrounding vegetation. This enchanting setting, accessible by a trail, combines perfectly with breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
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Lake Chambon owes its origin to a volcanic flow that obstructed the Couze Chambon. Beaches are set up on the northern and western parts of the lake but it is possible to go around it to enjoy the calm of nature on the southern banks.
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The Puy de Montcineyre, at the time of its formation, blocked the course of a river, and formed this large lake in the shape of a crescent. Although it was not formed during a volcanic explosion, its depth of 20 meters is significant.
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Lake Pavin is a marvel, yet the name Pavin from which it comes means appalling. Its circular shape leaves no doubt as to its origin: a gigantic volcanic explosion. When we look at its calm waters, it is difficult to imagine how dreadful its creation some 6,900 years ago was. The explosion that formed it was indeed very violent: traces of this maar were found even in the sediments of Lake Geneva in Switzerland.
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Lac Chambon is a lake of volcanic origin. Between its remarkable view of the Monts Dore and its shallow depth (only four meters), swimming becomes very pleasant. As a good walker, you need an hour to hike around the lake. If you prefer water sports, go directly to the leisure base. On the beach, taverns, ice cream parlors and restaurants are also open during the high season.
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Chambon Lake owes its origin to a volcanic flow that blocked the Couze Chambon. Beaches are provided on the northern and western parts of the lake, but it is possible to go around them in order to enjoy the calm of nature on the southern banks.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes around Saint-Pierre-Colamine are best for swimming and water activities?
For swimming and water activities, Lac Chambon Beach is an excellent choice. Its shallow depth makes swimming pleasant, and it offers two equipped beaches with supervised swimming during high season. You can also find a leisure base for various water sports like paddleboarding, sailing, kayaking, and pedal-boating. Taverns, ice cream parlors, and restaurants are available on the beach during peak season.
Are there any family-friendly lakes in the region?
Yes, Lac Chambon Beach is very family-friendly, featuring equipped beaches, supervised swimming, and amenities like taverns and restaurants. Lake Montcineyre is also noted as family-friendly, offering a quiet natural setting for walks, though swimming is not permitted there.
What unique natural features can I expect to see at these lakes?
The lakes around Saint-Pierre-Colamine are primarily of volcanic origin, offering distinct natural features. Lake Pavin is a unique, nearly circular crater lake, the youngest in mainland France, known for its dark, mysterious waters and significant depth. Lake Montcineyre is a crescent-shaped lake formed when a river's course was blocked, offering breathtaking views of the Massif du Sancy. Lake Estivadoux is a large bog perched at 1,200 meters, notable for its unique ecological characteristics.
Which lakes are suitable for hiking or walking?
Many lakes offer excellent walking opportunities. You can enjoy a one-hour hiking trail that circles Lac Chambon. Lake Pavin also has pleasant paths for strolling around its perimeter. Lac du Guéry and Lac Servières, both volcanic lakes, are also excellent spots for walks with superb scenery and surrounding fir forests.
Can I go fishing at any of the lakes?
Yes, fishing is permitted at certain lakes. Lake Pavin allows trout fishing. Lac du Guéry is an excellent spot for fishing, with trout, salmon, carp, and roach. Lac Servières is also particularly popular with anglers due to its crystal-clear waters. Always check local regulations for permits before fishing.
Are there any lakes where swimming is prohibited?
Yes, swimming is strictly forbidden at several lakes. This includes Lake Pavin due to its unique meromictic character and depth, and Lake Montcineyre as it serves as a drinking water reserve. Swimming and canoeing are also strictly forbidden at Lac du Guéry.
What kind of cycling routes are available near the lakes?
The region offers various cycling opportunities. You can find MTB trails, gravel biking routes, and touring bicycle routes. For example, there's a 'Lake Estivadoux – Lac Pavin loop' for MTB, a 'Château de Murol – Lake Chambon loop' for gravel biking, and a 'Lac Pavin — loop from Besse' for touring bicycles. You can explore more options on the MTB Trails around Saint-Pierre-Colamine, Gravel biking around Saint-Pierre-Colamine, and Cycling around Saint-Pierre-Colamine guides.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around Saint-Pierre-Colamine?
The summer months, particularly July and August, are ideal for visiting lakes like Lac Chambon and Lac des Hermines, as swimming is supervised and water sports facilities are fully operational. Spring also offers beautiful scenery, especially around Lake Estivadoux with plenty of water. For hiking and enjoying the views, late spring to early autumn provides pleasant weather.
Are there any lakes with notable viewpoints?
Yes, Panoramic view of Lac Chambon offers remarkable views of the Monts Dore, the Tartaret volcano, and the Couze valley. Lake Montcineyre provides breathtaking views and a sublime panorama of the Massif du Sancy. Lac du Guéry, as the highest lake in Auvergne, also boasts superb scenery of the Chaîne des Puys and the Sancy massif.
What amenities are available near the lakes?
Near Lac Chambon Beach, you'll find taverns, ice cream parlors, and restaurants, especially during high season. Lac des Hermines (Super-Besse) also features an equipped beach, a nautical base, playgrounds for children, and sports equipment. For other lakes, amenities might be more limited, focusing on natural experiences.
What makes Lac Pavin so unique?
Lake Pavin is unique as the youngest crater lake in mainland France, formed by a volcanic explosion. It's almost perfectly circular and nearly 100 meters deep. Its dark, mysterious waters are the subject of many local legends and have been extensively studied due to its meromictic character, meaning its surface and deep waters do not mix.
Are there any protected natural sites among the lakes?
Yes, Lake Montcineyre is a protected natural site. Lac Servières is also recognized as an 'Espace Naturel Sensible,' highlighting its ecological importance and conservation efforts.
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