Best lakes around Saint-Nicolas-De-Macherin include Lac de Paladru, a significant natural attraction known for its turquoise waters and glacial origin. The commune also features the ecologically important Étang et marais du Bergureuil, recognized for its wet meadows and diverse flora. This region offers a mix of recreational lake activities and preserved natural environments for ecological observation.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
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Popular around Saint-Nicolas-De-Macherin
Lake Paladru is very popular in the summer, especially on weekends. Swimming is possible; there's a small, well-equipped beach.
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This is a classic bike ride around Grenoble, easy and suitable for the whole family.
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A tourist attraction in this area is Lake Paladru, which stretches from the village of the same name in the north to Charavines in the south. If you walk around the lake from a distance rather than on the paths directly along the shore, the hills offer some very beautiful views of the landscape. But not only that: on the outskirts of Bilieu – on the eastern shore of the lake – we pass a small sacred monument: a simple wayside cross made of two massive wooden beams (without a body or INRI inscription), which already shows the wear and tear of wind and weather.
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A very popular lake to visit during the summer months when the lake is quite refreshing. Every year, there is a time trial around the lake.
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On the eastern shore of Lac Paladru, the cycle path is perfectly developed and also easy to use for families with small children
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Beautiful public bathing area, turquoise water
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Pretty beach where it is possible to swim and enjoy the turquoise water of the lake.
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High up on the hillside here you get an amazing view of this glacial lake.
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Lac de Paladru, often called the 'Blue Lake,' is unique due to its distinctive turquoise waters, a result of the lacustrine chalk on its bottom. It's the fifth-largest natural lake of glacial origin in France, offering a Caribbean-like appearance amidst green hills. Beyond its beauty, it's rich in archaeological history, known as the 'lake of knights' for its ancient lakeside dwellings.
Lac de Paladru is particularly family-friendly. You can enjoy swimming at its four supervised beaches, including Charavines Beach, and engage in water sports like pedal boating. The dedicated greenway, such as the Cycle Path on the Eastern Shore of Lac de Paladru, provides safe and peaceful routes for cycling and strolling with children.
Yes, Lac de Paladru is a hub for various water sports. You can enjoy pedal boating, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and sailing. Boat rentals are available, and the lake's calm waters and moderate winds create excellent conditions for these activities.
The area around Lac de Paladru offers numerous walking and hiking routes with panoramic views. A dedicated greenway connects Charavines to Paladru, passing through the 'Chemin des marais' and 'Bois d'Amour,' ideal for cycling or walking. For more extensive routes, you can explore options in the MTB Trails around Saint-Nicolas-De-Macherin or Gravel biking around Saint-Nicolas-De-Macherin guides.
The best place for swimming is Lac de Paladru, where the crystal-clear waters can reach up to 25°C in summer. There are four supervised beaches around the lake in Charavines, Le Pin, Montferrat, and Paladru, with Charavines Beach being a popular choice.
The summer months are ideal for swimming and water sports at Lac de Paladru, as the water temperatures are very pleasant. For hiking and cycling, spring and autumn offer comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery, while the off-season can provide a more tranquil experience.
Yes, within Saint-Nicolas-De-Macherin itself, you'll find the Étang et marais du Bergureuil (Bergureuil pond and marsh). This area is ecologically important, known for its wet meadows that support diverse flora, including orchids, and is a site for nature appreciation and conservation efforts.
Lac de Paladru holds significant archaeological heritage. Remains of lakeside dwellings (palafittes) from the Neolithic period and the Middle Ages have been discovered, earning it the nickname 'lake of knights.' The Archaeological Museum of Lake Paladru (MALP) in Charavines offers deeper insights into this history.
Absolutely. One notable spot is the Croix des Cochettes View of Lac de Paladru, which provides an amazing elevated view of this glacial lake and the surrounding landscape. Many trails around the lake also offer various scenic overlooks.
Visitors frequently praise the refreshing, lovely blue waters of Lac de Paladru, especially during summer. The excellent cycle paths, like the one on the eastern shore, and the diverse tours around the lake with great viewpoints are also highly appreciated by the komoot community.
Yes, there are several running trails in the vicinity. For example, you can find routes like the 'Étang loop from Saint-Nicolas-de-Macherin' or the 'Running loop from Saint-Nicolas-de-Macherin'. More options are available in the Running Trails around Saint-Nicolas-De-Macherin guide.


Still not found your perfect lake around Saint-Nicolas-De-Macherin? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.