Best lakes around Cussy-En-Morvan are located within the Morvan Regional Natural Park in Burgundy, France. This region is characterized by several artificial lakes, initially created for water supply and log transport. These lakes now offer diverse recreational activities and natural landscapes. The area provides opportunities for hiking, water sports, and exploring woodlands.
Last updated: July 4, 2026
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It's a must-see in Burgundy; its 366 hectares make it one of the six large lakes in the Morvan Regional Natural Park. Located in the heart of the Morvan National Park, at an altitude of 590 meters, Lac des Settons (or "chettons" in Morvan) is, like all the lakes in the Morvan region, an artificial lake. Built between 1850 and 1858, south of Montsauche-les-Settons, it facilitated the floating of timber from the Morvan forests to Paris.
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According to the sign there are supposed to be otters here
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You can cycle all the way around the lake on paths and wooden bridges, although it can get busy with bathers, walkers and other cyclists.
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Nice place but I wouldn't necessarily recommend the bike tour because the passages are quite narrow, with a lot of roots and above all, you come across a lot of people on foot. Better to choose a tour outside the peak season (July and August)
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Possibility of picnic on the footbridge: 2 benches and beautiful views.
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Old style dam. You can cycle well over it
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The Morvan Regional Natural Park, where Cussy-En-Morvan is located, features several artificial lakes offering diverse experiences. Lac des Settons is known for its lively atmosphere and water sports, while Lac de Pannecière is the largest and most majestic, ideal for wild exploration. For a tranquil escape, Lac de Chaumeçon offers a soothing environment. Lac de Saint-Agnan is noted for its sometimes turquoise waters and picturesque coves, and Lac de Chamboux provides an 8-kilometer trail with varied landscapes.
Yes, several lakes offer great options for families. Lac des Settons is particularly popular, with dedicated cycling paths, wooden bridges, and a watersports center. The Lakeside Trail at Lac des Settons is also suitable for family walks. Lac de Chamboux has an 8-kilometer trail perfect for pleasant walks and unsupervised swimming.
The lakes in the Morvan region offer a wide array of outdoor activities. You can enjoy cycling, hiking, mountain biking, fishing, swimming, rowing, and canoeing. Lac des Settons is a hub for water sports and cycling, while Lac de Pannecière is excellent for hiking, horse riding, and mountain biking. For specific routes, you can explore MTB Trails around Cussy-En-Morvan or Traffic-free bike rides around Cussy-En-Morvan.
Absolutely. Many lakes feature dedicated trails. For instance, Lac des Settons has a popular 15 km lakeside trail suitable for walking and mountain biking. Lac de Chamboux is encircled by an 8-kilometer trail, offering diverse scenery. Lac de Pannecière is also surrounded by woodlands and forests, providing ample opportunities for exploration on foot.
The lakes in the Morvan Regional Natural Park are artificial, originally created in the 19th and 20th centuries. They served crucial purposes such as water supply, log storage, and regulating the Seine's tributaries. The Settons Lake Dam, completed in 1858, is a notable example, historically used for log transport and featuring a unique pyramid shape designed to withstand water pressure.
Lac de Pannecière is abundant with fish and is a popular spot for anglers. Lac du Crescent, known for its crescent shape, is also a prime location for fishing, particularly for carnivorous fish like pike, perch, and pike-perch, with large specimens caught there annually. Lac de Chamboux is designated as a 2nd category fishing zone.
Yes, cycling is a very popular activity. Lac des Settons offers dedicated paths and wooden bridges for cycling around the lake, though it can get busy. It's also a main stop on the Great Morvan Crossing for mountain biking. You can find more cycling options in the Traffic-free bike rides around Cussy-En-Morvan guide.
The lakes are beautiful year-round, but the best time depends on your preferred activities. Summer is ideal for swimming and water sports, though it can be busy. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling, with stunning foliage in the fall. Winter provides a tranquil, serene landscape for those seeking quiet reflection.
Yes, the region offers several unique natural features. Lac de Saint-Agnan is known for its sometimes turquoise waters and numerous small coves, with remarkable sunsets. The Settons Lake Dam itself is a historical landmark with a unique pyramid shape. The diverse landscapes around Lac de Chamboux also offer varied views along its encircling trail.
While specific accommodation and dining options are not detailed here, Lac des Settons is a popular resort destination with catering options, especially near the dam. For broader information on visiting the region, you might find additional resources on the Burgundy Tourism website.
Yes, swimming is a popular activity at several lakes. Lac des Settons is a well-known spot for bathers, and Lac de Chamboux offers unsupervised swimming. While Lac de Pannecière is vast and wild, it also provides opportunities for swimming. Always check local regulations and conditions before entering the water.


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