Lakes around Crespin, a commune in the Aveyron department of southern France, offer diverse natural and artificial water bodies. The region is characterized by its natural landscapes, including wetlands and forests, which contribute to the variety of lakes available. These lakes often originated from historical mining activities or were created for hydroelectric power generation. The area provides opportunities for outdoor activities centered around these aquatic environments.
Last updated: June 21, 2026
Highlight • Natural Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
great route organized by the tourist office this Sunday, June 15, 2025, with stops at interesting places of passage (bird viewpoint, headframe, Conde monuments)
1
0
An easy 8 km hike around a beautiful pond. Lots of birds.
0
0
Well-known Carp Fishing Pond. In Spring and Summer way too busy & everyone crammed together
0
0
Take a break here to admire the idyllic landscapes at the water's edge. The Chabaud-Latour pond is a very rich natural site. Many species of birds stop there during their migration or reside there all year round.
2
0
As you walk through the Raismes-Saint-Amand-Wallers Forest, you will come across many small, unnamed ponds that reflect the trees and the sky in winter and are covered in algae in summer.
1
0
The most popular lakes around Crespin, located in the Nord department, include Étang Chabaud-Latour, known for its idyllic landscapes and birdlife, and the Marais d'Harchies-Hensies-Pommerœul Nature Reserve, a significant wetland area for birdwatching. Visitors also appreciate Lake Bernissart for its ecological richness and fishing opportunities, and the Peaceful little pond within the Raismes-Saint-Amand-Wallers Forest for its tranquil setting.
Yes, Étang Chabaud-Latour is a great family-friendly option, offering a pleasant 7 km walk around the lake and a children's park. Lake Bernissart is also considered family-friendly, providing a calm environment surrounded by wooded areas.
The lakes near Crespin offer diverse natural features. You can observe extensive reed beds and diverse birdlife at the Marais d'Harchies-Hensies-Pommerœul Nature Reserve, which is a significant ornithological site. Étang Chabaud-Latour provides idyllic landscapes and is a stopover for many bird species. The Peaceful little pond in the Raismes-Saint-Amand-Wallers Forest is known for its reflective waters in winter and algae cover in summer.
You can enjoy various outdoor activities near the lakes around Crespin. Walking and cycling are popular, with a 7 km path around Étang Chabaud-Latour. Birdwatching is excellent at the Marais d'Harchies-Hensies-Pommerœul Nature Reserve, which has viewing huts. Fishing is also a favored activity, particularly at Lake Bernissart. For more structured routes, you can explore various cycling options, including road cycling, touring, and mountain biking. Find more details on these activities in the Cycling around Crespin, Road Cycling Routes around Crespin, and MTB Trails around Crespin guides.
Absolutely. The Marais d'Harchies-Hensies-Pommerœul Nature Reserve is a prime location for birdwatching, recognized as one of the better ornithological sites in Wallonia. It's the largest reed-covered area in Wallonia and hosts over 300 bird species, with two dedicated viewing huts. Étang Chabaud-Latour is also known for being a stopover or residence for many bird species throughout the year.
The terrain around the lakes in the Crespin (Nord) area is generally flat and accessible, often featuring paths suitable for walking and cycling. For instance, Étang Chabaud-Latour has a well-appointed 7 km path around its perimeter. The region's wetlands, like the Marais d'Harchies-Hensies-Pommerœul Nature Reserve, are largely flat, formed from mining subsidence. Some areas may include views from nearby slag heaps, offering elevated perspectives.
The Marais d'Harchies-Hensies-Pommerœul Nature Reserve is noted as wheelchair accessible, making it a good option for visitors with mobility needs to enjoy the natural surroundings and birdwatching opportunities.
Many of the lakes and wetlands around Crespin in the Nord department have a unique historical context tied to mining activities. For example, the Marais d'Harchies-Hensies-Pommerœul Nature Reserve and Lake Bernissart were formed in subsidence areas caused by mining in the mid-1920s, which then filled with water. This industrial past has shaped the landscape, creating rich natural sites from former mining depressions.
Yes, fishing is a popular activity at several lakes in the area. Lake Bernissart is particularly appreciated by fishermen. While the guide data focuses on Crespin in the Nord department, it's worth noting that other regions of France also have lakes named Crespin, such as in Aveyron, where lakes like Lac de Pareloup and Lac de Pont-de-Salars are renowned for fishing various species.
Visitors particularly enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty of the lakes. The idyllic landscapes and opportunities for birdwatching at Étang Chabaud-Latour are frequently praised. The ecological richness and the chance to observe diverse flora and fauna at sites like the Marais d'Harchies-Hensies-Pommerœul Nature Reserve are also highly valued. Many appreciate the calm settings for walks and relaxation.
Yes, the Peaceful little pond, located within the Raismes-Saint-Amand-Wallers Forest, lives up to its name, offering a serene environment. Lake Bernissart is also described as a very calm fishing lake, making it ideal for a quiet visit away from crowds.


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