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France
Auvergne Rhône Alpes
Saint-Étienne

La Terrasse-Sur-Dorlay

Top 5 Lakes around La Terrasse-Sur-Dorlay

Lakes around La Terrasse-Sur-Dorlay, situated in the Loire department, primarily consist of man-made dams and reservoirs, offering various outdoor activities. While major natural lakes are not directly within the commune, the broader region provides several notable water bodies. These locations are valued for their scenic views and recreational opportunities, attracting visitors to the natural landscapes near La Terrasse-Sur-Dorlay.

Best lakes around La Terrasse-Sur-Dorlay

  • The most popular lakes is Rive dam spillway, an other man-made structure that discharges its waters…

Last updated: July 5, 2026

Rive dam spillway

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The Rive dam discharges its waters into the Gier reservoir which itself relies on the Soulages dam further south. The view from the dam allows you to see the downstream dam and the Gier water reservoir.

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Couzon Dam

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Built in 1787, it is one of the oldest dams in France! The lake it creates is a pleasant place for a walk.

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Soulages Dam

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The Soulages dam is unlike other dams in the region with its impressive arched construction.

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Gier Reservoir

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This path borders the Gier water reservoir. Some technical parts require the use of a handrail. The setting is very bucolic.

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Pont Souvignet Dam

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Small track along the reservoir then the watercourse.
Despite logging, the surface is still easily passable in Gravel.
This section in the undergrowth along the water is bucolic

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Popular around La Terrasse-Sur-Dorlay

Crets, chirats and broom - 11 hikes in the Pilat

Road Cycling Routes around La Terrasse-Sur-Dorlay

Hiking around La Terrasse-Sur-Dorlay

Cycling around La Terrasse-Sur-Dorlay

MTB Trails around La Terrasse-Sur-Dorlay

Running Trails around La Terrasse-Sur-Dorlay

Gravel biking around La Terrasse-Sur-Dorlay

Other adventures around La Terrasse-Sur-Dorlay

Crets, chirats and broom - 11 hikes in the Pilat

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Totosupertramp (Thomas Boury)

Tips from the Community

Chabha CHAIB BEZIAT
August 16, 2025, Barrage de Soulages

magnificent with a small, rather steep passage (good shoes recommended)

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tracks around the dam are very smooth

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Small track along the reservoir then the watercourse. Despite logging, the surface is still easily passable in Gravel. This section in the undergrowth along the water is bucolic

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Manu
April 26, 2024, Barrage de Couzon

Magical place in spring, a treat to walk on the two banks of the dam

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This path borders the Gier water reservoir. Some technical parts require the use of a handrail. The setting is very bucolic.

Translated by Google

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The Rive dam discharges its waters into the Gier reservoir which itself relies on the Soulages dam further south. The view from the dam allows you to see the downstream dam and the Gier water reservoir.

Translated by Google

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Impressive dam, overlooking the tour of the lake thus formed, very nice path!

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The Soulages dam is unlike other dams in the region with its impressive arched construction.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What types of lakes can I expect to find around La Terrasse-sur-Dorlay?

The immediate vicinity of La Terrasse-sur-Dorlay primarily features man-made dams and reservoirs, such as the Rive dam spillway, Couzon Dam, and Soulages Dam. These offer scenic views and walking opportunities. For larger natural lakes with extensive recreational facilities, you'll need to venture slightly further into the broader region.

Are there any natural lakes near La Terrasse-sur-Dorlay with recreational activities?

Yes, while not directly in La Terrasse-sur-Dorlay, the region offers notable natural lakes. The Lac de la Terrasse (in Isère) is a popular leisure base with a supervised sandy beach, paddleboarding, kayaking, and inflatable water structures. Another excellent option is Lac de Lavalette (in Haute-Loire), a mountain lake offering sailing, canoeing, paddleboarding, and extensive hiking trails.

Can I go swimming in any of the lakes near La Terrasse-sur-Dorlay?

Yes, you can. The Lac de la Terrasse in Isère is well-known for its excellent water quality and features a supervised swimming area with a sandy beach. Lac de Lavalette in Haute-Loire also offers a supervised swimming area during July and August afternoons.

Are there family-friendly lakes in the area?

Absolutely. The Lac de la Terrasse is ideal for families, offering a supervised sandy beach, various water activities, shaded picnic areas, and the nearby Elfy Park with treehouses and a zip line. The Couzon Dam area is also considered family-friendly, providing a pleasant spot for walks and picnics.

What water activities are available at the lakes?

At Lac de la Terrasse, you can enjoy paddleboarding, kayaking, and fun inflatable structures like Aqua Bim Bim and Blop Jump. Lac de Lavalette offers a wider range of water sports, including sailing, catamaran, optimist, canoe, paddle, pedal boat, and rowing, with rentals and courses available at its nautical base.

Are there opportunities for hiking or cycling around the lakes?

Yes, many lakes offer excellent trails. Lac de Lavalette is a hub for hiking and mountain biking, featuring a 7 km hiking trail around the lake with unique 'Legends of Bugey' sculptures. For cycling, you can find various routes, including Gravel biking, Road Cycling, and MTB Trails guides that pass by or near several dams and reservoirs in the region.

Are there any historically significant dams or lakes to visit?

Yes, the Couzon Dam is a notable historical site. Built in 1787, it is one of France's oldest dams and creates a pleasant lake for walks and picnics, offering a glimpse into the region's engineering past.

What unique features can I find at the dams and reservoirs?

The Soulages Dam is distinctive for its impressive arched construction, setting it apart from other dams in the region. The Rive dam spillway offers views of the downstream dam and the Gier water reservoir. At Lac de Lavalette, you can discover the 'Legends of Bugey' sculptures carved into rocks along its hiking trail.

Are the lakes accessible for people with reduced mobility?

The Lac de la Terrasse in Isère is noted for its accessibility, making it a welcoming destination for people with reduced mobility to enjoy its facilities and natural surroundings.

What do visitors enjoy most about the dams and reservoirs around La Terrasse-sur-Dorlay?

Visitors appreciate the scenic views and the tranquil atmosphere. Many enjoy the pleasant walks around the lakes created by the dams, such as the Couzon Dam, and the bucolic setting of paths bordering the Gier Reservoir. The impressive construction of structures like the Soulages Dam is also a highlight.

Where can I find more information about Lac de Lavalette?

For more details on Lac de Lavalette, including activities and facilities, you can visit the official tourism website: sucsetloire-tourisme.fr.

Are there any less crowded lakes or hidden gems in the region?

While specific 'hidden gems' are not detailed, the smaller dams and reservoirs like Pont Souvignet Dam offer more secluded experiences with tracks along the reservoir and watercourse, providing a bucolic setting away from larger crowds.

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Still not found your perfect lake around La Terrasse-Sur-Dorlay? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.

PilatThélis-La-CombeLe BessatLa Valla-En-GierTarentaiseSaint-Genest-MalifauxPlanfoySaint-ChamondLa VersanneColombierGraixVéranneRive-De-GierDoizieuxSaint-Jean-BonnefondsLa TalaudièreRoiseyPélussinLe Chambon-Feugerolles

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