Top 8 Lakes around Saint-Flour
Best lakes around Saint-Flour are found in the Cantal department of France, a region characterized by its natural beauty and diverse landscapes. This area offers a variety of lakes, from large artificial reservoirs to smaller, serene natural bodies of water. The surrounding terrain includes mountains and gorges, providing scenic backdrops for outdoor activities. These lakes serve as focal points for recreation and nature observation within the region.
Best lakes around Saint-Flour
- The most popular lakes is Route du Jolan, a trail that offers splendid views of the Monts du Cantal and Lac de Jolan. This route also provides perspectives of the nearby Jolan and Gazelle peat bogs nature reserve.
- Another must-see spot is Étang de Lascourt, a lake located at an altitude of around 1,100m. It offers a view of the surrounding puys within the Auvergne Volcanoes Park.
- Visitors also love Lake du Pêcher, an artificial body of water at 1142m altitude. This lake is part of a classified natural area and has medieval origins related to fish farming.
- Saint-Flour is known for its artificial lakes, natural ponds, and lakes nestled within peat bog ecosystems. Visitors can explore a variety of lakes offering different natural settings and recreational opportunities.
- The lakes around Saint-Flour are appreciated by the komoot community, with 9 highlights, 27 photos, and 46 upvotes.
Last updated: June 22, 2026
Route du Jolan
Highlight • Trail
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Lake du Pêcher
Highlight • Lake
It is part of a classified natural area.
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Lac du Pêcher Bird Observatory
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Lac des Cascades
Highlight • Lake
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Étang de Lascourt
Highlight (Segment) • Lake
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Lac Sauvage and View of the Monts du Cantal
Highlight (Segment) • Lake
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Doe Lake
Highlight • Forest
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Lac Sauvage
Highlight • Lake
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Lac du Cibial
Highlight • Lake
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Tips from the Community
Structure beautifully integrated into nature! With well thought out information panels inside. Great initiative! 🦉😃🏞️🐦
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Pretty little lake on the edges of the Murat national forest and above the Lagnon valley. It is an ideal place to rest in peace and in the shade of colleagues.
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As its name suggests, Lac Sauvage is a peaceful place to enjoy nature. Its surroundings also offer beautiful views of the Cantal mountains.
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The ornithological observatory of Lac du Pêcher is the ideal place to forget about the fauna and thus observe the birds frequenting this site classified as a Sensitive Natural Area.
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The Lac du Pêcher is an artificial body of water at altitude (1142m), even if it itself comes from a peat bog. Its history is therefore rich. The place would have been cleared by the Templars and its name "Fishing" would have medieval origins which designates a body of water for fish farming. It is part of a classified natural area.
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Pretty lake located between the Roche and Sartre waterfalls. It also offers a lovely panorama of the Puy Mary.
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Lac Sauvage is aptly named: away from the main roads, it offers a moment of change of scenery and tranquility. There is a restaurant there, Auberge du Lac Sauvage, which serves an excellent truffade, a typical dish that does not include truffles. So why this name? In fact, the name truffade comes from Occitan and means potato, in the Auvergne dialect.
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A magnificent road, with a splendid view of the Cantal mountains, the lake and the regional nature reserve of the Jolan and Gazelle peat bogs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of natural landscapes can I expect around the lakes near Saint-Flour?
The region around Saint-Flour's lakes is characterized by diverse natural beauty, including dramatic Truyère gorges, views of the Monts du Cantal, and peat bog ecosystems. Lakes like Route du Jolan offer splendid views of the Monts du Cantal and the Jolan and Gazelle peat bogs nature reserve. Étang de Lascourt, located in the Auvergne Volcanoes Park, provides magnificent views of the surrounding puys.
Are there opportunities for watersports at the lakes?
Yes, Lac de Garabit-Grandval is a hub for watersports. You can enjoy canoeing, kayaking, sailing, windsurfing, and pedal boating there. Boat trips are also available to explore the Truyère gorges. Lac Sauvage also permits canoeing.
Which lakes are best for families with children?
Several lakes are family-friendly. Lac de Garabit-Grandval offers supervised swimming areas and organized fishing activities in summer. Lac des Cascades and Étang de Lascourt are also noted as family-friendly. Lac Sauvage is suitable for families, offering canoeing and trout fishing during the season.
Can I go fishing in the lakes around Saint-Flour?
Yes, fishing is a popular activity. Lac de Garabit-Grandval is known for pike, zander, and perch. Lac du Pêcher is popular for trout fishing, and Lac Sauvage also offers trout fishing from mid-June to mid-September. For more detailed information on fishing regulations and permits, you can check resources like hautesterrestourisme.fr.
Are there historical sites or unique features associated with these lakes?
Yes, Lake du Pêcher has medieval origins, believed to have been used for fish farming by the Templars. Lac de Garabit-Grandval is situated near the impressive Garabit Viaduct, an early work by Gustave Eiffel, and offers views of Alleuze Castle.
What hiking opportunities are available near the lakes?
The region offers various hiking opportunities. For instance, the Waterfall hikes around Saint-Flour guide features routes like 'The Vallée de l’Impradine – loop' which is easy. You can also find running and MTB trails in the area. The Route du Jolan is a beautiful trail offering views of Lac de Jolan and the Monts du Cantal.
Is it possible to observe wildlife, especially birds, at the lakes?
Yes, Lac du Pêcher Bird Observatory is an ideal spot for birdwatching. It's part of a classified natural area and provides opportunities to observe diverse birdlife frequenting the site.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Saint-Flour?
The summer months are generally ideal for visiting, especially for watersports and family activities, with supervised swimming areas available at Lac de Garabit-Grandval. Trout fishing is typically open from mid-June to mid-September at Lac Sauvage. The natural beauty can be enjoyed throughout the warmer seasons for hiking and nature observation.
Can I bring my dog to the trails around the lakes?
While specific dog policies for each lake vary, many natural areas and trails in France are generally dog-friendly, often requiring dogs to be on a leash. It's always recommended to check local signage or specific regulations for each lake or trail you plan to visit to ensure compliance.
Where can I find food or accommodation near the lakes?
Near Lac Sauvage, you can find the Auberge du Lac Sauvage, which serves local dishes. For other lakes, nearby towns and villages around Saint-Flour offer various options for cafes, restaurants, and accommodation. Lac des Cascades also has a restaurant nearby.
Are there any lakes suitable for a peaceful and tranquil visit?
Yes, Lac Sauvage is known as a peaceful place surrounded by nature, offering a serene natural escape with picturesque surroundings and beautiful views of the Cantal mountains. Lake du Pêcher also offers a tranquil setting for nature walks.
Which lake offers the best views of the surrounding mountains?
The Route du Jolan provides splendid views of the Monts du Cantal. Lac Sauvage also offers beautiful views of the Cantal mountains, and Lac des Cascades provides a lovely panorama of the Puy Mary in the distance.
Most popular routes around Saint-Flour
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