Best lakes around Les Salles-Sur-Verdon include the prominent Lac de Sainte-Croix, an artificial lake created in the 1970s, which is a central feature of the region. The village of Les Salles-Sur-Verdon was rebuilt on its shores after the original settlement was submerged. This lake, the third-largest in France, serves as a gateway to the Gorges du Verdon and offers various water sports and family friendly activities. Amenities around Lac de Sainte-Croix support a range of outdoor pursuits, including best hikes…
Last updated: July 1, 2026
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Popular around Les Salles-Sur-Verdon
Here is the route for the ascent of the Col d'Ayen starting from Saint-Clair, via the legendary road through the Verdon Gorges!
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From the bridge, you have a breathtaking view of both the entrance to the gorge and the lake. 🤩🤩
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The turquoise lake is a real alternative to the sea. The absolute highlight is the beginning of the Verdon Gorge, which you can explore by canoe, pedal boat, or electric boat for about 1.5 km.
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If mailboxes didn't exist yet, they would be invented here.
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The route is breathtakingly beautiful and the climb is pleasant to ride. At the beginning of October, when many campsites are already closed, there is not much traffic.
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The most beautiful viewpoint of the park.
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It looks like the water has cut the mountains in two.
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The prominent Lake Sainte-Croix is a paradise for water sports. You can enjoy canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding, pedal boating, and electric boating. The lake's connection to the Gorges du Verdon also allows for navigation into the lower parts of the gorge.
Yes, Verdon Gorge to Lake Sainte-Croix is considered family-friendly, offering opportunities to view the gorge from nearby roads and bridges. The lake itself has several beaches, such as Plage de Chabassole, which are safe for swimming and picnicking, making it ideal for families.
For spectacular views, visit the Coastal viewpoint, which offers magnificent panoramas of the village of Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon, Lake Sainte-Croix, and the surrounding mountains. The Belvedere of the Saint-Pierre chapel also provides a splendid panorama overlooking Aiguines and the lake. Additionally, the Pont du Galetas offers a close-up view of the Gorges du Verdon.
Yes, the turquoise waters of Lake Sainte-Croix are perfect for swimming. There are several designated beaches, including Plage de Chabassole, that offer safe spots for a refreshing dip.
Absolutely. The region offers numerous hiking opportunities. For example, you can find routes like the 'Galetas Bridge – Lake Sainte-Croix loop' or the 'View of Lac de Sainte-Croix – Les Salles-sur-Verdon loop'. You can explore more options in the Hiking around Les Salles-Sur-Verdon guide.
Lake Sainte-Croix is unique for its stunning turquoise waters, often described as a 'turquoise pearl of the Verdon'. It is the third-largest lake in France, offering vast space for activities, and serves as a direct gateway to the spectacular Gorges du Verdon, allowing visitors to navigate into the gorge by boat.
Yes, Lake Sainte-Croix is an artificial lake created in the 1970s. The village of Les Salles-sur-Verdon was rebuilt on its shores after the original settlement was submerged to form the lake. When water levels are low, the church bell tower from the old village can still be seen, adding a unique historical layer to your visit.
Beyond water activities and hiking, the area around Les Salles-Sur-Verdon is excellent for cycling. You can find various routes, such as the 'Aiguines – lake view loop' or the 'Col d'Illoire – Artuby Bridge loop'. Discover more in the Road Cycling Routes around Les Salles-Sur-Verdon guide. There are also mountain hikes available, like the 'Plein Voir – Col de l'Âne loop', detailed in the Mountain Hikes around Les Salles-Sur-Verdon guide.
The region's climate is favorable for outdoor activities for much of the year. For swimming and water sports, the warmer months, typically from late spring to early autumn, are ideal when the water is most inviting. The clear waters and serene atmosphere are perfect for relaxation during this period.
Yes, the area around Lake Sainte-Croix and the village of Les Salles-sur-Verdon offers various amenities to support visitors, including cafes and restaurants. These facilities cater to a range of outdoor pursuits and provide convenient options for refreshments and meals.
Visitors particularly appreciate the stunning turquoise color of Lake Sainte-Croix and the diverse viewpoints it offers. The connection to the majestic Gorges du Verdon and the opportunity for various water sports are also highly valued. The peaceful natural environment, ideal for hiking and relaxation, receives many upvotes and positive feedback from the komoot community.
While Lake Sainte-Croix is the most prominent, the wider Verdon Natural Park area includes other lakes like Lac d'Esparron and Lac de Quinson. These might offer a slightly quieter experience, though specific crowd levels can vary by season and day of the week.


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