Top 15 Lakes around Brassy

For breathtaking scenery, Lac de Chaumeçon is often celebrated as one of the most beautiful and 'wild' lakes in the Morvan region, known for its tranquil atmosphere and reflections of the surrounding forest. Lac de Pannecière, the largest lake in Morvan, also offers magnificent scenery, especially from its impressive dam. You can also experience a unique perspective of the water from the Wooden Footbridge on the Lake.

Yes, the lakes offer numerous hiking opportunities. For example, Lac de Chaumeçon has a 17-kilometer trail encircling it. Lac de Pannecière features multiple hiking loops, such as 'Les rives de Pannecière' (8km) and 'Les rives du petit lac' (14km), and is part of the longer Grande Randonnée de Pays Grand Tour du Morvan. You can find more hiking trails in the area by exploring the Hiking around Brassy guide.

Many lakes around Brassy are family-friendly. Lac de Pannecière has several beaches like Bonin beach and Chaumard beach, with play areas for children. Lake Saint-Agnan is also noted as family-friendly, offering pleasant views and a calm environment. The Settons Lake Dam and the Wooden Footbridge on the Lake are also popular family-friendly spots.

Absolutely. Fishing is a popular activity in the region. Lac de Chaumeçon is a prime location for fishing, especially for pike and other predatory fish. Lac de Pannecière is renowned as the Morvan's most fish-populated lake, abundant with perch, zander, carp, tench, and pike, and even offers night-time carp fishing.

The region is home to several significant historical dam structures. The Settons Lake Dam, completed in 1858, is the oldest in Morvan and was built in a unique pyramid shape. The Crescent Dam, built between 1929 and 1932, is another impressive gravity dam. Lac de Pannecière itself was created by a dam built between 1937 and 1949 to regulate the Seine River and prevent flooding in Paris.

Yes, water sports are popular. Lac de Chaumeçon allows swimming, paddleboarding, and canoeing, and is a popular spot for white water sports like rafting and kayaking on the nearby Chalaux and Cure rivers. On Lac de Pannecière, you can explore by kayak, stand-up paddle, or pedalo, and several beaches are available for swimming.

Yes, cycling is a great way to explore the area. Lac de Pannecière offers a scenic 48km 'route des crêtes' for cycling, along with other departmental routes forming a 22km circuit. The Lac des Settons dam area is also popular for cycling. You can find more cycling routes in the Cycling around Brassy guide.

The lakes are rich in wildlife. The smaller, upper section of Lac de Pannecière is particularly known as a haven for various bird species, especially during harsh winters, offering excellent opportunities for birdwatching from a dedicated wooden trail. The natural environment of lakes like Lac de Chaumeçon also supports diverse flora and fauna.

The lakes are beautiful year-round, but the best time depends on your preferred activities. Summer is ideal for swimming and water sports. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling, with beautiful foliage. Due to minimal light pollution, Lac de Chaumeçon is an excellent spot for stargazing, especially on clear nights.

While specific regulations can vary, generally, the natural areas around the lakes are welcoming for dogs, especially on trails and in less crowded areas. It's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash and clean up after them to preserve the natural environment. Check local signage for any specific restrictions, particularly around designated swimming areas or nature reserves.

Lac de Chaumeçon is often described as one of the most 'wild' and tranquil lakes in the Morvan. Its unique charm comes from the prohibition of thermal motors on the lake, ensuring a peaceful environment. It's an excellent spot for nature observation, quiet water activities like paddleboarding, and stargazing due to minimal light pollution.

The region is known for its artificial lakes and their associated dams. The Settons Lake Dam is the oldest in Morvan, built in a pyramid shape. The Crescent Dam is a significant gravity dam built to regulate the Yonne and Seine rivers. Lac de Pannecière features an imposing 49-meter high dam that can be crossed for panoramic views. Lake Saint-Agnan also has a notable dam, 1,600 meters long and 16 meters high, made of compacted Arena granite.