Best lakes around Puy-Sanières include the majestic Lac de Serre-Ponçon and the local l'Étang de L'Écluse. Puy-Sanières, located in the Hautes-Alpes region of France, offers access to these distinct natural features. The area provides panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains, along with various recreational opportunities.
Last updated: May 26, 2026
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I tried to get up with my bike. push biken a lot, but without knowing what the terrain would be I ended walking up the last 800m aprox. Maybe I could have made it with bike to the top, but hell it was certainly the most crazy things have done. Great, technical rock downhill.
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The Chanteloube viaduct, located on the Serre-Ponçon lake, is an unusual place. Built for a railway line that was never completed, this partially submerged viaduct offers a fascinating spectacle, with its arches reflected in the turquoise waters of the lake.
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Very nice to pass over this bridge but pay attention to the traffic.
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The loop to the Joubelle cabin is very pleasant to do, from the lake parking lot.
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The Chanteloube viaduct, located in the town of Chorges, emerges like a silent vestige of a bygone era. Started in the early 1900s, it was initially intended to connect Chorges to Barcelonnette by rail. The project was finally abandoned in the 1930s. Each year, in the spring, as the lake swells from melting snow and seasonal rains, the viaduct disappears beneath the waters. However, in winter, when the lake level drops, the viaduct emerges from its aquatic lethargy, revealing its majestic arches and solid pillars.
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For a family-friendly experience, consider Lac de Saint-Apollinaire, which allows swimming and offers many shaded areas, perfect for a good time with family. The Chanteloube Viaduct, partially submerged in Lac de Serre-Ponçon, also offers a fascinating spectacle that families might enjoy. Additionally, l'Étang de L'Écluse, located within Puy-Sanières, is a tranquil picnic spot ideal for a relaxed family outing.
The Lac de Serre-Ponçon area is a hub for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy a wide array of water sports such as canyoning, via ferrata, and climbing. For cycling enthusiasts, the roads overlooking Lac de Serre-Ponçon are very popular. You can find detailed routes for road cycling, gravel biking, and general cycling around Puy-Sanières.
Yes, Puy-Sanières offers superb panoramic views of Lac de Serre-Ponçon. Elevated points like the Plateau des Puys near the Saint-Pierre church provide exceptional vistas. The Savines Bridge on Lake Serre-Ponçon also offers views of the lake as you cross. For a more challenging hike with a magnificent 200° view, consider Mount Guillaume.
Yes, swimming is allowed in Lac de Saint-Apollinaire, which is a popular spot for a refreshing dip. Lac de Serre-Ponçon also offers designated areas for swimming and relaxation along its shores.
L'Étang de L'Écluse is a tranquil pond nestled within Puy-Sanières at an altitude of 1167 meters. It's an ideal spot for a pleasant picnic, where you can enjoy the shade of century-old willows and take in views of the Aiguilles de Chabrières and the Pic de Morgon. It can also be integrated as a break point into various hiking trails starting from the village.
Absolutely. The Chanteloube Viaduct is a unique man-made monument, partially submerged in Lac de Serre-Ponçon, offering a fascinating spectacle with its arches reflected in the turquoise waters. The Savines Bridge on Lake Serre-Ponçon is another notable structure. Naturally, the vast expanse of Lac de Serre-Ponçon itself, surrounded by mountains like Grand Morgon and Aiguilles de Chabrières, is a stunning feature.
Visitors frequently praise the magnificent views of Lac de Serre-Ponçon and the surrounding mountains. They appreciate the variety of recreational opportunities, from water sports to tranquil picnic spots like l'Étang de L'Écluse. The community has shared over 120 photos and given more than 250 upvotes, highlighting the area's natural beauty and diverse activities.
Yes, for those seeking a challenge, the ascent of Mount Guillaume offers a rewarding experience with a fantastic 200° view of the lake. There's also a singletrack descent to Lac de Serre-Ponçon, which is a challenging mountain biking trail requiring good handling skills. The EmbrunMan triathlon, known as one of the toughest in the world, also utilizes routes overlooking Lac de Serre-Ponçon, indicating the presence of demanding terrain.
The region is generally best enjoyed during warmer months when water sports are in full swing and hiking trails are easily accessible. The summer offers ideal conditions for swimming, cycling, and enjoying the panoramic views. However, the natural beauty of the area can be appreciated across different seasons, with each offering a unique experience.
While specific cafes or pubs in Puy-Sanières are not detailed, Lac de Saint-Apollinaire has a bar for dining. The broader Lac de Serre-Ponçon area, being a popular tourist destination, offers various accommodation and dining options in nearby towns and villages.
Cycling is a very popular activity around Lac de Serre-Ponçon. Roads like the Route des Puys, which overlook the lake, are favored by cyclists. You can explore various routes, from road cycling to gravel biking, offering different levels of difficulty and scenic views.


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