Top 20 Lakes in Occitania
Best lakes in Occitania provide a variety of natural and artificial aquatic environments across this diverse southern French region. From high-altitude glacial lakes in the Pyrenees to large reservoirs in the lowlands, these bodies of water are integrated into varied landscapes. The region's lakes offer opportunities for outdoor activities and serve as notable natural features.
Best lakes in Occitania
- The most popular lakes include Les Laquettes, a group of small ponds and pools irrigated by winter snow and overflow from surrounding lakes. These wetlands are located below Lake Aubert at an altitude of 2,085 meters.
- Another must-see spot is Lake Gaube, a lake that highlights the Vignemale massif. Its ease of access makes it a site for day walkers, offering magnificent views both upstream and downstream.
- Visitors also love Lake Orédon, a lake considered one of the most impressive in the Néouvielle massif. With mountains that plunge steeply into its waters, it presents a fjord-like appearance.
- Occitania is known for its high-mountain lakes, large artificial reservoirs, and coastal lagoons. These diverse aquatic environments provide a wide range of experiences for exploration.
- The lakes in Occitania are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 400 upvotes and over 170 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: June 22, 2026
Lake Gaube
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Gruissan Lagoon
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Lac d'Oô
Highlight • Lake
Its emblematic waterfall of 275 meters also contributes to the fame of this remarkable natural site.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Lake Bouillouses
Highlight • Lake
In the summer, due to the large influx of tourists, access is restricted in July to a bus that connects the car park below with the dam above.
The name derives from the Latin BULLIRE 'to boil, to be in a boil, to spring'; applied mainly to waters that emerge strongly.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Lake Orédon
Highlight • Lake
With the mountains that throw themselves steeply into its waters, Lake Orédon looks like a fjord that makes it very different from all the other bodies of water in the reserve. To have !
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Œil Doux Sinkhole
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
View of the Pont d'Espagne waterfalls
Highlight • Waterfall
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Lac d'Aubert
Highlight • Lake
An orientation table allows you to put small names on the peaks that surround the lake. So you will be able to locate the Néouvielle peak.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Between the Étang du Méjean and the Étang de l'Arnel
Highlight • Cycleway
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Salagou Dam
Highlight • Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more lakes in Occitania.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Occitania
Triathlon 360 – my journey around the world
European Divide Trail — 7,600 km across the continent
The Grande traversée du Massif Central by gravel bike
GR 36 long-distance footpath – Cross France from the Channel to the Pyrenees
GR 4 – Crossing the south of France from Atlantic Coast to Provence
The Crossing of the Pyrenees via the GR 10 — Eastern Pyrenees
Hexatrek, the western and central Pyrenees – Between mountains and the ocean
GR 10 – Explore the Ariège Pyrenees crossing the Pyrenees
GR 10 – Central Pyrenees crossing the Pyrenees
Tour of the Balaïtous – From passes to lakes
Other adventures in Occitania
Tips from the Community
One of the most beautiful lakes in France, clearly!!
0
0
Cross the dam and climb up to admire the lake from the heights, it's magnificent !!
0
0
... view of the bridge and the waterfall.
2
0
A phenomenal mountain lake that gets crowded later in the summer.
2
0
The pond can be easily circumnavigated by bike, it is worth it
0
0
The Salagou dam, located in Hérault, is a spectacular site surrounded by contrasting landscapes, where the red earth of the ruffes mixes with the blue waters of the lake. This dam, which created the famous Salagou lake, offers an ideal setting for nature and outdoor activity lovers. As you walk along the banks, you can admire the unique rock formations and enjoy panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding hills.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes in Occitania are most popular with visitors?
Many lakes in Occitania are highly appreciated by the komoot community. Among the most popular are Lake Gaube, known for its stunning views of the Vignemale massif and easy accessibility for day walkers. Lake Orédon is also a favorite, offering a unique fjord-like appearance with mountains plunging steeply into its waters. Additionally, Les Laquettes, a group of small ponds below Lake Aubert, are celebrated for their natural beauty.
Are there lakes in Occitania suitable for family activities?
Yes, several lakes are excellent for families. Lac de Génos-Loudenvielle in the Louron valley offers a wide range of family-friendly activities including canoeing, pedal boating, paddleboarding, swimming, and an aquapark. The Léran side of Lac de Montbel is also very family-friendly, featuring a large supervised beach, shade, and picnic areas. Lac de Saint-Ferréol is another great option with supervised swimming, a 4.5 km trail for hiking and biking, and various watersports.
Which lakes offer unique natural features or landscapes?
Occitania boasts lakes with truly distinctive natural features. Lac de Salagou is famous for its striking red earth and black basalt rock formations, creating a 'Martian postcard' landscape. Lac des Bouillouses, situated at 2,016 meters, offers breathtaking high-mountain scenery at the foot of the Carlit and Peric mountains. Lake Orédon is notable for its fjord-like appearance, with mountains dramatically meeting the water.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near the lakes in Occitania?
The lakes in Occitania are hubs for various outdoor activities. You can find excellent mountain hikes, including routes near Lac des Bouillouses which is a starting point for trails to Pic du Carlit. Many lakes, like Lac de Salagou and Lac de Montbel, offer extensive trails for mountain biking and gravel biking, as well as walking paths. Watersports such as paddleboarding, canoeing, sailing, and swimming are popular at lakes like Lac de Salagou, Lac de Montbel, and Lac de Saint-Ferréol.
Are there any lakes with historical significance in Occitania?
Yes, Lac de Saint-Ferréol is a UNESCO World Heritage site with significant historical importance. Built between 1667 and 1680, it was once the largest reservoir in the western world, designed to supply the Canal du Midi. The lake features a historic 17th-century dyke and an English-style park, making it a marvel of engineering and history.
Which lakes are good for swimming and watersports?
For swimming and watersports, Lac de Montbel is the largest inland watersports lake in the southwest of France, offering swimming (supervised in summer), canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, and windsurfing. Lac de Salagou also provides supervised beaches and is ideal for non-motorized nautical sports. Lac de Saint-Ferréol and Lac de Génos-Loudenvielle also offer supervised swimming and a variety of watersports.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes in Occitania?
The best time to visit depends on your preferred activities. For swimming and watersports, the summer months (June to August) are ideal when beaches are supervised and the weather is warm. For hiking and cycling, spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, especially around high-altitude lakes like Lac des Bouillouses before winter snows. Some high-mountain lakes may have restricted vehicle access in summer to protect the environment, requiring shuttle buses or chairlifts.
Are there any less crowded or 'hidden gem' lakes in the region?
While many lakes are popular, some offer more tranquility. Lac de Montbel, despite its size, is relatively undeveloped, providing peace and privacy, especially on its wild beaches. The numerous smaller ponds surrounding Lac des Bouillouses, known as the Carlit ponds, can offer more secluded spots for exploration away from the main lake. For a truly remote feel, exploring the various lakes within the Néouvielle massif, such as Lac d'Aubert, can provide a serene experience.
Can I find hiking trails around the lakes in Occitania?
Absolutely. Many lakes feature dedicated hiking trails. There's a 27-28 km trail around Lac de Salagou, perfect for hiking and mountain biking. Lac de Montbel has a 16 km path circling its shores, and Lac de Saint-Ferréol offers a pleasant 4.5 km trail. High-mountain lakes like Lac des Bouillouses are popular starting points for more challenging mountain hikes, including routes to Pic du Carlit.
What makes the Pyrenean lakes in Occitania special?
The Pyrenean lakes in Occitania are renowned for their dramatic high-mountain settings and pristine natural environments. Lakes like Lac des Bouillouses, Lac d'Oô (with its emblematic 275-meter waterfall), Lake Gaube, and Lake Orédon offer rugged landscapes, clear waters, and opportunities to spot wildlife. They are often starting points for challenging treks and provide breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks.
Are there any lakes known for fishing in Occitania?
Yes, several lakes are popular fishing spots. Lac de Salagou is renowned for carnivorous and carp fishing. Lac de Montbel and Lac de Saint-Ferréol also offer good fishing opportunities, with species like zander, perch, and carp. In the high-mountain areas, Lac des Bouillouses is known for rainbow trout fishing.
Most popular routes in Occitania
Most popular attractions in Occitania
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Didn’t find what you were looking for?
Find the best lakes in Occitania per region:
Explore more
Still not found your perfect lake in Occitania? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
