Top 15 Lakes in Saône-et-Loire
Lakes in Saône-et-Loire offer diverse natural settings within the Burgundy-Franche-Comté region of France. The department features a variety of lakes and ponds, many of which were historically created to support the Canal du Centre. These bodies of water provide opportunities for outdoor activities and serve as habitats for local wildlife. The landscape includes both expansive lakes and smaller, tranquil ponds, often surrounded by forests or wetlands.
Best lakes in Saône-et-Loire
- The most popular lakes is Breuil Pond, a lake known for its natural beauty and walking paths, with old trees as a notable feature. It is a destination for Sunday walks and is located near a city campsite.
- Another must-see spot is Cloix Pond, a pond primarily used for fishing, featuring many fishing pontoons. Swimming is prohibited here.
- Visitors also love Lake Saint-Point, a lake that serves as a meeting place for cooling off in summer. Water activities are offered seasonally, and it is a location for picnics.
- Saône-et-Loire is known for large lakes, fishing ponds, and tranquil natural ponds. These bodies of water offer varied experiences, from water sports to quiet observation of wildlife.
- The lakes in Saône-et-Loire are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 150 upvotes and 6 photos contributed across 16 highlights.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
Fleurville Lake
Highlight • Lake
You can rest in the shade of the trees present throughout the site.
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Lake Saint-Point
Highlight • Lake
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Cloix Pond
Highlight • Forest
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Vauvillard Pond
Highlight • Lake
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Breuil Pond
Highlight • Lake
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Lake Park in Crissey
Highlight • Lake
You can take advantage of the fitness trail along the path that circles the lake and play areas for children.
For a gourmet break, the park has picnic tables and even a self-service barbecue nearby.
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Arrival at Collonge
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Domaine des Druides
Highlight • Forest
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Louvarel Lake Beach
Highlight • Beach
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Priory Ponds
Highlight (Segment) • Lake
South-east of Uchon, in the forest, are the remains of the priory known as the Montagne d'Uchon, founded in the 12th century by the monks of the Order of Val des Choux. It was flourishing in the 13th century and received, in 1344, a visit from Joan of France.
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Popular around Saône-et-Loire
The Grande traversée du Massif Central by gravel bike
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Burgundy-Franche-Comté by bike – between vineyards and peaks
EuroVelo 6 – between the Rhine and the Loire by bike
Allier Bourbonnais by bike – mythical routes and secret escapes
Les Vélœno71 – discover the grape varieties of Saône-et-Loire
A green escape along the Loire river – La Véloire
Other adventures in Saône-et-Loire
Tips from the Community
The Plan d'Eau de Fleurville (also known as Gravière de Fleurville) is a beautiful recreational and natural lake in the Saône-et-Loire department. The body of water is located directly on the border of the municipalities of Saint-Albain and Fleurville on the Saône. It is a former gravel pit that has been renatured and is today an important refuge for biodiversity as well as a popular excursion destination. The lake is equipped with picnic tables, fishing piers, and observation points. It is an excellent place for hiking, cycling (near the Voie Bleue cycle path), and birdwatching (e.g. for storks and migratory birds).
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Peaceful village with a lake and campsite, a detour that is worth it.
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The lake is located in the Doubs department in the French region of Bourgogne-Franche-Comté at an altitude of around 850 meters. After Lac du Bourget and Lac d'Annecy, it is the third largest natural lake in France. It is a very popular lake for swimming in the summer and offers opportunities for kayaking, windsurfing, and stand-up paddling. There is also a popular hiking trail around the entire lake, approximately 20 kilometers long.
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Beautiful hike, well-shaded route, ideal to do when it's hot.
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A small, well-hidden lake nestled in its greenery. Set foot on land and find a quiet spot by the water for your lunch break or a nap. The place is peaceful and incredibly beneficial.
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Beautifully located lake with a great place to stop for a break...
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Lake Saint-Point is nicknamed Saint-Point-Lamartine. It's a nice meeting place to cool off in summer and have a picnic with family or friends. Water activities are offered in season.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes in Saône-et-Loire are best for families?
Several lakes in Saône-et-Loire are ideal for families. Lac de Montaubry features the Plage des Patins, a gently sloping beach perfect for children, along with shaded picnic areas. Étang du Paluet in Matour offers a pleasant environment for walking and picnicking, with nearby amenities like a swimming pool, mini-golf, and a pumptrack. Fleurville Lake provides picnic tables and relaxation areas to observe wildlife, while Lake Saint-Point is a popular spot for cooling off and picnics, with seasonal water activities.
What kind of water sports can I enjoy on the lakes?
Saône-et-Loire's lakes offer a range of water sports. Lac de Montaubry is excellent for paddleboarding, windsurfing, wakeboarding, and waterskiing. Lac de Torcy is a significant center for water sports, regularly hosting national and international rowing competitions, and also offers sailing and paddleboarding. Lake Saint-Point also provides various water activities seasonally.
Are there good fishing spots in Saône-et-Loire's lakes?
Yes, fishing is a very popular activity. Lac de Montaubry allows fishing for white fish, zander, pike, perch, and carp, with a dedicated night carp fishing route. Lac de Torcy is also a popular fishing destination. The Grand Étang de La Clayette is renowned for carp fishing, with 21 designated posts and night fishing options. Étang de la Noue and Étang du Paluet are also noted for their fishing opportunities. Please note that swimming is prohibited at Cloix Pond, which is primarily used for fishing.
Which lakes are best for nature observation and birdwatching?
For nature lovers and birdwatchers, Étang de la Noue is an excellent choice. Bordered by a wetland, it's known for attracting various duck species, common snipe, and occasionally black storks and white-tailed eagles, especially during winter and migration periods. Fleurville Lake also offers opportunities to observe surrounding wildlife from its relaxation and observation areas.
Can I find hiking or walking trails around the lakes?
Absolutely. A 13.5 km trail around Lac de Montaubry is popular for hiking. Étang de la Noue has walking paths along the Ouanne river. Many lakes, including Étang du Paluet and Breuil Pond, offer pleasant walking environments. For more options, you can explore nearby routes like the 'Le chemin des Chèvres' loop in the Morvan Regional Natural Park, which is an easy hike. Find more hiking trails in the region on the Easy hikes in Saône-et-Loire guide.
Are there any lakes with historical significance or nearby cultural sites?
Yes, the Grand Étang de La Clayette offers a unique combination of natural beauty and history, bordering the picturesque 14th-century Château de la Clayette. The castle's reflection in the water provides a stunning backdrop. Additionally, many lakes like Lac de Montaubry and Lac de Torcy were historically created to supply the Canal du Centre, reflecting the region's industrial heritage.
What are some popular lakes for a relaxing day outdoors?
For a relaxing day, Lac de Montaubry is ideal with its family-friendly beach and picnic areas. Lac de Torcy offers a calm and natural environment for peaceful walks. Étang de la Noue is perfect for those seeking tranquility in a natural setting. Vauvillard Pond is described as a peaceful and incredibly beneficial spot for a break or a nap.
Are there any lakes suitable for cycling?
Yes, Étang du Paluet is ideal for cycling. The route along the Saône near Fleurville Lake is also beautiful for cyclists, being flat with a good road surface. You can also find various cycling routes in the region that pass by or near these lakes.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the lakes in Saône-et-Loire?
Visitors appreciate the diverse natural settings and the range of activities available. Many enjoy the peaceful breaks and opportunities to observe wildlife, as noted at Fleurville Lake and Étang de la Noue. The family-friendly amenities, such as the beach at Lac de Montaubry and picnic spots at Lake Saint-Point, are also highly valued. The scenic beauty, like the old trees at Breuil Pond, is often highlighted.
Are there any lakes with facilities or amenities nearby?
Yes, several lakes offer convenient facilities. Lac de Montaubry has shaded picnic tables and a dedicated club for water sports. Étang du Paluet is close to Matour village, providing access to tennis courts, a swimming pool, mini-golf, and a pumptrack. Fleurville Lake is equipped with picnic tables, pontoons, and observation areas. Louvarel Lake and Lake Park in Crissey also have facilities available.
When is the best time to visit the lakes in Saône-et-Loire?
The lakes are enjoyable throughout the year, but summer is particularly popular for water activities and cooling off, especially at Lake Saint-Point. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for walking, cycling, and nature observation, with Étang de la Noue being notable for birdwatching during migration periods and in winter. The region's natural beauty can be appreciated in all seasons.
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Still not found your perfect lake in Saône-et-Loire? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
