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France
Auvergne Rhône Alpes
Saint-Étienne

La Talaudière

Top 5 Lakes around La Talaudière

Best lakes around La Talaudière are primarily found in the surrounding Loire department, as the commune itself does not contain significant natural lakes. The region near Saint-Étienne features several notable reservoirs and artificial lakes. These bodies of water, often formed by dams on rivers like the Loire, provide recreational opportunities and scenic landscapes. The area offers a variety of man-made lakes and reservoirs for outdoor activities.

Best lakes around La Talaudière

  • The most popular is Rive dam spillway, an…

Last updated: May 24, 2026

Rive dam spillway

Highlight • Structure

The Rive dam discharges its waters into the Gier reservoir which itself relies on the Soulages dam further south. The view from the dam allows you to see the downstream dam and the Gier water reservoir.

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Cotatay Dam

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Nice example of a dam where you can walk under the structure that overlooks you. Impressive.

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Soulages Dam

Highlight • Monument

The Soulages dam is unlike other dams in the region with its impressive arched construction.

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Gier Reservoir

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This path borders the Gier water reservoir. Some technical parts require the use of a handrail. The setting is very bucolic.

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Pont Souvignet Dam

Highlight (Segment) • Monument

Small track along the reservoir then the watercourse.
Despite logging, the surface is still easily passable in Gravel.
This section in the undergrowth along the water is bucolic

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Popular around La Talaudière

Road Cycling Routes around La Talaudière

Cycling around La Talaudière

MTB Trails around La Talaudière

Hiking around La Talaudière

Running Trails around La Talaudière

Gravel biking around La Talaudière

Tips from the Community

Chabha CHAIB BEZIAT
August 16, 2025, Barrage de Soulages

magnificent with a small, rather steep passage (good shoes recommended)

Translated by Google

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Small track along the reservoir then the watercourse. Despite logging, the surface is still easily passable in Gravel. This section in the undergrowth along the water is bucolic

Translated by Google

0

0

This path borders the Gier water reservoir. Some technical parts require the use of a handrail. The setting is very bucolic.

Translated by Google

0

0

The Rive dam discharges its waters into the Gier reservoir which itself relies on the Soulages dam further south. The view from the dam allows you to see the downstream dam and the Gier water reservoir.

Translated by Google

0

1

The Soulages dam is unlike other dams in the region with its impressive arched construction.

Translated by Google

2

0

Paul_C
March 6, 2023, Cotatay Dam

Nice example of a dam where you can walk under the structure that overlooks you. Impressive.

Translated by Google

2

0

Nice view of the lakes.

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Max
November 20, 2022, Cotatay Dam

access by the southwest path is steep with some stones. Access by the northwest path under the road is pleasant and not too steep with views over the Cotatay valley.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What types of lakes can I find around La Talaudière?

The area around La Talaudière primarily features reservoirs and artificial lakes, as the commune itself does not contain significant natural lakes. These bodies of water were often created by dams on rivers like the Loire, offering scenic landscapes and recreational opportunities.

What activities are available at Lac de Grangent?

Lac de Grangent, located in the Gorges de la Loire, offers a wide range of activities. You can enjoy a sandy beach, a marina, and a water sports center at Saint Victor sur Loire. Activities include sailing, pedal boating, canoeing, fishing, water skiing, and boat tours of the lake.

Are there any historical dams or unique structures to visit?

Yes, the region has several notable dams. The Cotatay Dam is an impressive man-made monument where you can walk directly under the structure. The Soulages Dam is also unique with its impressive arched construction, distinguishing it from other dams in the region. Additionally, the Couzon Dam, built in 1787, is one of France's oldest dams.

Where can I go for a scenic walk around a reservoir?

You can find pleasant walks around several reservoirs. The Gier Reservoir offers a bucolic setting with a path bordering the water, though some sections may require a handrail. The area around the Couzon Dam also provides a pleasant space for a stroll.

What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes and dams?

Beyond water sports at Lac de Grangent, the surrounding area offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous cycling and mountain biking routes. For example, there are several challenging cycling routes and MTB trails around La Talaudière that pass near these water bodies, offering diverse terrain for all skill levels.

Are there specific hiking trails around the dams or reservoirs?

Yes, some dams and reservoirs feature dedicated paths. The Gier Reservoir has a path that borders the water, offering a bucolic setting. For the Cotatay Dam, access via the northwest path is pleasant and less steep, providing views over the Cotatay valley.

What do visitors enjoy most about the Rive dam spillway?

Visitors appreciate the Rive dam spillway for its beautiful views. From the dam, you can see the downstream dam and the Gier water reservoir, offering a picturesque perspective of the surrounding landscape.

Is there parking available near these lakes and dams?

While specific parking details for every location are not always listed, popular recreational areas like Saint Victor sur Loire at Lac de Grangent typically offer parking facilities due to the range of activities available. For other dams and reservoirs, parking might be more limited, often found near access points or trailheads.

What is the best time to visit the lakes around La Talaudière?

The lakes and reservoirs are pleasant to visit throughout the year. Spring and autumn offer comfortable temperatures for walking and exploring the scenic views. Summer is ideal for water-based activities at Lac de Grangent, while the dams like Cotatay Dam are noted as being pleasant in any season.

Are there any hidden gem lakes or lesser-known spots?

While not a 'hidden gem' in the traditional sense, the Pont Souvignet Dam offers a charming experience. It features a small track along its reservoir and watercourse, providing a bucolic section through undergrowth that is easily passable, even for gravel biking.

Can I find places to eat or stay near these lakes?

Yes, particularly around Lac de Grangent, the village of Saint Victor sur Loire offers amenities. You can find restaurants, cafes, pubs, and accommodation options there, catering to visitors enjoying the lake's recreational facilities.

Are the paths around the dams and reservoirs accessible for all skill levels?

Paths vary in difficulty. For instance, the path bordering the Gier Reservoir includes some technical sections that may require the use of a handrail. Access to the Cotatay Dam via the southwest path is steep with some stones, suggesting good shoes are recommended for certain areas.

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

PilatThélis-La-CombeSaint-Genest-MalifauxLa Valla-En-GierLe BessatPlanfoyTarentaiseSaint-ChamondLa VersanneRive-De-GierColombierVéranneGraixDoizieuxSaint-Jean-BonnefondsLa Terrasse-Sur-DorlayRoiseyPélussinLe Chambon-Feugerolles

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