Best lakes around Cornus are primarily artificial reservoirs and natural depressions, often nestled within the Orb mountains. This region, located in the Hérault department, is characterized by its water bodies created for irrigation, hydroelectric production, and livestock watering. Visitors can explore a variety of lakes, from large reservoirs to smaller, man-made water collection points. The area offers opportunities to observe impressive dam structures and serene lake views.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
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Consider booking a table at L'Avenette Gourmande restaurant, located in the small village of Avène. Enjoy a terrace overlooking the river, surrounded by nature. An exceptional setting and highly recommended traditional cuisine. I highly recommend it.
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Created in 1962 for hydroelectric production and regulation of the Orb river, the Lac des Monts d’Orb is 6 kilometres long and covers an area of 190 hectares. A former lead and silver mine is now submerged under the lake: the mines and their exploitation were a source of wealth for the Orb valley, from Antiquity until the 1950s. The lake is not intended for swimming, but you can have lovely accompanied outings on a stand-up paddle or kayak, and go fishing.
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The Lac d'Avène reservoir is located at an altitude of 430 m and its surface area is 1.9 km².
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This dam, built at the end of the 1960s, gave birth to the artificial lake of Avène, which covers an old lead and silver mine. Today a privileged place for fishing for trout, white fish and certain predators, its main interest remains the retention of water in order to irrigate the plains of Biterrois and to supply drinking water to the West of Hérault up to 'to the south of Aude. Its 83 meters in height and its “arch-dam” type architecture make it an impressive structure. Its level was historically low in the summer of 2023, reflecting the intensity of the droughts that affected the Hérault department.
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This impressive structure creates the Avène water reservoir. It is mainly used to irrigate the surrounding plains and to supply part of the Aude and Hérault with water. The construction, 87 meters high, dates from the early 60s. Look at both sides of the dam, the difference in level is quite staggering.
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This point of view offers a superb perspective on the Avène reservoir. It allows you to realize the magnitude of this serpent of turquoise water which weaves its way between the Orb mountains over six kilometres.
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The lavognes are natural depressions but sealed by man for centuries to collect rainwater to water livestock.
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a very quiet village for a break. camping lake pizzeria grocery store
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The region around Cornus features several interesting water bodies. The Lac d'Avène, also known as the Avène Reservoir, is a significant artificial lake created for hydroelectric production and river regulation. It's fed by the impressive Monts d'Orb Dam. You can also find the tranquil Lac de Bouloc, which is connected to Lac d'Avène, and unique historical water collectors called The Lavogne.
Yes, both the Lac de Bouloc and the Avène Reservoir are noted as family-friendly destinations. Lac de Bouloc is near a quiet village with amenities like camping, a pizzeria, and a grocery store, making it convenient for families. The Avène Reservoir offers a great natural area for exploration.
The area around Cornus offers a variety of outdoor activities. While the Lac d'Avène is not intended for swimming, you can enjoy accompanied stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and fishing. For land-based activities, there are numerous hiking trails, running routes, and road cycling routes available throughout the wider Cornus region.
Absolutely. The Lac d'Avène offers superb perspectives, allowing you to appreciate the magnitude of this turquoise water body winding through the Orb mountains. The Monts d'Orb Dam itself provides impressive views, especially when observing the staggering difference in water levels on both sides. Lac de Bouloc is also recognized for its scenic viewpoints.
The Monts d'Orb Dam, built in the early 1960s, is an 87-meter-high structure primarily used for irrigation and water supply. Its creation led to the formation of the Lac d'Avène, which submerged an old lead and silver mine, a significant source of wealth for the Orb valley from antiquity until the 1950s. Additionally, The Lavogne are ancient man-sealed natural depressions used for centuries to collect rainwater for livestock, showcasing traditional land management.
The Lac d'Avène is explicitly stated as not being intended for swimming. While specific information for other lakes isn't provided, it's always best to check local regulations and safety guidelines before attempting to swim in any natural body of water.
Beyond the lakes themselves, you can observe the fascinating Lavognes, which are natural depressions historically modified by humans to collect rainwater. The Avène Reservoir area is noted for nature reclaiming old roads, offering a sense of untouched wilderness.
The Lac d'Avène is a privileged place for fishing, with opportunities to catch trout, white fish, and certain predators. Specific species for other lakes are not detailed, but fishing is a popular activity in the region.
Near Lac de Bouloc, you'll find a quiet village that offers amenities such as a pizzeria and a grocery store. There is also camping available, making it convenient for visitors looking to stay overnight or grab a meal.
Exploring the area is best done through its extensive network of trails. You can find various hiking, running, and road cycling routes that allow you to discover the natural beauty and viewpoints of the region, including those around the lakes and the Monts d'Orb Dam.


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