Top 4 Lakes around Vichy
Best lakes around Vichy are centered around the Lac d'Allier, an urban lake established in 1963 as an extension of the Allier river. This body of water spans 120 hectares and extends for 2.5 km, integrating directly with the city center. The lake is surrounded by green spaces and parks, including Napoleon Park, Kennedy Park, and Parc Omnisports Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes-Vichy. It serves as a hub for leisure and sporting activities, offering a 6 km circuit for walking, jogging, and cycling.
Best lakes around Vichy
- The most popular lakes is Lake Saint-Clément, a lake that is artificial and created by a hydroelectric dam, offering a 4.85 km loop trail. It provides views of the water and surrounding forest, with activities like tree climbing, foot golf, pedalo, and paddle available.
- Another must-see spot is Lac des Moines, a fishing lake just outside Mayet-de-Monatgne. It features picnic tables and a small restaurant on its banks.
- Visitors also love Chavroches Castle and Pond, a former castle of Bourbonnais. Its dungeon is visible from afar, overlooking a small pond.
- Vichy is known for artificial lakes, fishing lakes, and lakes associated with historical sites. These bodies of water offer diverse options for hiking, water sports, and relaxation.
- The lakes around Vichy are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 18 upvotes and 4 photos shared.
Last updated: May 8, 2026
Lake Saint-Clément
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Lac des Moines
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
Chavroches Castle and Pond
Highlight • Castle
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Vichy
Via Allier – The Auvergne cycle route
Destination Grand'R — the largest FFC-MTB area in France
Allier Bourbonnais by bike – mythical routes and secret escapes
Discover the Vichy Montagne Bourbonnaise — roll, breathe, radiate
Via Allier – discovering the Auvergne by bike
The Loire from ocean to source – GR 3 between Gilly-sur-Loire and Chabreloche
‘La Joyeuse Vadrouille’ – two months cycling with the family
Hiking around Vichy
MTB Trails around Vichy
Cycling around Vichy
Other adventures around Vichy
Tips from the Community
Lac de Saint-Clément is an artificial lake created by a hydroelectric dam and offers a 4.85 km loop trail, easy to follow and suitable for all levels. You can enjoy the view of the water and the surrounding forest, and listen to the song of the birds all along the route.
2
0
Very accessible course around the artificial lake of Saint Clement. Lots of activities around (tree climbing, foot golf, pedalo, paddle, etc.)
0
0
Fishing lake just outside Mayet-de-Monatgne with picnic tables and a small restaurant on its banks. Perfect for a quiet lunch break!
1
0
Former castle of Bourbonnais, the castle of Chavroches, which is private, is built on a hill overlooking a small pond. You can see his dungeon from afar.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main lake in Vichy and what activities does it offer?
The primary lake directly in Vichy is the Lac d'Allier. It's an urban lake known for a wide range of activities, including water sports like rowing, water skiing, and wakeboarding. You can also rent stand-up paddles, canoes, or boats. The lake features a popular 6 km circuit perfect for walking, jogging, rollerblading, or cycling, with scenic views and green spaces.
Are there family-friendly lakes around Vichy?
Yes, several lakes offer family-friendly activities. Lake Saint-Clément is an excellent choice, providing activities such as tree climbing, foot golf, pedalo, and paddleboarding. Lac des Moines is also family-friendly, offering picnic tables and a small restaurant, ideal for a quiet lunch break.
What kind of hiking trails can I find near the lakes around Vichy?
You can find various hiking opportunities. Lake Saint-Clément features an easy 4.85 km loop trail suitable for all levels, offering views of the water and surrounding forest. For more hiking options in the broader region, you can explore routes like the 'Pisserotte Waterfall' loops mentioned in the Waterfall hikes around Vichy guide.
Are there historical sites associated with the lakes in the Vichy area?
Yes, the region combines natural beauty with historical interest. For example, Chavroches Castle and Pond features a former Bourbonnais castle with its dungeon visible from afar, overlooking a small pond. The Lac d'Allier itself has historical significance, established in 1963 as an extension of the Allier river, with roots tracing back to a smaller lake designed by Napoleon III.
Can I cycle around the lakes near Vichy?
Absolutely. The Lac d'Allier offers a popular 6 km circuit that is perfect for cycling, jogging, or rollerblading, providing continuous views of the city and its natural surroundings. For more extensive cycling adventures, you can find various routes in guides like Cycling around Vichy and Road Cycling Routes around Vichy.
What amenities are available at Lac des Moines?
Lac des Moines is a tranquil fishing lake located just outside Mayet-de-Montagne. It provides picnic tables for visitors and features a small restaurant on its banks, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing break.
What makes Lake Saint-Clément a popular destination?
Lake Saint-Clément is popular due to its artificial nature, created by a hydroelectric dam, and its accessible 4.85 km loop trail. Visitors enjoy the scenic views of the water and surrounding forest, along with a variety of activities such as tree climbing, foot golf, pedalo, and paddleboarding.
Are there places to eat or have a drink near the lakes?
Yes, particularly around the Lac d'Allier, you'll find
Are there places to eat or have a drink near the lakes?
Yes, particularly around the Lac d'Allier, you'll find
Are there places to eat or have a drink near the lakes?
Yes, particularly around the Lac d'Allier, you'll find
Are there places to eat or have a drink near the lakes?
Yes, particularly around the Lac d'Allier, you'll find
Are there places to eat or have a drink near the lakes?
Yes, particularly around the Lac d'Allier, you'll find
Are there places to eat or have a drink near the lakes?
Yes, particularly around the Lac d'Allier, you'll find
Are there places to eat or have a drink near the lakes?
Yes, particularly around the Lac d'Allier, you'll find
Are there places to eat or have a drink near the lakes?
Yes, particularly around the Lac d'Allier, you'll find
Most popular routes around Vichy
Most popular attractions around Vichy
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Didn’t find what you were looking for?
Find the best lakes around Vichy per region:
Explore more
Still not found your perfect lake around Vichy? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
