search
search
add New trip
Destinations › … › France › Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur

Lac de Serre-Ponçon

calendar_monthMay–Jun, Sep–Octbest time schedule3 daysplan for directions_car3 h 50from Nice child_careYeswith kids confirmation_numberMid-rangeprice
Lac de Serre-PonçonYour own route Plan a trip here →

Lac de Serre-Ponçon is a large artificial lake in the French Alps, surrounded by mountains and charming villages. The lake is known for its clear blue waters and offers a variety of outdoor activities, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

Read more

Visitors can enjoy the scenic views from the lakeside promenades or engage in water sports like sailing and windsurfing. The area has a laid-back atmosphere, perfect for those looking to relax or explore nature.

Sightseeing

Serre-Ponçon Lake: a vast lake ideal for water activities
Embrun: a historic town with a beautiful cathedral
Chorges: a quaint village with traditional architecture
Les Orres: a ski resort with year-round activities
Mont Guillaume: a mountain offering hiking trails and views
Lac de Serre-Ponçon Dam: an impressive engineering feat
Barrage de Serre-Ponçon: a notable dam with visitor access
Ecrins National Park: a nearby park with diverse wildlife

"Nature and adventure await you"Lac de Serre-Ponçon

Things to do

Sailing on the lake: rent a boat for a day
Hiking in the surrounding mountains: explore various trails
Cycling along the lake: enjoy scenic bike paths
Fishing in the lake: try your luck with local fish
Visiting local markets: experience regional produce and crafts

Local food and drinks

Tartiflette: a cheesy potato dish popular in the region
Ratatouille: a vegetable dish showcasing local produce
Local wines: taste wines from nearby vineyards
Savoyard fondue: melted cheese served with bread
Crepes: sweet or savory pancakes available at many cafes

Local traditions

Fête de la Saint-Jean: a summer festival with bonfires
Local markets: held weekly, showcasing regional goods
Winter sports events: competitions in skiing and snowboarding
Harvest festivals: celebrating local produce in autumn

Do's and don'ts

Explore the hiking trails around the lake
Try local dishes at family-owned restaurants
Attend local festivals for a cultural experience
Respect nature and follow local guidelines
Don't swim in areas marked as unsafe
Don't litter; keep the environment clean
Don't ignore weather warnings when hiking
Don't rush; take time to enjoy the scenery

Practical

At a glance

Founded
1960
Population
2.000
Accessibility
Some areas are accessible, but others have steep paths.
Price level
Mid-range

Things to know

Public transport options are limited; a car is recommended
Some areas can be crowded during peak summer months
Be cautious of changing weather conditions in the mountains
Watch for local wildlife while hiking or cycling
history_eduHistoryexpand_more

Lac de Serre-Ponçon was created in the 1960s with the construction of a dam to provide hydroelectric power and irrigation. The lake flooded several villages, altering the landscape and creating a new recreational area.

The region has a rich history, with evidence of human settlement dating back to prehistoric times. The nearby towns have preserved their historical architecture, reflecting the area's cultural heritage.