サン＝ネクテールの湖・トップ10

Pretty

This is undoubtedly the most beautiful lake in the heart of the Auvergne volcanoes. A magical atmosphere reigns here.

Surrounded by dense forests and steep cliffs, Lake Pavin is distinguished by its deep blue waters that reflect the surrounding vegetation. This enchanting setting, accessible by a trail, combines perfectly with breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.

an easy walk done out of season https://youtu.be/3TCmbiwuhhw?si=6mGavFVqqwFRZeYa

If you are looking for a scenic and relaxing bike ride in the heart of Auvergne, you can head to Lac d'Aydat. It is the largest natural lake in the region, formed by a volcanic dam. You can cycle around the lake on a well-marked trail that offers stunning views of the water and surrounding mountains. You can also enjoy lake activities, such as swimming, fishing, sailing or kayaking. Lake Aydat is an ideal destination for a day trip or weekend getaway.

The lake can be walked around, hiking trails branch off. We used the parking lot as a base for our hikes.

A creation of the Count of Montlosier, L'Étang de Montlosier is more of a landscape creation. It is artificially created by diversion of the Randanne which then bumps against the lava flow of the Puys de la Vache and Lassolas. The pond covers an area of nearly 1.5 hectares and has no apparent water outlet. This disappears, in fact, in the volcanic strata at the foot of the puys of Lassolas, La Vache, and Mercœur. After a political career spent abroad, François Dominique de Reynaud, Count of Montlosier, tired of political intrigues, retired to his land in Montlosier in 1816. It is a very poor land where agriculture is impossible. The count undertakes to make it possible by transforming the landscape, a work that will take him 22 years. Living with his son in a cottage, he first took care of housing the cattle. The castle will be built later, in 1820. Then, he takes care of clearing, restoring the soil, making hydraulic arrangements and finally cultivating. It goes without saying that the landscape is profoundly modified.

Lake Pavin is a marvel, yet the name Pavin from which it comes means appalling. Its circular shape leaves no doubt as to its origin: a gigantic volcanic explosion. When we look at its calm waters, it is difficult to imagine how dreadful its creation some 6,900 years ago was. The explosion that formed it was indeed very violent: traces of this maar were found even in the sediments of Lake Geneva in Switzerland.