オルシーヌの湖・トップ5

Much smaller but quieter and less touristy than Lake Aydat, great picnic tables.

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.

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.

Located between Blanzat and Nohanent, the Vallée du Bédat storm basin is a pretty body of water with landscaped banks.

Aydat Lake owes its formation to a lava flow that obstructed the passage of the Veyre. It is the largest natural body of water in Auvergne, and various aquatic activities are offered with a bathing area and the possibility of going around the lake.

Very nice pond. Easy to access, a walk goes around it. Observatories allow you to discreetly discover the birds and other species that frequent the site. This pond is home to many migratory birds.