France is home to some of the most iconic lakes in Europe, and here are the most beautiful lakes you need to visit, ranked.
France is known for its superb cuisine, superb ski resorts, iconic landmarks and diverse landscapes. Of course, visiting France means hiking through gorges, boat trips on the Côte d’Azur, and even spotting flamingos in the wild.
However, one of the best things to see in France is the beautiful lakes that dot the country. So if you think you’ve seen all that France has to offer, you might want to book another tour as we uncover the best French lakes worth seeing.
Here are the ten most beautiful lakes in France.
10. Saint-Croix du Verdon – one of the bluest lakes in France
If you’re looking for one of the most beautiful lakes in France, you need to stop at the Verdon Gorge, which has some incredible blue water and lakes, including St. Croix du Verdon.
Built in the 1970s, this man-made lake has plenty of sandy beaches for kayaking, sailing, and windsurfing.
Address : Verdon, France
9. Saragu Lake – Gorgeous Color Contrast
This beautiful lake was created when the ancient Sara River was dammed and had a reservoir in place and is used by many people for recreation today.
The stark contrast between the turquoise waters and the red sand attracts many to its shores, especially those who like to sunbathe in the nude.
Address : Salagou, France
8. Seynes Mountain Lake – a turquoise lake in the mountains
This beautiful lake was created when the ancient Sara River was dammed and had a reservoir in place and is used by many people for recreation today.
The stark contrast between the turquoise waters and the red sand attracts many to its shores, especially those who like to sunbathe in the nude.
Address : Salagou, France
8. Seynes Mountain Lake – a turquoise lake in the mountains
Located in the heart of the Vosges Regional National Park, this glorious glacial lake is known for its fun activities including winter skating, hiking, boating and fishing.
The 800,000-year-old lake freezes over every winter and can be seen year-round due to its changing appearance.
Address : Gerardmer, France
6. Gaobu Lake – a beautiful alpine lake
Gob Lake is one of the most majestic lakes, nestled among high mountains perfectly reflected in the water.
The lake is accessible via hiking trails, but you also have the option of taking a chair lift, and there’s a nicely located restaurant for a drink or snack with all the views.
Address : Cauterettes, France
5. Lake Leman – the largest lake in Western Europe
Lake Leman, also known as Lake Geneva, divides Switzerland and France; one of the most famous lakes in Europe.
Here you can enjoy fabulous shopping, spas, boat tours and all the luxury activities on both sides of the lake. Also, notice the many vineyards, castles, and French villas on the French side.
Address : Lake Leman, France
4. Lake Bourget – the deepest lake in France
If you are not afraid of deep water, this is the ideal place for swimming as it is the deepest lake in France.
But whether you fancy a dip or not, you’ll need to stop here to take in the stunning mountain views, plus you can enjoy some spa time at the famous spa resort of Aux-les-Bains.
Address : Lake Bourget, France
3. Lake Allos – the largest high-altitude lake in Europe
If you want to enjoy one of the most secluded lakes without crowds, then this is one to add to your list of beautiful lakes.
The hike here only takes an hour, and once you arrive, you are captivated by a magnificent mountain backdrop. Also, this is the largest natural high-altitude lake in all of Europe , so the water will be colder than expected.
Address : Allos, France
2. Capitello Lake – the reward at the end of the hike
When we talk about the most beautiful lakes in France, we can’t skip the mythical island of Corsica, home to a high-altitude lake, the Lac de Capitello.
One of the best things is that the lake is accessible via hiking trails, so after all your hard work you won’t find many people there and it will be well worth it.
Address : Corsica, France
1. Lake Annecy – the cleanest lake in Europe
This postcard lake is one of the top attractions for French vacationers. Here you will be amazed by the majestic mountains surrounded by coniferous forests in the background.
Above all, you will love the atmosphere of the area and the range of activities such as hiking, biking, water sports and of course boat trips on the cleanest lake in Europe.
Address : Annecy, France
Worth to talk about
Lac de Serre-Poncon: This is one of the largest man-made lakes on the African continent and is ideally located with mountains and rolling hills surrounding it.
Lac de Grand-Lieu: Set within a majestic protected wetland area, this lake is a sight to behold and a birdwatcher’s paradise. One of the most stunning lakes in France.
Lac d’Aiguebelette: This quaint blue-green lake is one of the most beautiful in France, with two islands and several hot springs to enjoy.
Lac d’Enghien: this famous lake is a great place for boating, swimming and sunbathing, especially combined with a visit to the city of Paris, just 15 minutes away by train
Frequently Asked Questions About France’s Most Beautiful Lakes
How many lakes are there in France?
France has around 347 natural and artificial lakes, which is a lot for a country. So many options for your next trip to the lake.
Which is the largest lake in France?
Lake Leman/Lake Geneva on the border with Switzerland is the largest lake in France and offers incredible lake views.
Which lake is Paris?
The Basin de la Villette, the most famous lake in Paris, connects two canals. An artificial lake built in 1808, it is a popular place for Parisians to enjoy their time.
So, that’s it for the top 10 most beautiful lakes in France, but since there are over 300 of them, we can’t say that these are the only stunning lakes in the country; they’re all amazing and scenic.
