Best lakes around Chalaux are situated within the Morvan Regional Natural Park, an area characterized by its forested hills and numerous water bodies. The region's landscape is shaped by rivers like the Cure and Chalaux, which feed into several artificial reservoirs and natural ponds. These lakes serve purposes ranging from flood regulation and electricity generation to providing natural habitats and recreational opportunities. The area offers a mix of engineered structures and secluded natural settings for exploration.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
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Not for regular bikes, only for mountain bikers. Bring wellington boots.
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very impressive lake and beautiful scenery.
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The Crescent Dam was built between 1929 and 1932. A gravity dam, it is 330 meters long and 37 meters high. Its width at the base is 24 meters and at the crest 3.5 meters. It was built on the initiative of SA Compagnie HydroElectrique de la Cure and was owned by the City of Paris until 1946. The dam was built to regulate the waters of the Yonne and Seine rivers and thus prevent flooding in Paris, while also producing electricity. More than 165 hectares of cultivated land, hamlets, mills, and paths were flooded to allow the creation of the reservoir (maximum depth of 40 meters). It occupies four municipalities and two departments, and is fed by the Cure and Chalaux rivers. The structure was partly financed by war reparations owed by Germany to France after the First World War. This is why much of the dam's mechanisms are German-made. The road across it is narrow and only allows passage for one vehicle. Fortunately, there is very little traffic.
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This beautiful pond is surrounded by hiking trails, a children's playground and an arboretum.
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At the edge of the forest is this pretty little pond with alder groves on its plans.
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When you reach this pond, you will be struck by the fact that it is enclosed in the forest, as if the pond is there just for you, hidden away. The pond is often so calm that its surface is like glass.
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At the edge of the forest is this pretty little pond with alder groves on its plans.
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Yes, Étang du Moulin du Bois is a pretty pond with alder groves suitable for family-friendly walks. Étang Chaumail also features a children's playground and is surrounded by hiking trails, making it ideal for families.
The lakes around Chalaux offer various hiking opportunities. You can find trails surrounding Étang Chaumail, which is enclosed in the forest. The larger reservoirs like those created by the Chaumeçon Dam and Crescent Dam also provide scenic routes. For specific hiking routes, explore the Hiking around Chalaux guide.
Yes, the region is known for offering opportunities for circular walks around its diverse aquatic environments. For example, you can find a moderate 14 km loop around the Chaumeçon reservoir. More options are available in the Hiking around Chalaux guide.
The lakes around Chalaux are situated within the Morvan Regional Natural Park, characterized by forested hills. You'll encounter diverse landscapes, from the alder groves at Étang du Moulin du Bois to the islands and forests visible from the Chaumeçon Dam. Étang Chaumail is particularly noted for being hidden away within the forest, offering a calm, glass-like surface.
The area features significant man-made structures like the Crescent Dam, built between 1929 and 1932 to regulate the Yonne and Seine rivers and produce electricity. The Chaumeçon Dam, constructed in the 1930s, also offers impressive views of the lake it created.
Beyond hiking, the area around Chalaux is excellent for cycling. You can explore various routes for both road cycling and touring bicycles. For detailed routes, check out the Road Cycling Routes around Chalaux and Cycling around Chalaux guides.
Yes, Étang Chaumail is described as being enclosed in the forest, giving the impression that it's hidden away just for you, often with a calm, glass-like surface. This offers a more secluded experience compared to the larger reservoirs.
Visitors appreciate the breathtaking scenery and the rolling landscapes, even in winter, as noted at The Shores of the Lake. The tranquility of spots like Étang Chaumail, with its glass-like surface, is also highly valued.
The larger dams, such as the Crescent Dam and Chaumeçon Dam, serve multiple purposes. They were built to regulate the waters of rivers like the Yonne and Seine to prevent flooding, and also to generate electricity. These reservoirs also create significant habitats and recreational opportunities.
While specific cafes are not highlighted directly at the immediate lake shores, the region includes small villages like Lormes, near Étang Chaumail, where you can typically find amenities. It's advisable to check local listings for cafes and restaurants in nearby towns.
Many natural areas in the Morvan Regional Natural Park, including trails around lakes, are generally dog-friendly. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash and respect local regulations, especially around wildlife and other visitors. Trails around Étang Chaumail are popular for walks.
The lakes around Chalaux offer beauty year-round. Spring and summer are ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling, with lush greenery. Autumn brings vibrant fall colors to the surrounding forests. Even in winter, the scenery can be breathtaking, as noted for The Shores of the Lake, offering a different, serene experience.


Still not found your perfect lake around Chalaux? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.