Best lakes around Chassenon and its surrounding region feature several lakes, including the Lac de Chassenon leisure area and the Lakes of Upper Charente. These bodies of water offer diverse natural settings, from developed leisure zones to tranquil, wooded environments. The area is characterized by its water reservoirs and natural features, providing opportunities for various outdoor activities.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
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Rest area, picnic table, it’s the corner for fishermen and relaxation.
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Footbridge which allows you to cross the Charente, which swells the waters of the beautiful Lavaud Gelade lake. It is one of the largest lakes in the Creuse, after Lake Vassivière. Wilder than the latter, it is located in the heart of the Millevaches Regional Natural Park and is classified as a Natura 2000 area.
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A crossing of the Charente which brings you very close to the edge of the water for beautiful views.
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Lac de Lavaud is actually an artificial lake created by man using a dam. Although swimming is often prohibited there, the lake is a beautiful natural feature to explore.
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You can't miss it on the course, only one regret, didn't take the time to see if it could be visited on the other side. Surprised by its state of conservation. To discover and see if visible two faces.
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The little (or big) brother of Lac de Lavaud. The communes of Massignac and Lésignac are watching over him!
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A magnificent artificial lake, recent since it dates from 1989 .. A place to discover!
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The lakes offer a wide range of activities. At the Lac de Chassenon leisure area, you can find swimming, pedal-boat and paddleboard hire, and fishing. The site also has water slides, an inflatable structure, and games for children. For a more natural setting, the Lakes of Upper Charente, including Lac de Lavaud and Lac de Mas Chaban, are ideal for sailing, canoeing, catamaranning, windsurfing, optimist sailing, and fishing.
Yes, several lakes are very family-friendly. The Lac de Chassenon leisure area is specifically designed for families, offering a fine sand beach, paddling pool, water slides, and children's games. Lac de Lavaud and Lac de Mas Chaban also offer pleasant beaches and a peaceful environment suitable for families.
You can find various walking and hiking trails around the lakes. For instance, there's a nice walking trail along Lac de Boischeau. The wider region around Chassenon also offers several hiking routes, such as the 'Stork Circuit Trail' or the 'Ancient baths of Chassenon loop'. You can explore more options in the Hiking around Chassenon guide.
The lakes are set in beautiful natural environments. The Lakes of Upper Charente, particularly Lac de Lavaud and Lac de Mas Chaban, are known for their wooded and unspoiled surroundings. These areas attract numerous bird species, including herons, common greenshanks, great crested grebes, and common coots. The Lavaud Gelade Lake Footbridge is located within a Natura 2000 area, highlighting its ecological importance.
Yes, there are several notable spots. The D160 bridge spanning Lac de Lavaud is considered a beautiful viewpoint. The Lavaud Gelade Lake Footbridge offers close-up views of the Charente River as it feeds the lake. Additionally, Lac de Mas Chaban provides a calm, green setting with gentle hills.
The best time to visit depends on your preferred activities. For swimming and water sports, the summer months, typically from late June to late August, are ideal as supervised swimming is available at places like Lac de Chassenon. For hiking and enjoying the natural scenery, spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful landscapes.
Absolutely. The region around Chassenon is well-suited for cycling. You can find various routes, such as the 'La Vienne River – Lac de Lavaud loop' or the 'Étang de la Chauffie loop'. For more detailed information and routes, refer to the Cycling around Chassenon guide and the Road Cycling Routes around Chassenon guide.
The Lac de Chassenon leisure area is well-equipped with a bar, snack area, terrace, and a shaded picnic area. It also focuses on environmental integration with compost bins and sorting areas. For other lakes, you might find rest areas and picnic tables, such as at Lac de Boischeau.
Yes, supervised swimming is available at the Lac de Chassenon leisure area during its open seasons, which typically run from late June to late August. Lac de Lavaud also features two fine-sand beaches for swimming and relaxation.
The Lac de Chassenon leisure area is specifically designed to be accessible for people with reduced mobility, offering equipment like 'tiralo' to facilitate access to the water.
Visitors appreciate the diverse offerings of the lakes. Many enjoy the calm and green setting of places like Lac de Mas Chaban, finding it a peaceful escape. The numerous rest areas and beaches at Lac de Lavaud are also a highlight, allowing for relaxation amidst rolling meadows. The environmental focus and family-friendly facilities at Lac de Chassenon are also highly valued.


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