Top 6 Lakes around Saint-Paul-En-Forêt
Best lakes around Saint-Paul-En-Forêt offer diverse natural environments for outdoor activities. This region, situated in the Var department, features a landscape characterized by forests and hilly terrain. It provides opportunities for exploring Mediterranean flora and engaging in various water-related pursuits. The area is known for its tranquil settings and accessible natural attractions.
Best lakes around Saint-Paul-En-Forêt
- The most popular lakes is Saint-Cassien Lake Road, a trail that passes through the dam lake of Saint-Cassien. This route is known for its scenic views and well-maintained roads, offering a pleasant experience for cyclists.
- Another must-see spot is Lac de Méaulx, a lake that features a long reservoir. Visitors can expect a rolling track with terrain movements, suitable for walks without significant technical difficulties.
- Visitors also love Pont de Pré Claou, Lac de Saint-Cassien, a lake with a bridge. This location offers views of Lac de Saint-Cassien and includes amenities like a small restaurant.
- Saint-Paul-En-Forêt is known for its dam lakes and natural lakes. The region offers a variety of water bodies to explore, from large reservoirs to smaller, family-friendly spots.
- The lakes around Saint-Paul-En-Forêt are appreciated by the komoot community, with 74 upvotes and 8 photos shared across various highlights.
Last updated: July 8, 2026
Saint-Cassien Lake Road
Highlight • Trail
This road has a third name: the road of the perched villages of the east of the Var. You will see in addition to beautiful views of the sea at the end of the route, many villages on their promontories.
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Lake Avellan
Highlight (Segment) • Lake
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Pont de Pré Claou, Lac de Saint-Cassien
Highlight • Lake
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Lac de Méaulx
Highlight (Segment) • Lake
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St. Cassien – Lakeside Dirt Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
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Tips from the Community
Site with superb views and great climbs👍
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Main road can have a lot of truck traffic.
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a pretty spot. unfortunately, the lake shrinks a little more every year, just look at the distance between the pontoon made to allow people with reduced mobility to fish, and the water... . ideally, walks in the Esterel are easy, at the beginning of spring. it's green, and there are many "streams" along the walks... in July this year (2025) the massif was closed to access most of the time, because of the risk of fire.
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Dirt track, a little hilly, very busy, good for walking (gravel, VTC, mountain bike). Possibility of continuing north then west on the same type of track.
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Very nice quiet mountain road
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Wide and very smooth trails all around the (pretty) lake Ideal for an outing with children
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Small restaurant with magnificent view and afternoon dancing on Sundays
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Nice and sunny place. Perfect for a break if needed
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of lakes can I explore around Saint-Paul-En-Forêt?
The region offers a mix of dam lakes and natural lakes. You'll find large reservoirs like Lac de Saint-Cassien, as well as smaller, more tranquil spots such as Lac de Méaulx.
Are there family-friendly lakes in the area?
Yes, several lakes are suitable for families. Lake Avellan and Pont de Pré Claou, Lac de Saint-Cassien are both categorized as family-friendly. Lac du Rioutard also offers an easy botanical trail perfect for family walks.
What activities can I do at Lac du Rioutard?
Lac du Rioutard is ideal for fishing, with tench, carp, and perch available. While swimming is prohibited, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll along its botanical path, which showcases around thirty different Mediterranean plant species. It's a great spot for relaxation in a wild, natural setting.
Are there cycling routes around the lakes?
Absolutely. The Saint-Cassien Lake Road is a popular route known for its scenic views and well-maintained roads, perfect for cyclists. For gravel biking, you can explore routes like the 'Ascent on uneven paths – Lake Saint-Cassien Trail loop' which offers a good surface along the lake. You can find more cycling options in the Cycling around Saint-Paul-En-Forêt guide.
Where can I find a restaurant or cafe near the lakes?
Near Lac de Saint-Cassien, Pont de Pré Claou features a small restaurant with magnificent views, sometimes offering afternoon dancing on Sundays.
What kind of terrain can I expect on trails around Lac de Saint-Cassien?
Trails around Lac de Saint-Cassien, such as the Lac de Saint-Cassien gravel section, often feature wide, stony, and dusty paths. They are generally pleasant to walk or cycle, with some sections offering shade. Expect rolling tracks with terrain movements, but typically without significant technical difficulties.
What natural features are notable around the lakes?
Beyond the lakes themselves, you'll find diverse Mediterranean flora. Lac du Rioutard, for instance, has a botanical path featuring umbrella pines, maritime pines, cork oaks, and holm oaks. The Saint-Cassien Lake Road is also part of the 'mimosa route,' known for its golden yellow winter flowers.
Are there opportunities for hiking or walking near the lakes?
Yes, there are various walking opportunities. The botanical trail around Lac du Rioutard is an easy, family-friendly walk. Lac de Méaulx offers a nice rolling track suitable for walks without significant technical difficulties. For more challenging options, consider routes like the 'Lake Saint-Cassien Trail – View of Callian loop' found in the Gravel biking around Saint-Paul-En-Forêt guide, which can also be walked.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around Saint-Paul-En-Forêt?
Spring is often recommended, especially for walks in the Esterel massif near Lake Avellan, when the landscape is green and streams are flowing. The 'mimosa route' around Lac de Saint-Cassien is particularly beautiful in winter when these trees are in bloom. Summer can be very warm, and fire risks might occasionally close access to certain areas.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes in this region?
Visitors appreciate the tranquil and wild atmosphere, making them excellent places for relaxation and outdoor activities like fishing or leisurely strolls. The scenic views, well-maintained roads for cycling, and the opportunity to discover local flora are also highly valued.
Can I go fishing in the lakes?
Yes, fishing is a popular activity. Lac du Rioutard is known for its tench, carp, and perch, with spots suitable for itinerant lure fishing and coarse fishing. Specific regulations may apply, so it's advisable to check local requirements.
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