Top 4 Lakes around Montgreleix
Best lakes around Montgreleix are found in the tranquil Cézallier region, situated at the border of Puy-de-Dôme and Cantal. This area is characterized by diverse landscapes, including wooded valleys and vast open spaces. Montgreleix itself is home to a notable lake and is in proximity to unique volcanic lakes. The region offers a blend of natural beauty and geological interest for visitors.
Best lakes around Montgreleix
- The most popular lakes is Lac Chauvet, a lake renowned for its perfectly circular shape. This lake is a maar, a type of lake formed in a volcanic crater, typical of the region.
- Another must-see spot is La Godivelle, an isolated mountain village. This settlement is home to two lakes of volcanic origin and protected peat bogs.
- Visitors also love Lake Montcineyre, a lake formed when the Puy de Montcineyre blocked a river's course. This large lake has a crescent shape and a significant depth of 20 meters.
- Montgreleix is known for volcanic lakes, natural lakes, and lakes associated with waterfalls. The region offers a variety of lakes to see and explore, each with distinct geological features or surrounding landscapes.
- The lakes around Montgreleix are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 70 upvotes and over 20 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: July 1, 2026
Lac Chauvet
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
La Godivelle
Highlight • Natural
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Lake Montcineyre
Highlight • Lake
Although it was not formed during a volcanic explosion, its depth of 20 meters is significant.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Upper Lake of La Godivelle
Highlight • Lake
Conversely, the lower lake is a lake of glacial origin fed by streams and made up of peat bog.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Entraygues Waterfalls and Lake
Highlight • Waterfall
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Montgreleix.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Too bad that the only refreshment point reported nearby is closed
0
0
Crater lake at 1225m altitude
0
0
La Godivelle is an extremely isolated village. With its large fountain, its church and its sublime landscapes, it is a town where it is good to stop.
0
0
Magnificent little lake where François Mitterrand went every year to taste the truffade.
0
0
The Puy de Montcineyre, at the time of its formation, blocked the course of a river, and formed this large lake in the shape of a crescent. Although it was not formed during a volcanic explosion, its depth of 20 meters is significant.
2
0
In one of my old hiking diaries, I wrote about Lac Chauvet: “At the end of the afternoon, my feet soak in the soft and cool waters of Lac Chauvet. Impressive in its strict circularity, the lake is the culmination of a maar; in other words, the meeting underground of a magma and a water table. As a good soloist, I try to observe the rare movements of the lake which could betray the presence of fish. According to the signs planted near the one and only pontoon of the body of water, trout, carp and even salmon would have taken up residence there”.
1
2
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of lakes can I explore around Montgreleix?
The Montgreleix area is known for its diverse lakes, including unique volcanic lakes like Lac Chauvet, natural lakes, and lakes associated with waterfalls such as the Entraygues Waterfalls and Lake. Each offers distinct geological features or surrounding landscapes.
Are there any family-friendly lakes in the Montgreleix region?
Yes, several lakes are suitable for families. Lac Chauvet, La Godivelle, Lake Montcineyre, and the Entraygues Waterfalls and Lake are all considered family-friendly. Lac des Estives, located directly in Montgreleix, also offers accommodations, a covered swimming pool, and a games room, making it ideal for longer family stays.
Which lake is known for its unique volcanic origin?
Lac Chauvet is particularly renowned for its perfectly circular shape, characteristic of a 'maar,' a type of lake formed in a volcanic crater. This makes it a unique natural phenomenon in the region.
Can I swim in the lakes around Montgreleix?
Swimming is possible in some areas. For instance, the lower waterfall at Entraygues Waterfalls and Lake is a popular spot for swimming in the summer. However, swimming is not permitted in Lake Montcineyre.
What outdoor activities can I do near the lakes?
The region offers various outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking on trails like the 'Tour des Vaches Rouges: Saillant Loop' or 'Saillant Waterfall – View of Le Fayet loop from Montgreleix'. Gravel biking and road cycling are also popular, with routes such as the 'Cézallier Plateau Loop' or 'Lake Montcineyre – Lac Pavin loop'. For more details on routes, visit the hiking guide, gravel biking guide, or road cycling guide for Montgreleix.
Are there any lakes suitable for fishing?
Yes, Lac des Estives is particularly popular for fly fishing, featuring a dedicated fly-fishing reserve. Its clear waters are known for an abundance of fish, including rainbow trout, brown trout, and fountain salmon. Lac Chauvet also reportedly hosts trout, carp, and even salmon.
What is special about the village of La Godivelle?
La Godivelle is an isolated mountain village nestled in the heart of Cézallier. It is home to two lakes of volcanic origin and protected peat bogs, a beautiful Romanesque church, and the largest fountain in the Puy-de-Dôme department. Its typicality and sublime landscapes make it a worthwhile stop.
What geological features can I observe around the lakes?
The region is rich in geological interest. You can observe volcanic formations like the 'maar' at Lac Chauvet, or the crescent-shaped Lake Montcineyre, which was formed when the Puy de Montcineyre blocked a river's course. The area also features diverse landscapes with wooded valleys and vast open spaces.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Montgreleix?
Visitors appreciate the tranquil natural settings, the unique geological features of the volcanic lakes, and the opportunities for outdoor activities. The panoramic views encompassing the Sancy massif and the Cantal mountains are also highly valued, as are the peaceful environments ideal for contemplation and photography.
Is there a lake with significant depth in the area?
Yes, Lake Montcineyre is notable for its significant depth of 20 meters, despite not being formed by a volcanic explosion.
Are there accommodations available near the lakes?
Near Lac des Estives, you can find accommodations including cottages and chalets, which are part of a complex offering a covered swimming pool and a games room.
Most popular routes around Montgreleix
Most popular attractions around Montgreleix
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found your perfect lake around Montgreleix? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
