Top 7 Lakes around Mont-Dore
Best lakes around Mont-Dore are found in the volcanic heart of Auvergne, offering diverse natural features. The region's lakes are often of volcanic origin, including crater lakes and dam lakes. These bodies of water provide various opportunities for outdoor activities and offer views of the surrounding landscapes, such as the Monts Dore and Sancy massif.
Best lakes around Mont-Dore
- The most popular lakes is Lake Guéry, a lake that is an atypical volcanic dam lake created by a basaltic lava flow. It is the highest lake in Auvergne, situated at an altitude of 1,268 meters, and provides impressive views of the Chaîne des Puys and the Sancy massif.
- Another must-see spot is Lake Servières, a crater lake nestled at an altitude of 1,200 meters. It is an ideal place for many walks in an exceptional natural setting and is popular with anglers.
- Visitors also love Lac Chambon Beach, a lake of volcanic origin known for its shallow depth of only four meters. It is ideal for families, offering pleasant swimming, a leisure base for water sports, and well-equipped beaches.
- Mont-Dore is known for volcanic lakes, crater lakes, and dam lakes. The region offers a variety of lakes to see and explore, each with distinct geological formations and surrounding environments.
- The lakes around Mont-Dore are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 330 upvotes and 45 photos shared across various highlights.
Last updated: May 20, 2026
Lac Chambon Beach
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As a good walker, you need an hour to hike around the lake. If you prefer water sports, go directly to the leisure base.
On the beach, taverns, ice cream parlors and restaurants are also open during the high season.
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Lake Pavin
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Due to its volcanic nature and its meromictic character (the surface waters do not mix with the waters of the depths themselves loaded with toxic gas), it has also long been the subject of numerous studies and scientific hypotheses which can sometimes explain the legends.
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Lake Guéry
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Lac Chauvet
Highlight • Lake
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Lake Chambon
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Popular around Mont-Dore
Crossing the volcanoes of Auvergne – Stromboliens, peléens and maars
Hiking to the summits – France's highest points
Cycling the black route loop – Tour du Sancy
Volcanic walk in scenic Auvergne – Sancy loop, long version
Hiking around Mont-Dore
Running Trails around Mont-Dore
Road Cycling Routes around Mont-Dore
Cycling around Mont-Dore
MTB Trails around Mont-Dore
Gravel biking around Mont-Dore
Other adventures around Mont-Dore
Tips from the Community
Surrounded by dense forests and steep cliffs, Lake Pavin is distinguished by its deep blue waters that reflect the surrounding vegetation. This enchanting setting, accessible by a trail, combines perfectly with breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
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There is a rest area at the lake and a small snack bar not far away.
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This atypical body of water is a volcanic dam lake created by a basaltic lava flow. This is the first of a long series that you will encounter on this GR 30. It is particularly impressive for the many views that we have of the Chaîne des Puys and the Sancy.
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Magnificent little lake where François Mitterrand went every year to taste the truffade.
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Lake Pavin is a marvel, yet the name Pavin from which it comes means appalling. Its circular shape leaves no doubt as to its origin: a gigantic volcanic explosion. When we look at its calm waters, it is difficult to imagine how dreadful its creation some 6,900 years ago was. The explosion that formed it was indeed very violent: traces of this maar were found even in the sediments of Lake Geneva in Switzerland.
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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”.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes around Mont-Dore are best for families and swimming?
For families looking to swim and enjoy water sports, Lac Chambon Beach is an excellent choice. This volcanic lake is known for its shallow depth, making swimming pleasant, and it offers a leisure base for various water activities. You'll also find well-equipped beaches with amenities during high season.
Are there any lakes around Mont-Dore where swimming is not allowed?
Yes, swimming is restricted in several lakes to preserve their natural state or for safety reasons. For instance, swimming is not permitted in Lake Pavin due to its unique meromictic nature and depth. Similarly, swimming and canoeing are strictly forbidden at Lake Guéry, and Lac Chauvet is also not suitable for swimming.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see around the lakes of Mont-Dore?
The lakes around Mont-Dore are primarily of volcanic origin, offering diverse natural features. You'll encounter crater lakes like Lake Pavin with its almost perfect circular shape, and volcanic dam lakes such as Lake Guéry, formed by basaltic lava flows. Many are surrounded by dense forests, high-altitude meadows, and offer impressive views of the Chaîne des Puys and the Sancy massif.
Are there good hiking opportunities near the lakes?
Absolutely. The region offers numerous hiking opportunities. For example, you can enjoy an easy hour-long walk around Lake Guéry, or explore the exceptional natural setting around Lake Servières. For more extensive routes, you can find various hiking trails in the wider Mont-Dore area, including options like 'The ridges of Sancy' or 'The waterfalls', which are part of the Hiking around Mont-Dore guide.
Which lake is considered the highest in Auvergne?
Lake Guéry holds the distinction of being the highest lake in Auvergne, situated at an altitude of 1,268 meters. It's a volcanic dam lake offering impressive views of the surrounding mountain ranges.
What activities can I do at <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/1789817" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Lake Pavin</a>?
At Lake Pavin, you can stroll around the lake, go pedal-boating, or try trout fishing. The lake is surrounded by dense forests and steep cliffs, providing stunning reflections and a picturesque setting. However, please note that swimming is not permitted.
Are there any lakes particularly popular with anglers?
Yes, several lakes are popular for fishing. Lake Guéry is a good spot for fishing, particularly for trout, salmon, carp, and roach. Lake Servières is also highly regarded by anglers for its clear waters and natural setting.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Mont-Dore?
The best time to visit the lakes around Mont-Dore generally depends on your preferred activities. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for swimming, water sports, and hiking, with amenities often open during high season. Autumn provides beautiful foliage, while winter can offer unique snowy landscapes, though some activities might be limited due to conditions.
Can I cycle around the lakes in Mont-Dore?
Yes, cycling is an option around some lakes. For example, you can enjoy cycling around Lac Chambon. For more dedicated cycling routes, the region offers various options, including road cycling and gravel biking. You can explore guides like Road Cycling Routes around Mont-Dore or Gravel biking around Mont-Dore for specific tours that may include lake views or circuits.
What makes <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/1126438" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Lake Servières</a> special?
Lake Servières is a beautiful crater lake nestled at 1,200 meters, known for its crystal-clear water and surrounding fir forests. It has been awarded the 'Espace Naturel Sensible' label, highlighting its ecological importance. Many consider it one of the most beautiful lakes in the Auvergne volcanoes, ideal for walks and popular with anglers.
Are there any hidden gem lakes near Mont-Dore?
While not exactly 'hidden,' Lac Chauvet is a lesser-known but equally stunning volcanic lake. Renowned for its perfectly circular shape, it's a classic maar typical of the region. It offers a tranquil setting and is known to host various fish species.
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