Top 8 Lakes in Bouches-du-Rhône
Best lakes in Bouches-du-Rhône offer diverse natural landscapes, from artificial reservoirs to vast lagoons. The department provides various water bodies for recreation and observation. These locations are characterized by their natural settings and opportunities for outdoor activities. Bouches-du-Rhône's lakes serve as important ecological sites and popular destinations for local exploration.
Best lakes in Bouches-du-Rhône
- The most popular lakes include View of Étang de Berre, a viewpoint offering panoramas of the Étang de Berre. This site provides views of the largest saltwater lake in Europe, popular for windsurfing and kitesurfing.
- Another must-see spot is Réaltor Reservoir, a lake and nature reserve. It is known for its bird life, including coots, grebes, swans, cormorants, and egrets.
- Visitors also love Borély Park, a man-made park with a lake. This location is family-friendly and offers facilities within a natural setting.
- Bouches-du-Rhône is known for artificial reservoirs, saltwater lagoons, and urban lakes. These provide a variety of environments for activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and water sports.
- The lakes in Bouches-du-Rhône are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 50 upvotes and over 10 photos shared across 8 highlights.
Last updated: May 16, 2026
Réaltor Reservoir
Highlight • Lake
The Réaltor basin offers a beautiful diversity in terms of bird life: coots, grebes, swans, cormorants, egrets... and more during migration periods.
Note that the banks on the north-east side (Calas side) are open to the public, but the south-west part (TGV station side), belonging to the Société des Eaux de Marseille, is fenced and inaccessible.
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Borély Park
Highlight • Natural
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Sormiou Beach
Highlight • Beach
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Ensuès-la-Redonne Cove
Highlight • Beach
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View of Marseille Bay from the northwest fort
Highlight • Lake
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View of Étang de Berre
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Towards the aiguille de Sormiou
Highlight • Lake
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Le Candélon
Highlight • Lake
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Tips from the Community
This reservoir was created during the construction of the Marseille canal in the 19th century to supply the city. It is a beautiful nature reserve in the heart of the hills of the Arbois plateau. The site is a very rich ornithological reserve, and you can observe many species such as coots, swans, cormorants and egrets.
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I did part of this route. The views are magnificent and the route very pleasant. Everything is spoiled by the fly-tipping and the shanty town set up near the TGV station. Unacceptable in a departmental park where signs order us not to throw away our papers!
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Too much glass on the road, breathtaking view for sure but dangerous section with risk of puncture on this suburban route, that said getting out of the most chaotic and dirty city in the country, it's still nice even if the shoulders are strewn with rubbish.
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The colors are simply overwhelming. #nofilter
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Magnificent panorama with easy gravel access
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes in Bouches-du-Rhône are best for nature observation and wildlife?
For birdwatching and a rich natural environment, the Réaltor Reservoir is excellent, known for coots, grebes, swans, cormorants, and egrets. The immense Étang du Vaccarès in the Camargue is a vital habitat for migratory birds, especially pink flamingos, offering a truly spectacular natural experience.
Are there family-friendly lakes or areas in Bouches-du-Rhône?
Yes, Borély Park features a man-made lake within a park setting, offering family-friendly facilities. The Plan d'eau de Plantain in Peyrolles is also well-suited for families, providing amenities like parking, a first-aid station, and showers. The Étang de l'Olivier in Istres offers workshops for children and attractions like Dinosaur'Istres and Art Zoo.
What kind of water sports can I do at the lakes in Bouches-du-Rhône?
The Étang de Berre, Europe's largest saltwater lake, is particularly popular for windsurfing and kitesurfing due to its favorable conditions. The Plan d'eau de Plantain in Peyrolles also serves as an excellent nautical base, offering various water activities.
Where can I go hiking or cycling near the lakes in Bouches-du-Rhône?
Many lakes offer surrounding trails. The Lac de Peïroou is a perfect stop during a hike, particularly along the GR6 trail. Cycling around the Étang du Vaccarès is considered a mythical experience. For more structured routes, you can explore various road cycling routes, general cycling tours, and even waterfall hikes in the wider Bouches-du-Rhône region.
Which lakes are good for a peaceful retreat away from crowds?
The Lac de Peïroou near Saint-Rémy-de-Provence is an artificial lake less frequented by tourists, offering a peaceful retreat. Surrounded by cliffs and a shaded pine forest, it's an ideal spot for relaxation and picnics.
Can I swim in the lakes of Bouches-du-Rhône?
While swimming is prohibited at Lac de Peïroou, the Plan d'eau de Plantain in Peyrolles is a nautical base suitable for water activities. For swimming, consider the nearby coastal areas like Sormiou Beach or Ensuès-la-Redonne Cove, which are popular for cooling off after a hike.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes in Bouches-du-Rhône?
The summer months are vibrant, especially around the Étang de l'Olivier in Istres, which hosts lively 'guinguettes,' markets, and entertainment during summer evenings. For birdwatching, migration periods around the Étang du Vaccarès and Réaltor Reservoir can be particularly rewarding.
Are there any urban lakes in the region?
Yes, the Étang de l'Olivier in Istres is a vibrant urban lake spanning 220 hectares. It's known for its impressive water jet and offers a lively atmosphere with various activities and events, especially in the summer.
What unique geological features can be found among the lakes?
The Étang de Berre stands out as Europe's largest saltwater lake, offering a unique ecological environment. The Étang du Vaccarès, with its shallow, salty waters, creates a distinctive 'lake of ice' optical effect, adding to its wild allure.
Where can I find good viewpoints of the lakes?
The View of Étang de Berre offers panoramic vistas of Europe's largest saltwater lake. For stunning coastal views that include water, Towards the aiguille de Sormiou provides breathtaking perspectives of the cove.
Are there facilities available at the lakes?
The Plan d'eau de Plantain in Peyrolles is well-equipped with convenient parking, a first-aid station, sanitary facilities, and showers. The Étang de l'Olivier in Istres also has health trails, boat rentals, and a Mediterranean garden.
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