Top 20 Lakes around Lens

While Lens itself doesn't have large natural lakes within its urban core, the broader Nord-Pas-de-Calais region (now Hauts-de-France) offers a variety of aquatic environments. You'll find protected natural swamp areas like the Marais de Maroeuil, recreational ponds such as L'île aux Saules, observatories like the Romelaëre Ponds Observatory, and numerous communal ponds primarily used for fishing, including those at Brimeux and Etang de Wingles. The region also features picturesque reservoirs like Lake Tseuzier.

Yes, several lakes in the region are suitable for families. Lac de Géronde is a great option with facilities, a beach, and a pleasant walk around the lake. It also has a refreshment area and a play area. Lake Tseuzier and Lake Grenon are also noted as family-friendly, offering beautiful scenery and opportunities for relaxation.

The Marais de Maroeuil is a protected natural swamp area spanning approximately 20 hectares, managed by the Conservatoire d'espaces naturels des Hauts-de-France. It's an excellent spot for nature lovers and birdwatchers due to its rich and diverse flora and fauna. The Romelaëre Ponds Observatory in Clairmarais, situated within the nature reserve of the Étangs du Romelaëre, also offers panoramic views and is ideal for birdwatching and enjoying serenity.

Swimming is generally restricted in many natural reserves. For example, at Lac de la Brèche, swimming is unfortunately forbidden as it is a nature reserve, though it is permitted at the nearby Lac de la Corne. However, Lac de Géronde offers a very nice outdoor swimming pool with free entry, and you can also swim in the lake itself.

Beyond enjoying the lakes themselves, the region around Lens offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for gravel biking, road cycling, and running. For gravel biking, explore routes like 'Castles of Sion' or 'Lac de Géronde' loops. Road cyclists can enjoy routes such as 'From Crans-Montana to the Summit of Col de Crans Montana'. Runners have options like 'Beach Volleyball Court Valais' or 'Christ the King Statue' loops. You can find more details on these activities and routes in the dedicated komoot guides for gravel biking, road cycling, and running trails around Lens.

Yes, fishing is a popular activity in the region. The Communal Lakes at Brimeux offer excellent fishing opportunities, including night fishing for carp, across 110 hectares of ponds and marshland. Other communal ponds like Etang de Wingles, Etang communal de la Labourse, Etang de Beauséjour, Etang de la Lawe, Etang des Iles, Lac Bleu, Lac du Parc Glissoire, and Plan d'eau de Nesles are also frequently used for fishing. For serious carp anglers, several privately owned lakes further afield near Calais, such as Sky Lake and Beaurepaire, are highly recommended for fishing holidays.

Many lakes offer pleasant walking opportunities. The walk around Lac de Géronde is very enjoyable, providing views of the lake, forest, and surrounding mountains. You can also walk around Lake Tseuzier in about an hour, exploring waterfalls, streams, and forests. L'île aux Saules in Billy-Berclau is another popular destination for walkers and nature enthusiasts.

The lakes in the region offer diverse natural features. Around Lake Tseuzier, you can explore waterfalls, streams, and forests. The Marais de Maroeuil is a protected wetland with rich flora and fauna. Many lakes, like Lac de Géronde, are surrounded by forests and offer scenic viewpoints. The climb to Lac de Tseuzier and Tseuzier Dam provides magnificent views of the Valais Alps and is situated in a mountainous cirque.

Yes, some lakes offer convenient facilities. Lac de Géronde has a refreshment area, a play area, and a swimming pool. At Lake Grenon, you'll find waterfront cafes where you can relax. Near Lac de Tseuzier and Tseuzier Dam, there's a good restaurant and a free drinking water fountain.

The best time to visit depends on your preferred activities. For swimming and enjoying outdoor facilities, the summer months are ideal, especially at places like Lac de Géronde. For walking and nature observation, spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Lakes like L'île aux Saules are open year-round, allowing for walks and picnics in any season. Some lakes, like Lake Grenon, are worth visiting in both summer and winter, with waterfront cafes offering warm drinks in colder months.

Yes, the region features lakes with significant man-made structures. Lake Tseuzier is a picturesque reservoir created by the construction of the Rawyl dam, which is used for power generation and drinking water. Similarly, Lac de Tseuzier and Tseuzier Dam is a notable man-made monument, offering impressive views and an intermediate climb to reach it.

While specific regulations vary by location, many natural areas and walking trails around lakes are generally dog-friendly, especially if dogs are kept on a leash. For instance, areas like L'île aux Saules are popular for walks, which often accommodate dogs. Always check local signage for specific rules regarding pets at each lake or nature reserve you plan to visit.