Top 10 Lakes in Normandie-Maine
Best lakes in Normandie-Maine are found within the Normandie-Maine Regional Natural Park, an area spanning parts of Normandy and Pays de la Loire. This region is characterized by its diverse natural landscapes, including forests and various bodies of water. The park's lakes serve as important natural environments and offer numerous recreational opportunities.
Best lakes in Normandie-Maine
- The most popular lakes is Bagnoles-de-l'Orne Lake, Normandy, a lake that is a central feature of Bagnoles-de-l'Orne, the only spa resort in Northwest France. It provides a scenic backdrop for the town's thermal tourism.
- Another must-see spot is The Grand Pond of Sillé, a lake located in the heart of the green forest of the same name. Visitors can swim here, and the site is popular with residents, offering campsites and dining options.
- Visitors also love Plan d'Eau de la Ferté-Macé, an artificial lake surrounded by a natural park. It offers a variety of activities, including water sports like sailing, pedal boating, and stand-up paddleboarding.
- Normandie-Maine is known for its leisure lakes, natural environments, and fishing lakes. The region offers a variety of lakes to see and explore, catering to different interests.
- The lakes in Normandie-Maine are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 150 upvotes and 28 photos shared across the highlights.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
Bagnoles-de-l'Orne Lake, Normandy
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The Grand Pond of Sillé
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On its banks you will find campsites, dining options as well as the Maison du Lac et de la Forêt.
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Plan d'Eau de la Ferté-Macé
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Étang de La Pisse
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Grand Étang de Sillé-le-Guillaume
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Family walk, quiet, shaded
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Popular around Normandie-Maine
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Tips from the Community
Cycling on the path along the lake is allowed.
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Magnificent, a must-see.
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Lake Sillé is located in the heart of the green forest of the same name, in the Normandy-Maine Regional Natural Park. It is possible to swim there and the site is very popular with residents of the surrounding villages. On its banks you will find campsites, dining options as well as the Maison du Lac et de la Forêt.
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The Ferté-Macé lake is an artificial lake, surrounded by a natural park, which offers a variety of activities for all ages and tastes. You can enjoy water sports, such as sailing, pedal boating, kayaking or stand up paddle boarding, or explore the trails around the lake by bike. And if you're hungry, you can picnic on the grass or head to the on-site restaurant. The Ferté-Macé lake is an ideal place to have fun and enjoy nature in all seasons.
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Lots of bike circuits to do, the countryside is very beautiful, the roads are worth the detour.
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It is not an exceptional spot because on a shared road but the walk in the forest, the discovery of the chapel of Lignou, the castle of Couternes and the town of Bagnoles-de-l'Orne are more than enough to have a good time.
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On the outskirts of the community campsite is right on the dammed up piss, which forms a lake here. A pretty spot to rest. There is boat hire, tourist information can be found here and refreshments and snacks are on offer.
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Beautiful spa town with interesting architecture in the middle of the Normandy Natural Park. A pleasant option for an overnight stay if you are traveling as a bike packer!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes in Normandie-Maine are best for families?
Several lakes in the Normandie-Maine Regional Natural Park are ideal for families. The Grand Pond of Sillé offers swimming, campsites, and dining options. Plan d'Eau de la Ferté-Macé provides a variety of activities like pedal boating and stand-up paddleboarding, along with a natural park. Mêle-sur-Sarthe Lake also features supervised swimming in summer and picnic areas.
What kind of water activities are available at the lakes?
You can enjoy a wide range of water activities. At Plan d'Eau de la Ferté-Macé, you can go sailing, pedal boating, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding. Étang de la Rincerie also offers swimming, sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Mêle-sur-Sarthe Lake provides supervised swimming during the summer months.
Are there good fishing spots in the Normandie-Maine lakes?
Yes, the region is known for its fishing lakes. Lac de Haute Mayenne is particularly renowned for its diverse fish population, including pike-perch, pike, perch, and carp. For dedicated anglers, Periwinkle Lake and Lac La Chaussee are private fisheries well-stocked with specimen carp.
Where can I find tranquil natural environments for walks and picnics?
Étang du Gué de Selle offers a serene environment surrounded by trees, perfect for peaceful walks and picnics. Lac de Haute Mayenne is also a protected natural environment popular with hikers and nature lovers, featuring rich flora and fauna like kingfishers and yellow irises.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see around the lakes?
The lakes are rich in wildlife. Lac de Haute Mayenne is home to diverse fish species and birds like kingfishers. Étang du Gué de Selle is an important migratory stopover for birds, where you can observe nationally protected species. Étang de la Rincerie is part of a protected ornithological reserve, making it excellent for birdwatching.
Are there hiking opportunities near the lakes in Normandie-Maine?
Yes, the region offers various hiking trails. You can find easy hikes like the Grand Étang Loop Trail or the St-Généri-le-Gérei loop within the Easy hikes in Normandie-Maine guide. For more challenging routes, consider the Waterfall hikes in Normandie-Maine guide, which includes trails near Mortain.
Can I go cycling around the lakes?
Absolutely. The region provides several cycling routes. For example, the Cycling in Normandie-Maine guide features routes like 'L'Orne à Vélo and La Vélo Bocage Loop' and 'Tour de Bonvouloir par le lit de la Gione' which pass through scenic lake areas.
Which lake is associated with a spa resort?
Bagnoles-de-l'Orne Lake, Normandy is a central feature of Bagnoles-de-l'Orne, the only spa resort in Northwest France. It provides a tranquil and scenic backdrop for the town's thermal tourism.
What facilities are available at the lakes?
Many lakes offer convenient facilities. The Grand Pond of Sillé has campsites and dining options. Étang de La Pisse offers boat hire, tourist information, and refreshments. Lac de Haute Mayenne provides playgrounds, mini-golf, and a leisure center.
What is the best time to visit the lakes in Normandie-Maine?
The summer months are popular, especially for activities like supervised swimming at Lac de La Ferté-Macé and Mêle-sur-Sarthe Lake. However, the natural beauty and outdoor activities can be enjoyed throughout the warmer seasons, with autumn offering picturesque views as well.
Are there any lakes with sandy beaches?
Yes, Lac de La Ferté-Macé (also known as Plan d'Eau de la Ferté-Macé) boasts a sandy, tree-shaded beach with supervised swimming during the summer. Mêle-sur-Sarthe Lake also offers a beach area with supervised swimming in summer.
Where can I find stunning scenic views of the lakes?
Rabodanges Lake, located in the picturesque 'Norman Switzerland,' is set amidst stunning rugged landscapes, offering beautiful natural settings and scenic views. Étang de la Rincerie also provides picturesque views of the water and surrounding forest.
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