Lac de sainte-croix, Provence Travel Guide

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Discover Lac de Sainte-Croix, a turquoise paradise in Provence offering water sports, stunning scenery, and charming villages to explore.

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Lac de sainte-croix

Lac de Sainte-Croix, one of the largest artificial lakes in France, is a stunning turquoise expanse bordering the Verdon Natural Regional Park. Created in 1973 by the Sainte-Croix dam, it's a haven for water sports and relaxation, surrounded by picturesque villages and breathtaking scenery.

A brief summary to Lac de sainte-croix

Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon, FR

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Lac de sainte-croix.

Visit in the shoulder season (spring or fall) for fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
Rent a canoe or kayak to explore the Verdon Gorge where the river enters the lake.
Pack a picnic and enjoy the beaches at Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon or Les Salles-sur-Verdon.
Take a scenic drive around the lake, stopping at the villages of Bauduen and Aiguines for stunning views.
Book water activities in advance during the summer months to avoid disappointment.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Palais des Papes

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Provence Cross

Troglodyte caves of Villecroze

UNESCO Géoparc de Haute-Provence - Musée Promenade

Explore Lac de sainte-croix on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Lac de sainte-croix, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

From the village of Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon, head towards the lake. Paid parking is available near the beach (€4 during July and August). Arrive early, as parking fills up quickly during peak season. Avoid parking on the roadside to prevent fines.
Public Transport

From Nice or Marseille, take the LER 31 or LER 27 bus, respectively, to a nearby town. The journey costs approximately €13-25. From there, local buses or taxis can take you to the lake. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information.
Walking

From Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, it's approximately a 1 hour and 15-minute walk to the first beaches of the lake. Follow the road towards the Galetas Bridge for stunning views and access to the lake.

Discover more about Lac de sainte-croix

Lac de Sainte-Croix, nestled between the departments of Var and Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, is a true Provençal gem. This artificial lake, formed by the construction of the Sainte-Croix dam on the Verdon River in the early 1970s, has become a beloved destination for both locals and tourists.The lake's history began with an idea from Georges Clemenceau in 1908, but it wasn't until Électricité de France (EDF) implemented the project in 1968. The dam, completed in 1973, created a reservoir holding approximately 760 million cubic meters of water. This led to the relocation of the village of Les Salles-sur-Verdon, which was rebuilt on higher ground.Today, Lac de Sainte-Croix stretches over 2,200 hectares, offering a vast playground for water activities. Swimming, sailing, windsurfing, canoeing, kayaking, and paddle boating are popular choices. Electric boats are also available, ensuring a peaceful and environmentally conscious experience. Several nautical bases around the lake provide equipment rentals and lessons.The lake is surrounded by charming villages, each with its unique character. Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon, perched on a hillside, offers stunning views and a popular beach. Bauduen, a picturesque village leaning against Défens hill, boasts a lovely marina and a toy museum. Les Salles-sur-Verdon, rebuilt after the dam's construction, holds historical significance and offers access to the lake's eastern shores. Aiguines, located north of the lake, provides breathtaking panoramic views.Lac de Sainte-Croix serves not only as a recreational paradise but also as a vital water source and hydroelectric power generator for the region. The dam produces approximately 142 million kWh of electricity annually. The lake's turquoise waters, coupled with the surrounding natural beauty, create an unforgettable landscape, making it a must-see destination in Provence.