Lac de Sainte-Croix: A Turquoise Jewel in Provence
Discover Lac de Sainte-Croix, a turquoise paradise in Provence offering water sports, stunning scenery, and charming villages to explore.
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
Local tips
- 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.
Getting There
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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.
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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.
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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
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Gorges du verdon
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Balcon de la Mescla
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Corniche sublime
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Belvédère de la Carelle
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Point Sublime
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Troglodyte caves of Villecroze
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verdon gorge france
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Village Médieval des Arcs
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Office de Tourisme Les Arcs sur Argens
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the Arcs town hall
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Chateau Saint Pierre
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Unmissable attractions to see
Pont de Sainte-Croix
2.6 km
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Grotte des Gorges du Verdon
3.0 km
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Gorges de Baudinard
3.3 km
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Lake of Sainte-Croix
3.4 km
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Champs de lavande
4.2 km
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Lac De Montpezat
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CN 1958-2022
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Lavender field
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Berges lac d'Artignosc
6.4 km
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Aire de décollage du Puit
8.3 km
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Plage du Galetas
8.6 km
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Point de vue Lac de Ste Croix
8.7 km
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Le point de vue
8.9 km
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Pont du Galetas
9.2 km
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Point de vue
9.3 km
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Essential places to dine
Le Rhumarin
0.1 km
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Auberge du castellas
0.9 km
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Chez Nous
4.9 km
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Restaurant Le Côté Lac
4.9 km
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L'Escapade
5.0 km
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La Plancha Cuisine Au Feu De Bois
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Restaurant l'Orangeraie
5.6 km
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Le Rive Gauche
7.6 km
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Brasserie l'antidote
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Le vieux château
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Chez Danté
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Restaurant de l'Aigle - Verdon
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La Guinguette du Lac
8.5 km
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Brasserie du petit lac
9.0 km
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Ferme Sainte-Cécile
10.1 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Galerie Artisanale
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Cera Nomik Poterie
7.6 km
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Zeimet Sabrina Rose
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L'Épice Rit Aiguines
7.6 km
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Gassies Baudoin
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Autour de la Table
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l epicerie du verdon
8.5 km
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Snack de l'étoile
9.1 km
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La Chaîne
11.2 km
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Plaisir D'Offrir
11.3 km
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L'épicerie du coin
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Chez Moe's
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Brasserie Sainte Croix
3.6 km
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Au Cabanon
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Costebelle
5.0 km
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Le Mouton Noir
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Le Bistrot des Apiculteurs Brasseurs
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La cave des moines
11.3 km
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Hotel Le Provence - Restaurant Le Styx
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Snack Bar Le Piccolo
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Bar l'Etape
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Idéal Bar
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Chez Augustine
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Sirocco
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Céleste
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