Lake of Sainte-Croix

#187 among destinations in France

Nature, Natural attraction, Lake

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Facts and practical information

Nestled in the verdant heart of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region, the Lake of Sainte-Croix is a serene and picturesque destination that beckons visitors with its azure waters and tranquil surroundings. Created in 1973, this man-made reservoir was formed by the damming of the Verdon River, and it has since become the third-largest lake in France, covering an area of 22 square kilometers.

The Lake of Sainte-Croix is not only a haven for nature lovers but also a hotspot for outdoor enthusiasts. Its clear waters are ideal for a variety of activities, including swimming, sailing, and windsurfing. For those who prefer a more leisurely pace, paddle boats and electric boats are available for rent, offering a peaceful way to explore the lake's expansive beauty.

Surrounding the lake are numerous trails, inviting hikers and cyclists to discover the region's lush landscapes and the charming villages that dot the shoreline. The lake is also a gateway to the famous Gorges du Verdon, known as Europe's Grand Canyon, with its dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters offering a stunning backdrop for kayaking and canoeing adventures.

Local name: Lac de Sainte-Croix Area: 8.49 mi²Maximum depth: 305 ftElevation: 1542 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 43°45'58"N, 6°11'4"E

Location

Provence-Alpes-Côte d'AzurFrance

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Day trips

Lake of Sainte-Croix – popular in the area (distance from the attraction)

Nearby attractions include: Riez Cathedral, Porte Eyguière, Aiguines, Baptistère Paléo-chrétien.

5.9 miNW
Church
Riez Cathedral, Riez
151 min walk • Riez Cathedral is a Roman Catholic church located in the town of Riez in the département of Alpes-de-Haute-Provence in south-eastern France. It is a national monument.
5.7 miNW
City gate
Porte Eyguière, Riez
147 min walk • The Ayguières Gate is a gate located in Riez, in the French department of Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, France.
3 miE
Locality
Aiguines
77 min walk • Located in the stunning Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region of France, Aiguines is a charming commune that offers visitors a perfect blend of natural beauty and historical allure. Perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the breathtaking Lac de Sainte-Croix, Aiguines...
5.8 miNW
Memorial
Baptistère Paléo-chrétien, Riez
149 min walk • The Riez Baptistery is an early Christian baptistery located in the French commune of Riez, in the French department of Alpes-de-Haute-Provence in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region.
5.6 miN
43°50'39"N • 6°12'52"E
Manufacture Lallier à Moustiers, Moustiers Sainte Marie
143 min walk • Factory tours, Tours
1.7 miW
Locality
Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon
43 min walk • Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon is a commune in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence department in southeastern France. Prior to 16 September 2005, the commune was known as Sainte-Croix-de-Verdon.
1.4 miNE
Locality
Les Salles-sur-Verdon
35 min walk • Les Salles-sur-Verdon is a commune in the Var department in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region in southeastern France.
2.8 miS
Locality
Bauduen
71 min walk • The crystal-clear waters of Lac de Sainte-Croix provide ample opportunities for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding, making it a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. The surrounding countryside is also ideal for hiking and cycling, with numerous trails that offer...
5.8 miNW
Memorial
War Memorial, Riez
148 min walk • Monuments aux Morts are French war memorials established to commemorate the losses of World War I.
4.2 miSW
Locality
Baudinard-sur-Verdon
108 min walk • Baudinard-sur-Verdon is a commune in the Var department in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region in southeastern France.
4.9 miW
Locality
Montagnac-Montpezat
125 min walk • One of the main attractions in Montagnac-Montpezat is the Verdon Gorge, a magnificent canyon that is often referred to as the "Grand Canyon of Europe." Visitors can explore this natural wonder through various outdoor activities such as hiking, rock climbing,...