Lake Saint-Étienne-Cantalès: water activities and relaxation
A Family Day at Lake Saint-Étienne-Cantalès
Looking for a refreshing getaway combining nature and leisure? Discover Lake Saint-Étienne-Cantalès, just fifteen minutes from Aurillac. Between fishing, a variety of water sports, and relaxing on its unspoiled beaches, we invite you to explore the many facets of this site, which attracts vacationers, tourists, and thrill-seekers alike.
Lake Saint-Étienne-Cantalès: A Man-Made Vacation Spot
- Key Features: The largest artificial body of water in the region, created by the Saint-Étienne-Cantalès Dam.
- History: Built between 1939 and 1945 by EDF, inaugurated by General de Gaulle.
- Geographical Details: Located in Cantal, spanning 13 km of the Cère Valley.
Created by the construction of the dam by Électricité de France (EDF) between 1939 and 1945, this body of water stretches across the Cère Valley, affecting several neighboring towns. Inaugurated in 1945, the dam reaches 69 meters high and stretches 270 meters. An impressive detail: it holds back no less than 133,000 thousand cubic meters of water, creating a vast 562-hectare recreational area.
A natural playground in the Châtaigneraie region
The Saint-Étienne-Cantalès lake is a natural playground in the Châtaigneraie region, offering a wide range of aquatic activities. Zander fishing is particularly popular here, and boat rentals are available to explore the lake.
Discover the 5 must-see experiences around this exceptional site:
- Swimming: Enjoy the beaches, which are equipped and supervised in summer. Ideal for a family outing.
- Water activities: From jet skiing to beach volleyball and canoeing, the staff offers boat rentals and suitable equipment. There's something for everyone, from beginners to experts.
- Fishing: Here, vertical fishing for zander attracts enthusiasts. Fishing permits and even some exemptions can be obtained on site.
- Hiking: Take the GRP® Tour de la Châtaigneraie: this trail offers breathtaking views of the landscapes around Saint-Étienne-Cantalès.
- Adventure: Nearby, the Renacland water park entertains children, while Rénac Aventure challenges the more adventurous with its zip lines. A memorable day is in store!
Developed beaches: relaxation and swimming
Several supervised beaches during the summer allow you to combine water sports with relaxation:
- Espinet Beach: A large, safe swimming area with family facilities.
- Rénac Beach: A more unspoiled area but equipped with restrooms and a picnic area.
- Puech Beach: Ideal for relaxing, with its deckchairs, floating terrace, and island accessible via a footbridge.
Relax near Lake Saint-Étienne-Cantalès.
Fifteen minutes from the lake and its business parks, our Hôtel-Logis la Thomasse welcomes you throughout the summer, from June to September.
Contact us at 06 71 48 26 47 or via our website to book your room in a preserved natural setting, close to regional tourist attractions and relaxation areas.
