Lac de Serre-Ponçon

Name: Lac de Serre-Ponçon
Address: Savines-le-Lac, Provence-Alpes-Cote d'Azur, France, Gap, France
Rating: 4.7

4.7

(528 reviews)

Savines-le-Lac, Provence-Alpes-Cote d'Azur, France

Bodies of Water

Attraction

About

Lac de Serre‑Ponçon is a spectacular artificial lake straddling the borders of Hautes‑Alpes and Alpes‑de‑Haute‑Provence in southeastern France. Created between 1955 and 1961 by the Barrage de Serre‑Ponçon, it is the largest reservoir in France, covering 28 km² and offering panoramic views of the surrounding Alps. The lake is a hub for water sports, fishing, and hiking, and features the historic Chapelle Saint‑Michel, which sits on an island formed by the dam’s floodplain. Visitors can explore the nearby trail network, admire the turbine generators, or simply relax on the sandy shores for a day of family‑friendly recreation.

Highlights

Largest Reservoir in France
Barrage de Serre‑Ponçon
Chapelle Saint‑Michel
Scenic Hiking Trails
Water Sports

Must-See Areas

Chapelle Saint‑Michel Island

Barrage de Serre‑Ponçon Dam

Western Shore Viewpoints

Hiking Loops

Good to Know

Good for

Families

Nature Lovers

Water Sports Enthusiasts

History Buffs

Hikers

Best time to visit

Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds for scenic walks, water sports, and photographic opportunities.

At a glance

Typical visit: about 3 hours