As your holidays approach and temperatures become milder, you’re probably wondering where you can swim; if you love nature, tranquility, and cooler temperatures, the Luberon is for you! Located in Provence, this mountain range, classified as a Regional Natural Park, is full of picturesque villages, breathtaking landscapes, and places where you can take a dip!
In this blog post, we offer you a detailed guide to the must-see lakes of the Luberon and how to get there during your stay in this magnificent Provençal region!
Where are the lakes located in the Luberon
If you’re looking for an ideal spot to take a dip during your stay in the Luberon, various lakes scattered throughout the region will allow you to cool off on a hot day, but also to have fun, no matter the season!
The main lakes to visit in the Luberon
Lake Apt
Lake Apt: not far from Apt, the Raille lake serves as a natural swimming pool! This body of water, with its clayey bottom, appears green, but don’t worry: the water is regularly tested for swimming! Two pools have been set up for the enjoyment of all ages, surrounded by wooden beaches and connected by two floating pontoons.
These swimming areas are supervised by a team of lifeguards, and the large pool is 1.40m deep and the small pool is 40 cm deep.
- Activities around the lake: in addition to the lake itself, the new development of the areas around the body of water allows for all kinds of leisure activities, as well as water games, sports facilities, and even a solarium!
- Access and parking: both pools are freely accessible to the public from July 1st to August 31st every day from 1 PM to 7 PM.
- What to do nearby: around the Raille lake, you can enjoy numerous relaxation areas, as well as picnic tables if you’ve brought your own meal, or a snack bar and a restaurant if you prefer to eat authentic local dishes!
Lake Vannades
The Lake Vannades in Manosque is a perfect place to cool off and engage in sports and leisure activities; part of the lake is supervised during high season, and there are even access ramps for people with disabilities.
Activities around the lake: around Lake Vannades, you will find picnic areas, as well as a dining area where you can enjoy local recipes with a panoramic view of the lake; furthermore, the summer season is perfect if you want to practice sports activities, such as paddleboarding, kayaking, rowing, sailing, or even pedal boating.
Access and parking: access to Lake Vannades is by car or on foot, and admission is free, even during the summer period.
- What to do nearby: not far from Lake Vannades, you’ll find a mini-golf course with many courses accessible to all, an original family activity! Also, for lovers of authentic towns, head to Manosque, a picturesque town where you can visit cultural sites, such as the Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde.
The Bonde Lake
Not far from Motte d’Aigues, you can find the Bonde Lake, an ideal place to swim and relax; due to its significant beaches (which may vary depending on drought conditions), you can settle in comfortably, whether with family or friends.
- Activities around the lake: The Bonde Lake is a popular spot for swimmers, but also for fishermen! Areas are set up so you can enjoy this activity. For those who prefer to stretch their legs, it’s possible to walk around the lake in the shade of the trees lining the water, a pleasant stroll accessible to everyone!
- Access and parking: access to the lake is free, except during July and August when it will cost 2 euros to get there. However, note that the lake is supervised during the summer, which is reassuring if you plan to go with children.
- What to do nearby: as mentioned previously, the Bonde Lake is located near Motte d’Aigues, a charming small village south of the Luberon Natural Park. From there, you can admire a magnificent panorama and the Provençal landscapes! There is also an accessible walk that starts from this village and allows for a loop of about 1.5 hours. Finally, for food lovers strolling around the lake, snacks and restaurants are available, perfect if you plan to eat between swims and taste typical regional dishes!
The 7 Lakes in Beaumont de Pertuis
On the edge of the Durance, at the 7 lakes, you can admire migratory birds that come and go with the seasons, not far from water of undeniable quality with rich and varied flora and fauna;
- Activities around the lake: the 7 lakes are ideal for families: you can stroll at your own pace, but also enjoy a picnic on the shore; however, be careful not to swim there, as swimming is prohibited.
- Access and parking: to get to the 7 lakes, you can park nearby for free or in the village of Beaumont de Pertuis.
- What to do nearby: discover Beaumont de Pertuis, the village adjacent to the 7 lakes, whose authentic charm and heritage will transport you to a past filled with nostalgia, with its historic buildings and panoramic views; you can also walk around the village via a marked trail that will allow you to complete a pleasant two-hour loop, accessible to most travelers.
Come visit the lakes of the Luberon!
As you have understood, the Luberon is ideal for swimming with various lakes, each offering a unique experience! Whether you want to swim or even hike in the shade of the trees, this enchanting region will satisfy you!
To optimize your stay in the Luberon massif and make your life easier, we offer you