Lac de Sainte-Croix France
A breathtaking man-made lake in Provence, France, famous for its intense turquoise waters and as the gateway to the Gorges du Verdon.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Lac de Sainte-Croix France
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking man-made lake in Provence, France, famous for its intense turquoise waters and as the gateway to the Gorges du Verdon.
"One of the most beautiful lakes in the world. I've never seen such intense turquoise water before."
🥾 Water Shoes are a Must
The lakebed is stony; wear water shoes for comfort and safety when swimming and walking.
🚤 Rent a Boat for Exploration
Electric boats or kayaks offer the best way to explore the lake and its gorges. Book ahead!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Turquoise Waters of Lac de Sainte-Croix
The entire lake
Experience the breathtaking, intense turquoise hue of the water, a truly unforgettable sight.
Gorges du Verdon Entrance
Northern end of the lake
Explore the dramatic cliffs and stunning scenery where the lake meets the Gorges du Verdon.
Submerged Forest
Various locations around the lake
Discover the eerie beauty of the submerged forest, especially visible in certain areas.
Baudinard Gorges
Eastern side of the lake
Venture into these wilder, less-frequented gorges ideal for kayaking and photography.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Turquoise Bliss
Essential Gear for Stone Beaches
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Water Shoes are a Must
The lakebed is stony; wear water shoes for comfort and safety when swimming and walking.
🚤 Rent a Boat for Exploration
Electric boats or kayaks offer the best way to explore the lake and its gorges. Book ahead!
📸 Capture the Sunset
The sunsets over the lake are spectacular, especially from the water.
🗺️ Explore Beyond the Main Lake
Discover hidden gems like the Baudinard Gorges for a wilder experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Water Shoes are a Must
The lakebed is stony; wear water shoes for comfort and safety when swimming and walking.
🚤 Rent a Boat for Exploration
Electric boats or kayaks offer the best way to explore the lake and its gorges. Book ahead!
📸 Capture the Sunset
The sunsets over the lake are spectacular, especially from the water.
🗺️ Explore Beyond the Main Lake
Discover hidden gems like the Baudinard Gorges for a wilder experience.
💧 Pack Light for Hiking
If hiking, bring essentials like water and snacks, as services can be limited.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the intensely turquoise waters and stunning natural beauty of Lac de Sainte-Croix, often calling it one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. The opportunity for water activities like boating and kayaking, along with the dramatic scenery of the Gorges du Verdon, are major highlights. Some find the stony beaches a bit challenging, and weather can impact planned activities, but the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive and memorable.
"We arrived on a really rainy day, but the landlord was super kind.
The room was clean, the view was great, and the decorations were lovely—you could tell they have excellent taste. Plus, the view during breakfast was amazing!"
M
"Great lake to have fun. You can rent peddle boats, motor boats and all kinds of other water equipment. The water is nice and clear. The "beach" is full of stones so it is advisable to have decent flipflops, especially coming out of the water is a bit tricky."
John
"One of the most beautiful lakes in the world. I've never seen such intense turquoise water before. I recommend visiting this place after peak season"
Bastelino
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way to reach Lac de Sainte-Croix from Marseille is by car, taking approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Public transport options are limited and time-consuming. Consider renting a car for flexibility to explore the surrounding areas and gorges.
While challenging, it's possible to reach nearby towns like Moustiers-Sainte-Marie by bus from larger cities, but exploring the lake and its surroundings will be difficult without a car. Renting a car is highly recommended for the best experience.
Villages like Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon, Les Salles-sur-Verdon, and Bauduen offer convenient access to the lake and hiking trails. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is also a popular charming base.
Lac de Sainte-Croix is about a 2.5 to 3-hour drive from Nice, making it a feasible day trip or a stop on a longer road trip through Provence.
Yes, parking is available in the villages surrounding the lake and at various access points. Some areas, like the start of the Sentier du Garde Canal, offer free parking.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entrance fee to access Lac de Sainte-Croix itself. However, you will need to pay for activities like boat rentals, parking in certain areas, and any accommodations or dining.
Boat rental operating hours vary by rental company and season, but generally run from morning until late afternoon, especially during peak season. It's best to check with specific rental providers in advance.
Booking boat rentals in advance is highly recommended, especially during the summer months and on weekends, to ensure availability.
While the lake is generally accessible, certain areas within the Gorges du Verdon might have specific access rules or be best explored with guided tours. Always check local advisories.
Yes, swimming is permitted in designated areas of Lac de Sainte-Croix. The water is known for its clear, turquoise color.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Popular activities include swimming, sunbathing on the stony beaches, renting electric boats or kayaks to explore the lake and gorges, paddleboarding, and hiking in the surrounding areas.
You can rent various types of boats, including electric boats, pedal boats, kayaks, and paddleboards. Some operators may also offer guided tours.
No, the beaches at Lac de Sainte-Croix are primarily stony. It's advisable to wear water shoes or sturdy flip-flops for comfort.
Yes, there are numerous hiking trails offering stunning views of the lake and the Gorges du Verdon. Popular options include the Sentier du Garde Canal and hikes around the Baudinard Gorges.
The submerged forest is a unique natural phenomenon where trees are partially or fully underwater, creating a surreal landscape. It's best seen from a boat or kayak in specific areas.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The villages surrounding the lake, such as Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon and Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, offer a range of restaurants and cafes serving local Provençal cuisine. You can find everything from casual eateries to more formal dining.
Yes, picnicking is a popular option. Many scenic spots around the lake are perfect for enjoying a meal with a view. Remember to pack out all your trash.
Small supermarkets can be found in the main villages around the lake, where you can purchase picnic supplies or groceries if you have self-catering accommodation.
Enjoy Provençal specialties like tapenade, ratatouille, and local goat cheese. Don't forget to try the regional wines.
While traditional Provençal cuisine can be meat-heavy, many restaurants are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan options. It's always a good idea to inquire about these when ordering.
📸 📸 Photography
Iconic photo spots include viewpoints overlooking the turquoise water, the entrance to the Gorges du Verdon, the submerged forest, and panoramic views from hiking trails. Sunset also offers magical light.
Even on a rainy day, the lake's dramatic scenery can be captivating. The moody atmosphere can create unique photographic opportunities, though water activities might be limited.
Drone usage may be subject to regulations. It's essential to check local drone laws and obtain any necessary permits before flying. Some videos show drone footage of the gorges.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting. Midday can be harsh, but the vibrant turquoise water is impressive at any time.
Viewpoints along the D957 road offer stunning vistas. The area near the dam and the entrance to the Gorges du Verdon are particularly photogenic.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The stony beaches might require some supervision for very young children, so water shoes are essential for everyone's comfort. Consider packing plenty of snacks and drinks, as amenities can be spread out. Many villages offer ice cream shops and casual dining options. The submerged forest can also be a fascinating sight for curious young minds.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (May-June, September) when accommodation prices are lower and crowds are smaller. While boat rentals can be an expense, sharing the cost among a group can make it more manageable. Look for free parking areas and explore hiking trails that don't require paid access.
💑 Couples & Romantic Getaways
The charming villages surrounding the lake, like Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, provide a picturesque backdrop for romantic strolls and intimate dinners. Consider staying in a boutique hotel or a charming gîte in one of the villages for a more intimate experience. Hiking to a scenic viewpoint for a shared moment of awe is also a wonderful romantic activity. The serene atmosphere makes it an ideal destination for couples seeking relaxation and natural beauty.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Gorges du Verdon by Water
As you venture deeper into the gorges, the towering limestone cliffs rise dramatically on either side, creating a sense of awe. The water's intense turquoise color is even more pronounced within the shaded canyons. Many visitors recommend paddling or boating up to the Point Sublime, a famous viewpoint within the gorges, offering breathtaking panoramas. Remember to pack water and snacks, as services are non-existent once you're inside the gorges.
For those seeking a more challenging adventure, consider guided canyoning tours or rafting trips that operate in other sections of the Verdon. However, for a direct experience from the lake, boat and kayak rentals are the primary and most accessible options for immersing yourself in the grandeur of the Gorges du Verdon.
The Unique Submerged Forest
Popular spots to witness the submerged forest include the shores around Plage de l'Amour in Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon, the areas surrounding Île Costebelle near Les Salles-sur-Verdon, and along the shores accessible from Bauduen. The clarity of the water often allows you to see the tree trunks and branches clearly, creating an almost ethereal underwater landscape.
Visiting this unique feature is best done during calmer periods when the water is still. It's a photographer's dream and a testament to the natural beauty that can be found even in man-made landscapes. The submerged forest adds an element of mystery and wonder to the already stunning Lac de Sainte-Croix experience.
Hiking Trails with Panoramic Views
Another popular route is the hike to Col de Plein Voir, which starts from the road between Castellane and Moustiers-Sainte-Marie. This trail offers stunning vistas and is often mentioned by hikers looking for scenic overlooks. Many of these trails are well-documented on hiking apps, making them accessible for various fitness levels.
For those who prefer less strenuous walks, exploring the paths around the villages like Bauduen or Les Salles-sur-Verdon can still offer beautiful lake views. Always be prepared with water, appropriate footwear, and check weather conditions before setting out on any hike.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit