Lac Pavin

Lac Pavin forms a circular basin with a diameter of 800 meters and reaches a depth of 92 meters at an elevation of 1197 meters.

The lake emerged from a phreatomagmatic eruption 6900 years ago, making it the most recent volcanic formation on mainland France.

Local folklore suggests the lake's name derives from 'Lac Pavent' in Occitan language, referring to the Latin word 'pavens' meaning terror-inducing.

The lake provides opportunities for scientific research through a dedicated sampling platform that enables studies of water chemistry and microbial life.

The waters separate into two distinct layers, with the lower section containing high concentrations of dissolved gases and rare bacterial species.

Location: Besse-et-Saint-Anastaise

Elevation above the sea: 1,197 m

GPS coordinates: 45.49569,2.88790

Latest update: June 23, 2025 09:37