Lac du Bouchet, Nature reserve in Haute-Loire, France
The circular crater lake measures over half a mile across, reaching depths of 28 meters and covering 44 hectares at 1,208 meters elevation.
Following a volcanic explosion 8,000 years ago, a crater formed in the Devès massif and gradually filled with water, creating this geological formation.
The lake functions as a central gathering point where locals and visitors participate in swimming, fishing, hiking, and water sports throughout the year.
Visitors can access the lake from Monday through Sunday between 9:00 and 18:00, with supervised swimming areas available during summer months.
The lake maintains separate fishing seasons, with public access from January to August and a dedicated period for sport fishing from September to December.
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