Lac d'Aydat, Natural volcanic lake in Aydat, France.
Lac d'Aydat is a natural lake formed by volcanic activity, situated at about 837 meters elevation and reaching depths of roughly 15 meters. A small island called Île de Saint-Sidoine sits in the middle of the roughly 65-hectare water body.
The lake formed roughly 8,500 years ago when lava flows from the Puy de la Vache and Puy de Lassolas volcanoes blocked a river, trapping water behind the cooled lava. This volcanic origin tells the geological story of the Auvergne region.
The lake takes its name from Saint Sidonius Apollinaris, a fifth-century bishop and senator who once held property here. This historical connection shapes how local people and visitors understand the place today.
Visitors can swim at a supervised beach area or take advantage of sailing lessons at the on-site water sports school. Fishing is permitted with the proper license during the open season from March through December.
A wooden boardwalk at the mouth of the La Veyre River allows visitors to observe local wildlife and witness the wetland's natural water filtration in action. Many visitors miss this hidden corner, which reveals how the lake's ecology works beyond just swimming and sailing.
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