Lac de Monteynard-Avignonet

Lac de Monteynard-Avignonet is an artificial lake in the Isère department, where turquoise water extends over a length of 20 kilometers. The reservoir reaches a depth of 115 meters in some areas and connects the valleys of the Drac and Ebron rivers.

The reservoir came into being in 1961 following the construction of a 145-meter-high dam by Électricité de France. The facility was intended to provide hydropower for electricity generation in the region.

The recreation center at Treffort has become a gathering point for water sports enthusiasts who come to use the thermal winds. The lake also attracts hikers who walk across the two suspension bridges linking the mountain slopes.

The bay at Treffort provides water access and works well for windsurfing or kitesurfing during windy afternoons. The suspension bridges are open to walkers and link several hiking paths along the shores.

The lake ranks as the second windiest in Europe because temperature differences between the water surface and mountains create strong afternoon winds. These conditions make it especially popular with kitesurfers who travel from across France.

Location: Monteynard

Location: La Motte-Saint-Martin

Location: Marcieu

Location: Mayres-Savel

Location: Saint-Arey

Location: Avignonet

Location: Sinard

Location: Treffort

Location: Roissard

Location: Lavars

Location: Cornillon-en-Trièves

Location: Saint-Jean-d'Hérans

Elevation above the sea: 490 m

Width: 300 m

Operator: EDF

Address: Lac de Monteynard-Avignonet, France

GPS coordinates: 44.96110,5.68840

Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:29