Lac de Saint-Étienne-Cantalès, Artificial reservoir in Saint-Étienne-Cantalès, France.
Lac de Saint-Étienne-Cantalès is an artificial reservoir covering roughly 560 hectares across several communes in Cantal, created by damming the old Cère valley. The water stretches about 13 kilometers, with a distinctive arch dam rising prominently above the surface.
Construction of the arch dam was completed in 1945, reaching about 69 meters high and fundamentally reshaping the regional landscape. The structure powers a hydroelectric station that continues to supply energy to the area.
Fishing has long connected people to this lake, with locals and visitors casting lines for carp, pike, and bass throughout the year. The sight of anglers along the shore reflects how much this water means to the surrounding communities.
Three supervised swimming areas operate during summer at Puech des Ouilhes, Rénac, and Espinet, each with parking and easy water access. Several boat launch sites are spread around the perimeter for those wanting to venture onto the water.
A 124-meter footbridge built in Himalayan style spans the water between the beaches of Espinet and Rénac. This striking bridge offers visitors a memorable way to cross between the two swimming areas and scenic lake views from above.
Location: Saint-Étienne-Cantalès
Location: Saint-Gérons
Location: Omps
Location: Lacapelle-Viescamp
Location: Saint-Mamet-la-Salvetat
Location: Le Rouget-Pers
Address: Lac de Saint-Étienne-Cantalès, France
GPS coordinates: 44.92000,2.25000
Latest update: December 6, 2025 17:41
The Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes area has lakes from very different beginnings. Large lakes that formed from glaciers, like Lake Bourget or Lake Annecy, appeared after the glaciers in the Alps melted. They have deep water surrounded by mountains. In the Massif Central, volcanic lakes sit in old craters,...
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