Leisure Lakes

Located 45 miles north-east of Argentat-sur-Dordogne and encircled by gorgeous hills and woodlands, Bort-les-Orgues Reservoir is hemmed in by some of the highest peaks in the Dordogne Valley and is easily worth the extra effort to get to.

Boasting the Dordogne’s first ever dam and one of France’s highest at 120m, the lake looks like an inland sea with 26 miles of stunning riverbanks and beaches.

West of the reservoir, a giant wall of jagged columns formed by volcanic lava dominates the landscape and offers Michelin rated panoramas. In the middle of Bort-les-Orgues sits the 15th century Chateau de Val, a superb fairytale castle with a lakeside courtyard and chapel.

If you’re looking for a supervised beach, children’s playground or canoe/pedalo hire, head to Les Aubazines, Sarroux or Val-Lanobre. If you want to push the boat out, swing by Plage de Val and try your hand at a bit of jet-skiing or windsurfing. You’ll also find giant water inflatables and other activities for the kids here too.

Departing from Château de Val, two panoramic boat trips will take you on a fantastic excursion either through the gorges of the Dordogne or down to the dam. Bort-les-Orgues also offers miles of glorious marked walking trails to suit all levels as well as numerous fishing facilities for both the experienced and beginner angler.

Just 15 min South West of Brive-la-Gaillarde, the Lac du Causse offers an exceptional natural setting over its 84-hectare surface. It’s a hotspot for water sports like rowing and water-skiing, with supervised swimming from 10 am to 6 pm in July and August. The lake is also perfect for land pursuits such as hiking and biking with many marked trails.

You can easily reach it from Brive by taking a shuttle (Navettes Libeo), avoiding the need for a car. On-site summer events, such as night markets, let you also indulge in tasting some local produce.

For a fun-packed day, head to the Lac de Feyt where you can swim, canoe, or simply admire the radiant turquoise lake and its lush surroundings from the sandy beach. This 110-acre playground is perfect for canoe and kayak enthusiasts, with sailing is also a popular choice. The beach is supervised all day from Wednesday to Sunday, ensuring a safe environment for families.

Water sports aren’t the only attraction; those who prefer to stay dry can explore the long trails around the area on foot or by bike. Anglers will find joy in night fishing at the lake or at the nearby Barrage du Chastang, where they can try their luck at catching giant carp.

Dogs are welcome too, as long as they are kept on a lead.

Despite the small entrance fee in July and August, the long sandy beach, water slides, diving boards, fitness trail and water sport rentals are definitely worth the few bob.

The swimming area is supervised and various events are organised during peak season. Perched on a plateau above the village of Beynat, the 30 acre Lac de Miel has been awarded the ‘Pavillon Bleu d’Europe’ and ‘Handiplage’ for its beach’s cleanliness and excellent disabled facilities.

Spanning 410 hectares, Lake de la Triouzoune is a prime destination, proudly holding the “European Blue Flag” and “Handiplage” labels for its water quality and disabled facilities. In July and August, visitors can enjoy supervised swimming, ensuring a safe and fun environment for all.

The lake offers a wide array of activities beyond swimming. Anglers can enjoy fishing, while children can partake in various activities. The water sports centre provides options such as sailing, windsurfing, canoeing, kayaking, water-skiing, jet-skiing, and pedal boating. Additionally, lake boat tours and fishing boat rentals enhance the aquatic experiences on offer.

For those who prefer land-based activities, electric bikes are available for rent at the nearby campsite, and golf enthusiasts can enjoy two 9-hole golf courses in close proximity.

Just a stone’s throw from the Gouffre de Proumeyssac, Les Étangs du Bos in Saint-Chamassy is a leisure park by a lake nestled in a lush, wooded area. It features several pools, including a heated one, cool waterslides, and a variety of inflatable play structures, ensuring fun for all ages.

You can take in a round of mini-golf, glide across the pond in a pedal boat, or cast your line in the fishing pond. For the youngest visitors, there are electric car rides featuring Barbie and Spiderman, or a cruise on the Mississippi boat basin.

When hunger strikes, the snack bar is open all day. Picnic tables available and dogs are welcome if kept on a lead.

Spread across 55 hectares, this expansive nature park is conveniently close to the city centre. It boasts a spacious sandy beach offering supervised swimming during July and August, along with dedicated children’s play areas.

Additionally, visitors can unwind at the relaxed “guinguette” eatery, which serves regional menus and hosts music evenings. Families can explore a leisurely nature trail on foot or bike, easily completed in just an hour. Located on Route de Podestat, it’s only 3 km from the city centre, and dogs are welcome if kept on a lead.

Set amidst the tranquil forests to the west of Bergerac, the Lac de Gurson beckons as a premier leisure destination. During the peak summer months of July and August, swimming is supervised for added safety. Admission is free.

Sports enthusiasts will find a plethora of activities to try out, ranging from beach volleyball and archery to orienteering and water sports such as canoeing, kite surfing, and stand-up paddleboarding.

Located just 2 km southeast of Villefranche-de-Lonchat, the Lac de Gurson offers not only a scenic retreat but also a vibrant hub for outdoor adventures in the heart of nature.