Lake Sainte-Croix, a turquoise reservoir at the foot of the Verdon Gorge
On a clear day, the water takes on a shade between blue-green and emerald that fools the eye. You could easily mistake it for Croatia rather than Provence. This is not a natural body of water. Lake Sainte-Croix is an artificial reservoir created in 1974 when EDF built a dam on the Verdon river. Beneath its surface lie the remains of the old village of Les Salles-sur-Verdon, which was submerged during the filling process.
Why this lake is worth the trip
Spanning 2,200 hectares, it stands as one of the largest man-made lakes in France. Its geographic position makes it a standout destination. It marks the downstream entrance to the Verdon Gorge, and where the lake meets the canyon creates one of the most striking views in southeastern France. Fed by the Verdon river, the water keeps its signature color thanks to limestone particles suspended in the current flowing down from the gorge.
Four towns sit along the shoreline: Les Salles-sur-Verdon, Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, and Bauduen. Each provides different access points and a distinct atmosphere, ranging from pebble beaches to secluded coves reachable only by swimming or paddleboard.
What to do here
Renting pedal boats and canoes near the Pont de Galetas bridge at the entrance to the gorge remains the quintessential activity. Paddling a pedal boat up the Verdon from the lake into the opening walls of the canyon delivers an experience hard to match anywhere in the region. Progress is slow, sheer cliffs rise gradually on both sides, and the silence is interrupted only by the calls of swifts.
For water sports enthusiasts, the lake also serves as a popular spot for windsurfing and stand-up paddleboarding, powered by a thermal wind that picks up reliably by late morning. Swimming is permitted along most shores, though certain sections are set aside strictly for watercraft.
Friendly tip: Get to the Pont de Galetas before 9 AM in July and August. Pedal boat rental companies book up completely by mid-morning, and the line can test your patience. Outside of July and August, the lake returns to a remarkable calm, the colors remain just as vivid, and the crowds drop drastically.
The sunken village, a lasting piece of history
The history of the lake is tied directly to the old village of Les Salles-sur-Verdon, evacuated under orders in 1973 and flooded the following year. Residents were relocated to a faithful replica of the village built slightly higher up. During years of severe drought, low water levels occasionally reveal foundations, low stone walls, and street layouts. It serves as a stark reminder that this postcard scenery rests on a collective memory still very much alive for local families.
Ideal for
- Families with kids thanks to accessible beaches and calm water activities
- Fans of paddleboarding and surface water sports
- Travelers pairing a trip to the Verdon Gorge with a relaxing day by the water
- Photographers, especially early in the morning for low-angle light on the water
Less suitable if
- You want solitude in the middle of August since shores near the towns get very crowded
- You expect warm water swimming because the Verdon stays cold even in summer
- You do not have a car since public transit options to the lake shores are limited
Opening hours
Lake Sainte-Croix is a natural area open to the public all year, with no set opening or closing times. Swimming and water activities are, however, subject to the regulations of the Gorges du Verdon (Verdon Gorge).
Boating and rentals for electric boats or pedal boats are generally available from early April to late October, depending on weather conditions and current local prefectural decrees. Nautical centers operate daily during this period, with peak activity in July and August.
How long for this activity
Plan on a half day to enjoy a swim and a pedal boat ride, or a full day if you want to explore the shorelines and more secluded coves of Lake Sainte-Croix.
Lake Sainte-Croix is an absolute must-see spot right at the exit of the Gorges du Verdon. For me, I loved alternating between hiking and swimming on a summer day! The advantage is that you can find everything around here. You can rent a kayak, take a dip, admire the surrounding countryside... As a bonus, the Pre-Alps mountains create a fantastic backdrop that reflects in the colorful water!