In the middle of the mountains, Lake Serre-Ponçon is an ideal place to enjoy friendly moments during the summer.
With its 3 kilometers wide and 20 kilometers long, Lake Serre-Ponçon connects the departments of Hautes-Alpes and Alpes-de-Haute-Provence. A body of water which attracts many tourists in search of coolness in summer and who can enjoy breathtaking views of the mountains.
The largest artificial lake in France
To understand the origin of Lake Serre-Ponçon, we have to go back to the 20th century. The dam was then built to prevent the recurrence of the Durance and Ubaye floods which had caused damage a century earlier.
For four years, work was carried out to complete the structure which was built in 1961. The lake was full for the first time on May 18, 1961. With 1.27 billion m3 of water, it contained the equivalent of what 320,000 Olympic swimming pools contain! The dam is one of the largest in Europe.
This impoundment has the effect of covering the ancient villages of Savines-le-Lac and Ubaye. Savines was rebuilt on the left bank of the lake and a 920 meter long bridge was installed to connect the two sides. As far as he is concerned, Ubaye no longer exists, and only a cemetery relocated to the edge of the lake remains.
Water activities at the lake
Now, this artificial lake (which is also the largest in mainland France) is a delight for locals and tourists come summer season, the temperature of its waters can reach 24°C in summer! On site, you will find supervised beaches as well as numerous water activities, such as motorboating, pedal boats, canoeing… not forgetting water skiing and towed buoying!
Looking for a memorable day at Lake Serre-Ponçon? Meet at the Paillote du Lac, located on the left bank. After going down a small winding path, you will discover a charming cabin nestled in the greenery, slightly elevated from the lake. This restaurant offers local specialties in a decor that is both modern and rural, with direct access to a small private beach.
Change of scenery !
If you discover Lake Serre-Ponçon in winter, you will probably be slightly disturbed by the change of scenery! During this season, EDF regulates the height of its waters in relation to the requested hydroelectric production, the capacity of the reservoirs and the water flows coming from the Ubaye and the Durance.
It is only in spring, with the melting of the snow and the weather conditions, that the two rivers fill up, allowing the vat to regain all its splendor.
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