Lac du Cébron, recreational lake near Les Forges with beach and water sports

Lac Cebron 5 vakantie les Forges Frankrijk deux sevres poitou charentes gezin kinderen waterattracti

Go on day trip to Lac du Cébron during your holidays

During a holiday in Les Forges, many people visit Lac du Cébron for one or more days. This recreational lake near Saint-Loup-Lamairé, in the department of Deux-Sèvres (Nouvelle-Aquitaine region), is half an hour's drive from your holiday home in the Poitou-Charentes. It is a wonderful destination to cool off during hot summer days. Families with children or couples head here to enjoy the peace and nature. However, most come for the water and the activities both on and in the water such as swimming, canoeing, windsurfing, supping or sailing. In between, take a break and sunbathe on the beach or play with your children. You can do whatever you want at Lac du Cébron: relax on the shore, be active on the water or build sandcastles with your children.

Lac du Cébron, an oasis of peace and space

The recreational lake is located in a beautiful green landscape and is surrounded by forests, fields and hiking trails. The atmosphere is quiet, rural and typically French. You can hear birds chirping, the murmur of the water and the soft buzzing of insects in summer. At the southern end of the lake is a pleasant recreational area with beaches and lawns where families lay down their towels to sunbathe. You can also relax by reading a book or just doing nothing. Children will have hours of fun building castles in the sand or playing with a ball. At the end of the day, tired but satisfied, you can return to your holiday home in Les Forges.

Playground equipment

Various playground equipment such as slides, climbing frames and swings are located all over the park. Families with young children often sit in the vicinity of the playground equipment so that they can watch their children. The beaches on the edge of the recreational lake Lac du Cébron are a safe and lively place for a family-friendly day out.

Lac Cebron 6 vakantie les Forges Frankrijk deux sevres poitou charentes gezin kinderen waterattracti

Picnics and restaurants by the lake

Around Lac du Cébron there are several picnic areas with tables and benches, that are often located in the shade of trees. Bring a basket full of goodies and enjoy lunch overlooking the water. For those who prefer to sit down, there is a restaurant with a terrace on the south bank where you can enjoy a light meal, coffee or an ice cream. The view over the lake is beautiful, ideal for taking a break while windsurfing or enjoying other water sports on Lac du Cebron. There are more cozy cafes and restaurants in the nearby Saint-Loup-Lamairé. This charming village has a picturesque village square with a few lively restaurants serving local cuisine. We recommend Le P'tit Saint Loup, known for its friendly service and local cuisine with fresh ingredients. Auberge de la Vallée du Cébron is also popular with holidaymakers: it is a traditional French restaurant where you can have lunch or dinner whilst enjoying a stunning view over the water

The 5 best water activities at Lac du Cébron

1. Stand-up paddleboarding on the calm water
Nowadays, stand-up paddleboarding has become an integral part of French recreational lakes. At Lac du Cébron, you can rent a SUP board and cruise over the water at your own pace. Because the lake is relatively shallow and calm, it is very suitable for beginners and children. Along the way you have beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.

2. Canoeing and kayaking
Another fun way to explore the lake is by canoe or kayak. You can rent these on the edge of the lake. Cruise past reed beds, watch the sun reflect on the water, and dock at a quiet spot for a lovely picnic. Especially in the morning, when it is still quiet on the lake, this is a particularly relaxing activity.

3. Sailing – feel the wind in your sails
For those who like a bit of adventure, sailing is a must. At the local water sports club you can rent small sailing boats, suitable for families or couples. On a day with a nice breeze, it is a wonderful experience to sail across the lake. Sailing lessons are also occasionally organized in the summer months.

4. Surfing and windsurfing
On windy days, Lac du Cébron is popular with windsurfers. There is a special part of the lake set aside for this sport. Both novice and experienced surfers can indulge themselves here. For families with teenagers, this is a fun activity that provides some action and adrenaline during the holidays.

5. Beach activities and sports
Those who prefer to stay on dry land will find plenty to do around the lake. On the beaches you can  play beach volleyball or football, and on hot days it is a nice place to sit with your feet in the water. The lawns offer plenty of space for your picnic blankets, to play games or for an afternoon of relaxing in the sun.

Lac Cebron 2 vakantie les Forges Frankrijk deux sevres poitou charentes gezin kinderen waterattracti
Lac Cebron 1 vakantie les Forges Frankrijk deux sevres poitou charentes gezin kinderen waterattracti

Holidays in Les Forges – the perfect starting point

A day trip to Lac du Cébron fits perfectly into your holiday at holiday park Domaine les Forges or one of the other holiday parks in Les Forges. After a morning at the lake, you can drive back to your comfortable villa with garden or terrace within fifteen minutes. At your holiday home you can relax by the pool, cook together or enjoy a barbecue in the evening sun. Les Forges is also centrally located for trips in the region. Combine your visit to Lac du Cébron, for example, with a visit to the charming village of Parthenay, a picturesque village with medieval streets and a lively market, or visit the Bioparc de Doué-la-Fontaine zoo. It is advisable to keep a whole day free when visiting Futuroscope or Aquascope.

Frequently Asked Questions about Lac du Cébron

Can you swim in Lac du Cébron?
Yes, swimming is permitted. The lake is also the perfect place to go supping, canoeing, sailing or surfing.

Are there any beaches by the lake?
Yes, on the south side of the lake there are small beaches with sand and lawns. Here you can sunbathe, play volleyball and have a picnic.

Is the lake suitable for children?
Absolutely. There is playground equipment, safe banks and plenty of space to play. It is an ideal destination for families with young children.

Where to eat or drink at Lac du Cébron?
There is a restaurant with a terrace on the south bank. Saint-Loup-Lamairé is home to multiple restaurants and cafes offering local cuisine and kid-friendly menus.

How far is Lake Forges?
More than 30 kilometers, which is about a 30-minute drive. Good to combine with other attractions in the area.

Why Lac du Cébron is perfect for families

Lac du Cébron is well-organized, clean and child-friendly. The lake is not too big and the paths are flat – ideal for prams or bicycles. There's plenty of parking and local activities such as, sports tournaments, markets and family days are regularly organised in high season.

It is a place where children can play freely and parents can really relax. No mass tourism, no crowds – just peace, nature and conviviality.

Practical information

  • Location: Saint-Loup-Lamairé (Deux-Sèvres, Nouvelle-Aquitaine)
  • istance from Les Forges: approx. 35 km
  • ctivities: stand-up paddleboarding, canoeing, sailing, surfing, beach volleyball
  • Amenities: playground equipment, picnic areas, lawns
  • Facilities: restaurant with terrace, toilets, parking
  • Best time to visit: May to September
Back to the overview