Lac de Castillon – mountain lake near Castellane in Haute Provence

Swimming and relaxing by the lake

Lac de Castillon is a swimmer’s paradise. In summer, the water temperature ranges between 22 and 25 degrees. It is also worth noting that the water is clean and the beaches are easily accessible. Furthermore, swimming is permitted in almost the entire lake, except near the dam.

The beach of Saint-Julien-du-Verdon is the most popular and well-known beach in the region. Here you can rent a sunbed and enjoy a delicious lunch at Le Pidanoux, whilst taking in the stunning panoramic views of the water. On the other side of the lake is Plage du Plan, a place that is much quieter. Here you can swim or fish in peace without the crowds around you. There are also secluded coves that you can only reach on foot or by canoe. These hidden paradises are perfect for those who are looking for the serene silence of Provence. For more inspiration, you can also check the most beautiful beaches in Provence page.

Even more to enjoy in France

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Walking and cycling in Provence

The area around Lac de Castillon is ideal for summer activities. The walking trails offer ever-changing views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
We highly recommend the Pont de Cheiron-route, a seven-kilometer walk that takes about two hours. There is also the Tour du Lac. This route is about thirteen kilometres longer and takes you through forests and past stunning viewpoints. Futhermore, in the nearby village you can climb up the Notre-Dame du Roc, a chapel offering panoramic views over the valley. For experienced walkers, the GR4 route is a challenging trek that connects this region with the impressive Gorges du Verdon.
For more information on the possibilities of hiking in Provence, see hiking in Provence.

Cycling and mountain biking at the Lac de Castillon

There are countless cycle routes around Lac de Castillon. The roads are wonderfully quiet, with hardly any traffic, and they wind through dense forests and vast fields of lavender. If you want to learn more about the fragrant lavender fields of Provence, you can visit the Maison de la Lavande, where you can learn all about the cultivation, distillation and perfume traditions of the region.
Bike rental is available at Verdon Bike (on the D4085) and at Saint-André Vélo Location in Saint-André-les-Alpes. You can rent an e-bike from €25 per day and a mountain bike from €18 per day.

There is also plenty of choice for cyclists: from quiet paths to challenging mountain roads. Popular routes are:

• Around the lake (25 km): varied terrain with slight inclines. Duration: about 2.5 hours.
• Col de Luens (18 km): a challenging climb with a 600-metre elevation gain, rewarded by views over the Verdon Valley.
• Castellane – Demandolx – Saint-Julien-du-Verdon (30 km): panoramic route with views over the lake.
• In addition, the Route des Vins de Provence is a must for wine lovers: a scenic route along wine estates where you can taste and enjoy local rosé and olive oil.

For mountain biking enthusiasts, there are marked trails above Demandolx with challenging sections through the forest. If you're looking for more inspiration, take a look at Cycling in Provence and Côte d'Azur.

Water sports at Lac de Castillon

The lake is free of motor boats. It is precisely for this reason that the water remains so clear and the surroundings so peaceful. Despite this tranquillity, there is plenty of room for all kinds of water sports. These are not inferior to the possibilities on the coast. 

Canoeing, kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding

At the Base Nautique Saint-Julien-du-Verdon you can hire canoes, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards. Prices start from just  €12 per hour, which makes it accessible to everyone. A special experience is the evening sunset tour: you will leave around 8:00 pm for a quiet two-hour kayak trip on the calm waters. With lights on the kayaks, you glide across the lake in the twilight and enjoy the serene surroundings.
You can also visit Base de Loisirs Castellane, which is ideal for families with young children. Would you like to go on longer trips or undertake activities with a group? Then the Nautic Base Saint-André-les-Alpes is an excellent choice. The rental locations are open from May to September. With each rental, you will also receive a life jacket and a waterproof container for your belongings.

Sailing and electric boating

The Club Nautique du Lac de Castillon in Saint-André-les-Alpes offers sailing lessons and small boat hire. A two-hour introductory class will cost €45, while a five-day course will cost €180. For families or couples who want to enjoy the stunning view in peace, renting an electric boat is an excellent choice. You can rent them from €35 per hour at the Base Nautique in Saint-Julien-du-Verdon or Castellane. These boats are easy to operate and you don't need a license. Along the way, you can stop at small beaches for a swim or to enjoy a picnic.

Windsurfing, wakeboarding and water skiing

Furthermore, the lake is also ideal for windsurfing and wakeboarding. The wind is steady and perfect for beginners. Club Aventure Saint-André and AquaPlay Castillon offer both lessons and equipment rental. A lesson costs about €25 per hour. For those looking for a bit more of an adrenaline rush, AquaPlay Castillon offers the chance to try electric-powered water skiing or wakeboarding. A twenty-minute session costs around €40 and includes equipment and instructor.

Diving and snorkeling

Thanks to the crystal-clear water, Demandolx and Saint-Julien-du-Verdon are ideal spots for snorkelling. Here you can see small fish, shells and rock formations. If you're curious to see what lies deeper underwater, you can book a trial dive at Plongée Verdon Diving Club for just €60.

Fishing on Lac de Castillon

The lake is ideal for anglers. In the deep, clear waters, you will find different types of fish such as trout, carp, pike, perch and even catfish. You will need a French fishing license (carte de pêche), which you can obtain from the Office de Tourisme in Castellane or via www.cartedepeche.fr. The best times for fishing are early in the morning and at sunset. Popular spots include the Verdon estuary on the north side and the quiet bays at Demandolx. Fishing is permitted from sunrise to sunset, but night fishing is not allowed.

Viewpoints around the lake

The area around Lac de Castillon offers countless vantage points from which to enjoy spectacular panoramic views:

• Belvédère de Castellane: a viewpoint overlooking the village and the southern part of the lake.
• Col de Cheiron: views over the Verdon valley and the Alps.
• Route de Demandolx: panoramic road with rest areas and photo spots.
• Pont de Soleil: a small bridge on the north side with a view of the quiet part of the lake.

These locations in Provence are ideal for photography, especially during sunset, when the water glows turquoise against the orange glow of the mountains.

Adventurous activities in the area

Lac de Castillon lies at the heart of the Parc Naturel Régional du Verdon conservation area, where sustainable tourism, nature conservation and responsible recreation are key priorities.

Paragliding over the lake

One of the most impressive ways to experience Lac de Castillon is from the air. In Saint-André-les-Alpes, you will find the Aérogliss paragliding club, which offers tandem flights for beginners. You take off from a mountain peak and glide silently over the water. The flight itself takes about twenty to thirty minutes and costs around €90. In clear weather, you can see the snow-capped Alps in the distance, the village of Castellane below you and the glistening lake stretching out beneath your feet – an experience many visitors describe as unforgettable.

Horse riding, climbing and canyoning

There are several riding schools in the Castellane area where you can go horse-riding through the valleys and forests of Haute Provence. There are also rock faces nearby where you can go climbing under supervision. And if you’re looking for adventure, you can try canyoning in the nearby Gorges du Verdon: an exciting combination of climbing, swimming and abseiling through the impressive gorges.
You can find more ideas for an active holiday at Active holidays in Provence and Côte d'Azur.

Sights and culture

The region offers a wonderful blend of nature and culture. The natural environment around the lake is actively protected by organizations such as WWF France, which are committed to preserving biodiversity in Provence and the Verdon Valley. In the heart of Castellane, you will find lively squares and terraces, alongside a charming weekly market where the air is filled with the scent of thyme and lavender. The village lies on the famous Route Napoléon, which runs from Cannes to Grenoble. Be sure to visit the Chapelle Notre-Dame du Roc, accessible via a footpath offering panoramic views. For lovers of history and heritage, the Institut National du Patrimoine provides fascinating background information on the monuments and villages of the South of France.

Nearby attractions include:

• Gorges du Verdon: the impressive gorge often called the 'Grand Canyon of Europe'.
• Valensole: famous for its lavender fields, which are in full bloom in June and July.
• Grasse: the perfume capital of France.
• Moustiers-Sainte-Marie: one of the most beautiful villages in France, known for pottery.

On the official site of Visit Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, you will find further information about villages, markets and hiking trails in the area. For an overview of the coastal towns and cultural gems, visit Provence and Côte d'Azur on the Mediterranean Sea and Seaside resorts on the Côte d'Azur.

Seasonal tips and the best time to visit

Provence is one of the sunniest regions in Europe, with over 300 days of sunshine a year. The best time to visit depends on your preferences.

Those who travel in spring or autumn benefit from lower prices and a more peaceful atmosphere. In summer, things are livelier, with plenty of families around, but there is never any mass tourism. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to visit the most beautiful villages at your leisure.

Other beautiful regions of FranceComfort

Provence is without a doubt one of the most beautiful regions in France, but FranceComfort also offers exceptional holiday parks in other parts of the country. For instance, you could opt for a holiday in the Dordogne, a region full of rolling hills, castles and rivers. Anyone who loves authentic villages, local markets and good food will feel right at home here. In this area, FranceComfort offers several parks, including the ideal luxury holiday home in the Dordogne for families or couples seeking comfort in a rural setting.
The Poitou-Charentes is also an attractive destination. This region, situated between the Loire and the Atlantic coast, is known for its sun-drenched climate, historic towns and cycle routes along rivers. FranceComfort has several parks here where you can rent a comfortable holiday home in Poitou-Charentes.
If you would like to compare all options, take a look at our full range of holiday homes. Whether you choose Provence, the Dordogne or Poitou-Charentes, you will always find an accommodation that suits your needs.

Frequently asked questions

1. Is swimming allowed anywhere in Lac de Castillon?
Yes, except near the dam. The beaches at Saint-Julien-du-Verdon and Castellane are lifeguard-supervised in the summer.
2. Where can you rent boats or surfboards?
At the Base Nautique Saint-Julien-du-Verdon, Base de Loisirs Castellane and Nautic Base Saint-André-les-Alpes.
3. How much does a sailing lesson cost?
An introductory lesson costs €45, a five-day course €180.
4. Is the lake child-friendly?
Yes, the beaches slope gently and there are lifeguards on duty during high season.
5. Are there more FranceComfort holiday parks in Provence?
Yes, other holiday parks include Résidence de Salernes, Jardin du Golf and Vallée de la Ste. Baume parks.