The essentials of Lake Serre-Ponçon
Before being a postcard setting, Lake Serre-Ponçon is first and foremost a story of men, water and mountains.
Created in the 1960s with the construction of the dam, it forever transformed the landscape. But it also preserved places, symbols, and natural curiosities that can be discovered today along the water or from atop a lookout.
The origins of the lake: the dam
A lake shaped by man
Lake Serre-Ponçon wouldn't exist without it. Built in the 1960s to control the whims of the Durance River, the Serre-Ponçon dam is an engineering giant that transformed an entire valley. Today, it supplies the region with renewable energy and offers an impressive setting, combining industrial heritage with magnificent landscapes.
Witnesses of the past, survivors of the waters
They were there long before the lake. These iconic sites survived the rising waters and today, each in their own way, tell the story of Serre-Ponçon.
Saint-Michel Chapel
An absolute symbol of Lake Serre-Ponçon, the Saint-Michel Chapel sits alone on its rocky island, in the heart of the turquoise waters. A witness to a submerged past, it intrigues as much as it amazes. Saved from the waters when the lake was created, it is today one of the most photographed sites in the Hautes-Alpes.
To be admired from Saint-Michel Bay or from the paths overlooking it.
The Chanteloube Viaduct
It is one of the most fascinating symbols of Serre-Ponçon. Sometimes submerged beneath the turquoise waters of the lake, sometimes standing proudly above the banks, the Chanteloube viaduct plays with time and the seasons. A remnant of an abandoned railway project, it can be crossed on foot or by bike when the lake level is low... and can be admired by kayak or from the lookouts when it disappears beneath the waves.
A magical place, out of time, to be discovered throughout the seasons.
Nature along the water
Here, nature has found its way closer to the turquoise waters. Unusual and unspoiled landscapes, to be discovered in contemplative or adventurous mode.
The Liou Riparian Forest, a forest with its feet in the water
At the end of the lake, in Baratier, the Liou riparian forest is a little gem of unspoiled nature. Here, the trees sink their roots into the water and create an almost tropical setting in the heart of the Alps.
A path on stilts crosses this “alpine mangrove” for a short walk accessible to all, close to the water and biodiversity.
A calm, unspoiled site, perfect for a refreshing break and a moment of observation.
The submerged tree of Chanterenne
A solitary tree, rooted in the water... This astonishing spectacle unfolds when the lake reaches its maximum level. A true plant mirage, a reflection of a lake with a thousand faces.
To observe it, head to Crots, near Chanterenne beach. Simply take the EDF dike that runs along the lake towards Baratier.
A short, easy stroll in a setting as ephemeral as it is poetic.
Turtle Island
With its pine trees clinging to the rock and its rounded silhouette barely emerging from the turquoise waters, Turtle Island is one of Serre-Ponçon's little treasures.
It is its shell-like shape that has earned it this affectionate nickname. Wild, tiny, and heavenly, it can be admired from the banks or brushed against by boat, paddleboard, or kayak...
And for the lucky ones, the view from the air is breathtaking.
The hanging oak of Bois Vieux
Just a few paddle strokes from Bois Vieux beach in Rousset, lies a little corner of paradise known to those in the know. A wild cove, accessible only by water, where a remarkable oak tree hangs over the lake, its roots just above the water's surface.
Canoe, paddleboard, boat... you'll have to embark on a search for him. An explorer-style adventure, perfect for playing Robinson Crusoe and enjoying a swim away from the crowds.
Recommended departure: Bois Vieux Beach (Rousset)
Explore the wild coves of Serre-Ponçon
Serre-Ponçon's most beautiful playground may be the one we keep secret. There are no signposts or developed beaches here: just wild, hidden corners, accessible only from the water. Hop on your paddleboard, canoe, or kayak, or hop aboard a boat and explore the lake's most unspoiled coves.
Between the bays of Chanteloube and Saint-Michel, white cliffs plunge into turquoise waters, revealing tiny, secluded beaches. On the Ubaye side or around Bois Vieux beach, other tranquil spots await adventurers seeking peace and quiet surrounded by nature.
Let yourself be guided by your instinct… and your desire to escape.
The most beautiful viewpoints of Lake Serre-Ponçon
To better appreciate the vastness of Serre-Ponçon, sometimes you have to step back a little... or gain some height. From the roadside to the legendary summit, the most beautiful viewpoints in the area offer unforgettable panoramas of the lake and its mountains.
Some are easily accessible by car, others are earned after a beautiful hike — but always with the promise of a breathtaking view.
Explore the treasures of Lake Serre-Ponçon
From its must-see sites to its magnificent panoramas, Lake Serre-Ponçon is full of places to discover. Between natural curiosities, historical heritage, and spectacular viewpoints, each visit is an opportunity to admire the emblematic landscapes of the Hautes-Alpes. Whether you enjoy waterside walks, water sports, or contemplative breaks overlooking the peaks, Serre-Ponçon invites you to explore its riches, from the monumental dam to the wild coves and the picturesque villages that line its shores.
Extend your discovery of the lake
A lake with turquoise waters, mountains within easy reach, activities for all tastes... In Serre-Ponçon, there's more than one way to experience your vacation. Whether you want to paddle, climb, hike, or simply enjoy yourself, there's always a new idea to explore.
