Looking for a natural, unspoilt beach with turquoise waters? It's here in Serre-Ponçon: Baie de Chanteloube! The simple pleasures of sharing, picnicking, pedal-boating and canoeing. Quiet! Keep it a secret...
Serre-Ponçon postcard
Today it's Chanteloube Bay, a little corner of paradise or nothing!
Winding roads, blue skies, sunshine and the Lac de Serre-Ponçon: a real picture postcard.
From the RN94, at the Chorges exit, take the D3 towards Barrage de Serre-Ponçon, then turn left towards Baie de Chanteloube / Club de Voile. There are several parking lots: one at the Club Nautique de Chanteloube and another just before the large parking lot at Plage des Trémouilles. A word of advice: come early, as parking is difficult during the summer season. The road is narrow and large stones protect the ledge. Drive at walking pace, especially when crossing the road.
The plunging bridge
From the parking lot, you can see the bridge plunging into the turquoise waters of Lac de Serre-Ponçon in its mountain setting. It's a magical sight that arouses curiosity, but what's the story behind this genuine treasure?
The Pont de Chanteloube is one of the main engineering structures built during the construction of a railroad line between Grenoble and Barcelonnette (1910-1934).
At low water, at a height of less than 773m, it emerges completely above Lac de Serre-Ponçon and can even be crossed on foot or by bike.
One thing's for sure: we'll be back... And you?
The Moulettes spring, which flows into Lac de Serre-Ponçon at Baie des Moulettes (another name for Baie de Chanteloube), is tapped for bottling under the "La Roche des Ecrins" label at the Chorges plant, which produces 120 million bottles a year.
In the water, toboggan and pedalo
Our water excursion starts on a pedalo with slide. The children laugh, slide, jump, dive... The beauty of the wild, quiet coves is reminiscent of Corsica, the feeling of being alone in the world.
Dueling with his pike
Perched on a rock, a fisherman duels with his pike. The children are amazed: the rod bends, the line tightens, the reflection of the sun on the scales, the splashing of the water with each leap of the monster, everything comes together to make this moment unique.
Fishing
Comfort after effort
The smell of the barbecue awakens our taste buds. A choice of sausages, tourtons, fresh vegetables... our feast of friends is ready to enjoy. Pétanque, Mölkky, slackline in the shade of the pine forest: thrills guaranteed! Or a hammock for the lazy ones... a moment of sharing in the heart of nature.
Its rich fauna and varied locations make Serre-Ponçon the ideal playground for everyone from novice anglers to true enthusiasts, and above all, the opportunity to fish all year round.
Stop off at the Chorges market on Sunday mornings to find all the fresh local produce.
Welcome to the Caribbean
On the beach, we lose ourselves in the immensity of this small Caribbean sea. Bathing in fresh water, ricochet competitions, water games, tickling little fish - it's a far cry from the city life and crowded beaches of the Côte d'Azur.
The beach has been awarded the Blue Flag label, which guarantees exemplary environmental quality and numerous facilities, including a first-aid station, sanitary facilities and beach showers.
The adventure of wild creeks by canoe
Here we are, on our canoe, and the adventure begins. First paddle strokes, first sensations, first bursts of laughter from the whole tribe: a total change of scenery. As we approach the small, wild creeks accessible only by boat, the excitement is at its peak. We're truly privileged!
Rent a two-seater canoe from Club Nautique de Chanteloube for between €12 per hour and €45 per day.
We don't want to leave ?
The day is drawing to a close, but we don't want to leave this haven of well-being, nature at its purest. The place empties out, and we're off for a barbeque-apéro evening, pétanque, night-swimming - what more could you ask for!
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