Lac de Sainte-Croix
A turquoise artificial lake at the exit of the Verdon Gorge. Lakeside beaches, swimming, and boat trips into the canyon are classic summer activities in Provence.
Lac de Sainte-Croix is a reservoir created in 1974 when a dam was built. It covers about 22 square km, and its water takes on a turquoise tint from minerals carried down from the gorge. It is one of the largest artificial lakes in France. The Galetas bridge at the eastern end marks the exit of the Verdon Gorge. From the bridge you can photograph the canyon entrance. Boat rentals below the bridge offer pedal boats, kayaks, and electric boats for trips into the gorge, at about €20–30 per hour, from May to September. The lakeside towns of Bauduen and Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon have swimming areas and beaches. The north-shore road is also the main route across the Valensole Plateau during lavender season. The lake area is free to visit and is only reachable by car, about 15 minutes from Moustiers-Sainte-Marie. In summer, the midday sun is intense, and life jackets are required on boats.
Opening hours
All day (boat rental approx. May–Sep 09:00–18:00)
Nearby sights
- Aiguines
- Musée de la Faïence de Moustiers
- Moustiers-Sainte-Marie
- Chapelle Notre-Dame de Beauvoir
- Riez
- Gorges du Verdon
- Valensole Lavender Fields
- Musée de Préhistoire des Gorges du Verdon