This summer, why not give sandy beaches at the seaside a miss, and lay down your towel in these unique bathing spots?
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France is heaven for fans of freshwater lakes and rivers: whether you prefer sunbathing or more athletic activities, there is something for everyone. Discover our top places for swimming in the wild!
These are our top 9 unique places for a dip in France:
1. The Cascades de Purcaraccia, in South Corsica
This exceptional location is reached by a 17-kilometre hike from Solenzara. Once you arrive, the emerald waters call to you to take a dip. These are the most beautiful natural pools in Corsica.
The numerous slides and cascades makes this the most impressive series of waterfalls in the region. It is as fun as it is magical!
2. Chute de la Druise, in the Vercors
Our path begins in the village of Ansage, Omblèze, in the southwestern portion of the Vercors Natural Park. When you arrive, you will be faced with what is undoubtedly the most beautiful waterfall in all of the Vercors.
This refreshing spot offers a lagoon with crystal clear water and an incredible waterfall 72 metres high, all surrounded by lush greenery.
>> To get there, take the train to Grenoble and hire a car with the Ma location AVIS service.
3. The beaches of the Jura
That’s right, the Jura is full of places to enjoy a swim, chief among them being the Lac de Chalain. This little paradise of turquoise waters is the largest natural lake in the Jura.
Offering both well-maintained swimming areas and a variety of water sports, this is the perfect place for the whole family!
>>To get there, take the train to Lons-Le-Saunier
4. The Cascades du Martinet, in the Cevennes
Lay out your beach towel in the heart of the Cevennes, in Saint-Etienne-Vallée-Française.
The Cascades du Martinet, located 40 kilometres from Alès along the Gardon de Sainte-Croix, offer several natural pools where children and adults alike can indulge in the joys of swimming in an idyllic setting.
>> To get there, take the train to Alès and hire a car with the Ma location AVIS service.
5. The beach of Gluges, in the Dordogne
All along the Dordogne, you will find a multitude of sandy and cobblestone beaches that are wild and well preserved.
Located in Montvalent at the foot of some majestic cliffs, the beach of Gluges is a perfect option if you are travelling with children: there is a lifeguard on duty (in July and August only), and the site is also open to canoeing!
6. Restonica Gorge, in Corsica
Restonica, in the centre of the island, offers waterfalls and pools of crystal clear waters.
In the midst of these stunning gorges flows a river 18 kilometres long. This site offers numerous natural pools and waterfalls perfect for swimming in nature. You’ll have plenty to choose from!
Lie down on one of the large, smooth boulders and enjoy the stunning landscapes of the Isle of Beauty.
7. The Méouge Gorges, in the Hautes-Alpes
The Méouge Gorges, a designated nature reserve, are home to an exceptional array of flora and fauna, and in the summer they offer a refreshing getaway for lovers of swimming and nature.
The pools, waterfalls and natural slides make for a natural playground that is perfect for swimming, jumping and having fun! These gorges, known as the “wonder of the Hautes-Alpes”, are well worth a visit.
>> To get there, take the train to Sisteron
8. The Pont du Diable, in the commune of Thueyts in the Ardèche
The only scary thing about the Pont du Diable (Devil’s Bridge), located in the heart of the Monts d’Ardèche Regional Nature Park, is the name. Perched 20 metres above the Ardèche, the Pont du Diable is a very popular spot for bathing.
>> Get your fill of sensations in the Gorges de l’Ardèche
The setting is simply idyllic. Courageous types can try the “grand saut” (big jump), while others can enjoy the well-maintained areas along the river bank. The cherry on top? An open-air cafe to quench your thirst on hot summer days.
>> To get there, take the train to Valence and hire a car with the Ma location AVIS service.
9. The Gorges du Verdouble, in Duilhac
Not too far from the Mediterranean, between the Château de Peyrepertuse and the village of Cucugnan, lie the Gorges du Verdouble.
This area, also known as “Moulin de Ribaute” (because of the old mill nearby) offers a splendid swimming area in a picturesque setting.
The transparent water flows through a succession of waterfalls, water holes, and small natural lakes carved into the rock. With smaller pools for children and larger pools for adults, this site offers something for everyone!
>> To get there, take the train to Perpignan and hire a car with the Ma location AVIS service.
