Lac du Salagou - Miyun Reservoir
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Lac du Salagou

4.7
·4k reviews·, France

A stunning artificial lake in France, famous for its vibrant red earth shores and azure waters, offering a unique Martian-like landscape for outdoor a...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Lac du Salagou - Miyun Reservoir

Lac du Salagou

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A stunning artificial lake in France, famous for its vibrant red earth shores and azure waters, offering a unique Martian-like landscape for outdoor adventures.

4.7
(4k reviews)

"A truly unique landscape that feels like another planet, perfect for swimming, hiking, and water sports!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Ample Parking Available

Plenty of car parking spots are conveniently located near the water's edge. :car:

🥾 Comfortable Footwear Essential

Wear sturdy shoes for exploring the unique, uneven terrain around the lake. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Red Earth Shores

The Red Earth Shores

Surrounding the lake

Vibrant, iron-rich sandstone creates a surreal, Mars-like landscape against the azure water.

Swimming & Water Sports

Swimming & Water Sports

Designated swimming areas

Dive into the cool, clear waters or enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, and windsurfing.

Hiking & Biking Trails

Hiking & Biking Trails

Around the lake perimeter

Explore scenic routes with breathtaking views, perfect for a day of outdoor activity.

Abandoned Village of Celles

Abandoned Village of Celles

Near the lake

Discover the eerie beauty of this abandoned village, offering a glimpse into the past.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Ochre Hues

The Lac du Salagou's striking red earth and blue waters create a Mars-like landscape. Plan for sun protection and comfortable shoes for exploring its unique terrain. Many visitors enjoy swimming and water sports, so pack accordingly!

Activity Hub & Tranquil Escape

Whether you're seeking adventure like VTT (mountain biking) or a peaceful paddleboard session, Salagou offers it all. Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid crowds and fully immerse yourself in the serene, natural beauty.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Late Spring/Early Autumn
Why
Pleasant temperatures for activities
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Perfect for a refreshing swim
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Un lac etonnnant ! 📍Le lac du Salagou près de Montpellier est incroyable par ses terres de feu plongeant dans le lac. ✨Une perle de l’Hérault avec de nombreuses activités tout autour du lac comme de la randonnée, du kayak, du paddle, du bateau … ✨De quoi passer un agreable moment ! #lacdusalagouherault #salagou #heraulttourisme
@naturevoyagesdecouvertes
29.4K likes • 1.6M views

🚗 Ample Parking Available

Plenty of car parking spots are conveniently located near the water's edge. :car: Reddit

🥾 Comfortable Footwear Essential

Wear sturdy shoes for exploring the unique, uneven terrain around the lake. :athletic_shoe: TikTok

Deuxième jour à Salasc au bord du Salagou :) Hé oui! On peut voyager avec un bébé ! 👶🏻 🌍 Il est vrai qu’il faut s’adapter (on avait initialement prévu d’aller à pied en Espagne, ce qui est technique avec un bébé à porter), mais c’est possible ! Finalement, on a décidé de partir deux mois en camion aménagé ! Un mois en Corse et un mois dans le sud-est de la France ! Pour ceux qui ne nous connaissen...
@naomi.et.lucas
7.6K likes • 127K views
21 km autour du lac du Salagou Un super tour avec les copains 🌊☀️ #LacDuSalagou #RideAndChill #SquadGoals #VéloLife #NatureTrip
lucie_fons
86 likes • 3.2K views

☀️ Sun Protection is Key

The sun can be intense; bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for a comfortable day out. :sunwithface: TikTok

🛶 Bring Your Own Water Gear

While rentals are sometimes available, bringing your own paddleboard or kayak is recommended. :kayak: Reddit

24 km dans les pattounes !🐾 On a fait le tour du lac du Salgou 💦 C’était vraiment beau à voir 😍 Alors ça te donne envie d’aller le voir ? Tu y est déjà allé ? #lac #salgou #life #chienheureux #terrerouge
cara_melthedog
37 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Ample Parking Available

Plenty of car parking spots are conveniently located near the water's edge. :car: Reddit

🥾 Comfortable Footwear Essential

Wear sturdy shoes for exploring the unique, uneven terrain around the lake. :athletic_shoe: TikTok

☀️ Sun Protection is Key

The sun can be intense; bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for a comfortable day out. :sunwithface: TikTok

🛶 Bring Your Own Water Gear

While rentals are sometimes available, bringing your own paddleboard or kayak is recommended. :kayak: Reddit

🐶 Dog-Friendly Exploration

Well-behaved dogs are welcome, and many visitors enjoy exploring with their furry friends. :dog: Instagram

🍽️ Lakeside Dining Options

Enjoy meals with a view at waterside cafes or restaurants a short drive away. :forkandknifewithplate: TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.7
(4k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Lac du Salagou's stunning, unique landscape, comparing it to Mars with its red earth and blue waters. It's praised as a perfect spot for swimming, water sports, hiking, and biking, offering a peaceful escape with convenient facilities. Some mention the water can be a bit cool, and during peak season, it can get crowded.

"Love this place, you can swim and take your paddle board or kayak out onto the lake. Plenty of car parking room, toilets are also on site. There is also a life guarding station with marked out patrol limits."

Andrew Twinam

"Beautiful spot, perfect for a dip in the water with lovely scenery. The car park is conveniently close to the water and there is a few places to eat a very short drive from the lake. There is also a small cafe for drinks and ice cream right on the water where you can sit and enjoy the view."

Isabella Steele

"A very peaceful lake, perfect for spending the day with family or as a couple. There’s a restaurant with views of the lake! 👌🏾 People were fishing, and we brought a SUP and had a fantastic time with my 8yo"

Lautaro Belmonte

What People Like

Unique Martian landscape
Swimming and water sports
Hiking and biking trails

What People Dislike

Water can be cool
Crowded in peak season

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Lac du Salagou is approximately a 40-minute drive from Montpellier. You can rent a car or take a bus to nearby towns and then a taxi. Many visitors opt for a scenic drive to fully appreciate the landscape. TikTok

While direct public transport is limited, you can take a bus from Montpellier to towns like Clermont-l'Hérault and then arrange local transport or a taxi to the lake. Renting a car is generally the most convenient option. Reddit

There are several parking areas around the lake, with many conveniently located close to the water's edge. The parking at the Presqu'île de Rouens is often recommended for its accessibility. TikTokReddit

Yes, the abandoned village of Celles is accessible. While it's a fascinating spot to explore, be mindful of the terrain and wear appropriate footwear. TikTok

Absolutely! The lake is a popular destination for VTT (mountain biking) and cycling, with numerous trails offering stunning views. TikTokInstagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Lac du Salagou is a natural area and generally free to access. There are no entrance fees for the lake itself, though some specific activities or parking areas might have associated costs. TikTok

As a natural lake, Lac du Salagou is open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, facilities like cafes or restaurants will have their own operating hours. Reddit

For personal activities like swimming, paddleboarding, or kayaking with your own gear, no tickets are required. If you plan to rent equipment or join guided tours, booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season. Reddit

During the summer months, designated swimming areas are often supervised by lifeguards, with marked patrol limits for safety. It's always wise to check local signage for current lifeguard presence. Reddit

Yes, camping is available at Lac du Salagou. There are designated campsites that offer a great experience, often with local produce and amenities. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can enjoy a wide range of activities including swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, windsurfing, hiking, biking, fishing, and exploring the unique landscapes. TikTokReddit+1

The water is generally considered safe for swimming, with its unique color due to iron oxide. It's advisable to swim in designated areas and be aware of any local advisories. Reddit

Many visitors enjoy exploring the lake by paddleboard or kayak for a closer look at the shores. Hiking and biking trails offer panoramic views of the entire area. TikTokInstagram

Yes, there are facilities available, including toilets and cafes for drinks and ice cream. Some parking areas are well-equipped. Reddit

The striking reddish-orange hue of the lake is caused by iron oxide present in the sandstone rock formations surrounding it, giving it a surreal, almost Martian appearance. TikTokReddit+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there are restaurants located near the lake, offering dining with beautiful views. La Réserve du Bosc is a popular choice for a special meal. TikTok

Absolutely! The scenic surroundings make it an ideal spot for a picnic. Many parking areas offer convenient access for setting up a picnic. Reddit

You can find small cafes and snack bars right on the water's edge, perfect for grabbing a refreshing drink or ice cream while enjoying the view. Reddit

Expect a range of options from casual cafes to more formal restaurants, often featuring local French cuisine and regional specialties. TikTok

Some campsites and local farms in the area offer fresh produce, especially during market days. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The entire landscape is photogenic! Focus on the contrast between the red earth and blue water, the abandoned village of Celles, and panoramic viewpoints from the hiking trails. TikTok+1

Golden hours, both sunrise and sunset, offer the most dramatic lighting for capturing the vibrant colors of the lake and its surroundings. TikTok

Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone over the lake or surrounding areas. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for details or wildlife. Don't forget a polarizing filter to enhance the colors. TikTok

The viewpoints from the hiking trails around the lake offer stunning panoramic shots. The area around the Presqu'île de Rouens also provides excellent photo opportunities. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Lac du Salagou is a fantastic destination for families. The shallow, calm waters in designated areas are perfect for young children to splash and play safely. TikTok Bringing a paddleboard or inflatable toys can add to the fun. The surrounding trails are also suitable for family hikes and bike rides, offering plenty of space to explore. TikTok

Consider packing picnic essentials as there are many scenic spots perfect for a family lunch. Reddit While there are cafes for snacks, having your own provisions ensures flexibility. The unique red landscape also provides a fun and engaging backdrop for children's imaginations.

🐶 Pet-Friendly Explorers

If you're traveling with your canine companion, Lac du Salagou is a great choice. Many visitors share their experiences of exploring the lake and its trails with their dogs. Instagram Ensure your dog is on a leash where required and always clean up after them. Instagram

The open spaces and varied terrain offer plenty of opportunities for your dog to run and explore. Remember to bring plenty of water for both you and your pet, especially during warmer months, as the sun can be intense. TikTok

🚴‍♀️ Active Adventurers

For those seeking an adrenaline rush, Lac du Salagou is a prime spot. VTT (mountain biking) enthusiasts will find numerous trails winding through the unique ochre landscape. TikTok The 21km loop around the lake is a popular challenge for cyclists. Instagram

Water sports are also a major draw. Whether you're into paddleboarding, kayaking, or windsurfing, the expansive lake provides ample space. TikTok Consider renting equipment or bringing your own to make the most of the aquatic activities. The hiking trails also offer a great way to get your steps in while enjoying stunning vistas.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Unique Geology of Lac du Salagou

Lac du Salagou is an artificial lake, created in the 1960s by damming the Salagou river. What makes it truly spectacular is its surrounding landscape, characterized by rhuys, a type of red sandstone rich in iron oxide. This unique geology gives the lake and its shores a distinctive, almost otherworldly, reddish-orange hue, often compared to the surface of Mars. TikTok+1

The creation of the lake also submerged several villages, with the most notable being the abandoned village of Celles. This ghost village, partially visible when water levels are low, adds a layer of historical intrigue to the natural beauty. Exploring these remnants offers a poignant glimpse into the past and the impact of the lake's creation. TikTok

This geological marvel isn't just for show; it forms the basis for a wide array of outdoor activities. The varied terrain, from smooth shores to rugged trails, is perfect for hiking, biking, and horse riding, while the expansive water body invites swimming, paddleboarding, and windsurfing. TikTok+1

Activities for Every Adventurer

Lac du Salagou is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Water sports are a major draw, with opportunities for swimming in its unique colored waters, paddleboarding, kayaking, and windsurfing. Many visitors bring their own gear, but rentals are often available during peak season. TikTokReddit

For those who prefer to stay on land, the hiking and biking trails are exceptional. You can circumnavigate the lake, covering distances like the 21km loop, or explore more challenging routes that offer breathtaking panoramic views of the ochre landscape. TikTokInstagram VTT (mountain biking) is particularly popular, with trails catering to various skill levels. TikTok

Beyond the typical activities, the area is also known for its peaceful strolls and opportunities for fishing. The natural setting makes it ideal for a relaxing day out, whether you're with family, friends, or seeking a solo escape. Reddit

Planning Your Visit: Practicalities and Tips

When planning your trip to Lac du Salagou, consider visiting on weekdays to avoid the larger crowds that can gather on weekends, especially during summer. Reddit The best time to visit for pleasant weather and fewer people is often late spring or early autumn. TikTok

Parking is generally ample and conveniently located near the water, making it easy to access your chosen activity spot. Reddit However, the terrain can be uneven and sometimes rocky, so wearing comfortable, sturdy footwear is highly recommended, even if you're just planning a leisurely stroll. TikTok

Don't forget sun protection! The open landscape can be exposed, so sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are essential. TikTok For those with furry companions, the lake is generally dog-friendly, allowing you to share the experience with your pets. Instagram

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