Lac Pavin

Lac Pavin is a 3-km-wide crater lake in Besse-et-Saint-Anastaise, France. Located in the center of the Sancy Massif mountain range, it is the largest of its kind in the Auvergne region.

Formed by a volcanic eruption roughly 500 million years ago, Lac Pavin has a unique and varied terrain, with forests that surround the lake and hills that drop down to its shore. Its deep, dark waters are exceptionally clear, reflecting the beauty of the rugged terrain and lush surroundings. Visitors can take a hike around the lake or explore the nearby Anostaise River Valley, which flows south from Lac Pavin. There are also plenty of interesting trails leading up the surrounding hills, which offer wonderful views of the valley and lake. Notable sites include Roc de Levezou, which offers views of the Massif de Sancy, and the nearby village of Besse. For more adventurous visitors, there are mountain biking trails, fishing in the lake and the rivers, and parasailing sites. The lake is also a popular destination for kayaking, sailing and swimming. For those looking to capture its beauty on camera, the lake is easy to reach, and the views are magnificent.