If it is a real change of scenery you are looking for, Lake Castillon is the place to go. It lies in the heart of the Verdon Regional Natural Park, a vast natural area spanning 188,000 hectares that connects the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence and Var departments.
For a comfortable getaway in the region, book your stay at l’Oasis du Verdon campsite. Located at the gateway to the Gorges du Verdon, the property is around 81 kilometres from the lake (about 1 hr 47 min by car).
Lake Castillon is the perfect spot to relax with family and loved ones. Surrounded by mountains, it offers a soothing setting, ideal for a complete escape. Set at 900 metres above sea level, the lake is close to the villages of Saint-André-les-Alpes and Saint-Julien-du-Verdon.
Holidaymakers can also enjoy the beautiful small beaches along the shores of Lake Castillon. With its flora and fauna, the area feels more like an alpine landscape. The air is fresh and clean, and the views of the surrounding mountains are breathtaking.
Lake Castillon is an ideal place for water sports. Visitors are spoilt for choice: windsurfing, kayaking, towed tubing, catamaran sailing, wakeboarding, waterskiing, stand-up paddleboarding, and more.
You can also join night-time canoe trips, a wonderful way to experience the lake’s beauty. Let yourself be carried away by the peaceful night-time atmosphere: quiet and enchanting, as if the lake were telling its thousand and one stories.
In summer, the beaches are a dream for holidaymakers, especially families. They hide the lake’s secluded coves, which can only be reached one way: by pedal boat. It is an activity that delights both adults and children, and a great chance to share fun moments whether you are with family or as a couple. Regular excursions are also organised to explore the site’s natural riches.
Fishing is another must-do activity on Lake Castillon. The lake is well known for its rich fish population, with a wide variety of species including mirror carp, zander, baitfish and gudgeon.
There are also plenty of hikes around Lake Castillon, a fun and sporty way to discover the surrounding heights and the full splendour of the area. As a reminder, the lake is bordered by mountain ranges and numerous valleys, making it an ideal destination for challenge seekers. Along the way, you can also see the statues and temples of the Mandarom sect.
Remember that the lake is bordered by the charming villages of Saint-André-les-Alpes and Saint-Julien-du-Verdon. The first is right on the water’s edge. The second is typically Provençal, perched on the hillside. Both offer stunning views over Lake Castillon.
Another place to discover is the village of Castellane. Located at the gateway to the Gorges du Verdon, it is full of character and known for its distinctive architecture. It is home to three unmissable landmarks: the Clock Tower, the Pentagonal Tower, and the Saint-Victor Church.