
Best Summer Beach Destinations in Lyon, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France
1. Lake Annecy
Clear blue lake offering a sandy beach and water sports in the charming town of Annecy.
- Natural Beauty: Surrounded by mountains, it offers stunning views and opportunities for hiking.
- Water Activities: Popular for swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing.
- Family-Friendly: Family-oriented atmosphere with a designated sandy beach area.
2. Lake Bourget
Largest lake in France with pebble beaches and water sports facilities.
- Historic Town: Near the picturesque town of Aix-les-Bains, rich in Roman history.
- Wine Tasting: Close proximity to local vineyards for wine tasting experiences.
- Boat Tours: Offers boat tours and island visits for exploring the lake.
3. Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne Thermal Baths
Roman-era thermal bath complex with a modern beach area and natural hot springs.
- Wellness: Relaxing experience in the mineral-rich hot spring waters.
- Historical Significance: Ancient Roman architecture and archaeological remains to explore.
- Therapeutic Benefits: Reputed for its therapeutic properties, particularly for joint pain relief.
4. Lake Le Bourget
Small lake with a sandy beach, perfect for families and picnicking.
- Quiet Environment: Less crowded compared to larger lakes, offering tranquility.
- Picnic Spots: Well-maintained grassy areas for enjoying a picnic with family and friends.
- Nature Walks: Surrounded by forests, providing opportunities for nature walks.
5. Lac de Chalain
Peaceful lake with sandy beaches and a variety of water sports.
- Scenic Drive: Accessed through a picturesque drive along the Jura Mountains.
- Camping: Nearby campsites for an immersive lakeside experience.
- Fishing: Popular fishing spot with stocked fish for anglers.
6. Lac de Saint-Pierre
Pristine lake offering water sports and a sandy beach in the heart of nature.
- Wildlife Spotting: Abundant wildlife, including otters and beavers.
- Night Swimming: Offers night swimming under the stars.
- Hiking Trails: Surrounded by hiking trails for exploring the region.
7. Lac de Chambon
Quiet lake with a sandy beach and water sports facilities.
- Serenity: Less crowded, providing a peaceful and serene environment.
- Waterskiing: Popular for waterskiing and wakeboarding.
- Fishing Village: Near the charming fishing village of Chambon.
8. Lac de Grand-Lemps
Family-friendly lake with a sandy beach and water sports activities.
- Playgrounds: Well-equipped playgrounds for children.
- Watersports School: Offers watersports classes, including windsurfing and sailing.
- Restaurants: Numerous restaurants and cafes along the lakefront.
9. Lac de la Balme
Tranquil lake with a sandy beach and stunning mountain views.
- Mountain Scenery: Breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
- Beach Volleyball: Facilities for beach volleyball and other sports.
- Nature Reserve: Located within a natural reserve, offering opportunities for wildlife observation.
10. Lac de la Porte
Lively lake with a sandy beach and water sports facilities.
- Lakeside Events: Hosts various events, including concerts and festivals.
- Waterski Show: Regular waterski shows showcasing skilled skiers.
- Food Trucks: Food trucks offering a variety of local cuisines.
11. Lac de la Balaise
Scenic lake with a sandy beach and water sports opportunities.
- Scenery: Stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
- Pedalos and Kayaks: Offers pedalos, kayaks, and canoes for rent.
- Camping: Nearby campsites for extended stays.
12. Lac de Plan d'Eau
Picturesque lake with a sandy beach and water sports activities.
- Scenic Hike: Accessible via a scenic hike through the forest.
- Watersports School: Offers watersports classes, including windsurfing and wakeboarding.
- Restaurant on the Lake: A restaurant located right on the lake for dining with a view.
13. Lac de la Maubecte
Calm lake with a sandy beach and water sports facilities.
- Fishing: Popular spot for fishing, both from the shore or by boat.
- Watersports School: Provides watersports classes and equipment rentals.
- Restaurant on the Lake: A restaurant located right on the lake for dining with a view.
14. Lac de la Porte des Fees
Tranquil lake with a sandy beach and water sports opportunities.
- Scenic Drive: Accessed through a beautiful drive along the Dombes Regional Nature Park.
- Watersports School: Offers watersports classes and equipment rentals.
- Nature Observation: Ideal for birdwatching and observing the local wildlife.
15. Lac de la Fouconniere
Small lake with a sandy beach and water sports facilities.
- Serenity: A serene and peaceful environment for relaxation.
- Watersports School: Offers watersports classes, including windsurfing and wakeboarding.
- Farm Market: Nearby farm market for fresh local produce.