Swimming in the supervised lakes of the Ardèche
Lake Issarlès: beach facilities and water sports
Nestled at an altitude of 1,000 metres in an ancient volcanic crater, Lake Issarlès offers a beach with lifeguards in summer and a water sports centre for pedalos, canoes and paddleboards, in a preserved volcanic setting.
Saint-Martial Lake: family swimming
More intimate, Saint-Martial Lake offers a supervised beach during the summer season, with a diving pontoon, water games and shaded areas, ideal for families.
Lake Coucouron: a peaceful setting
This beautiful mountain lake has a small beach and a picnic area. Recommended for holidaymakers in the Monts d'Ardèche.
The most beautiful beaches in the Ardèche Gorges
The legendary Pont d'Arc beach (Ardèche Gorges)
An iconic symbol of the Ardèche Gorges, the Pont d'Arc beach in Vallon-Pont-d'Arc is a stunning spot with two swimming areas, one upstream and one downstream from the natural arch.
Opposite, in the commune of Salavas, the Pont de Salavas beach is a fine sandy beach that is supervised in summer.
The beaches of Saint-Martin-d'Ardèche
At the southern end of the gorges, Sauze beach marks the end of the canoe trip from Vallon-Pont-d'Arc. This supervised beach has been awarded the Blue Flag label.
Just opposite, the wider and shadier Grain de Sel beach in Saint-Martin-d'Ardèche is very popular in summer.
Beach at the Devil's Bridge in Thueyts, village of character
The spectacular volcanic setting of the beach with its stone bridge and white water make it an iconic spot in the Haut-Vivarais.
Rivers and swimming spots
Balazuc and Vogüé: swimming at the foot of the villages
Ranked among the most beautiful villages in France, Balazuc and Vogüé offer picturesque swimming spots. In Balazuc, a supervised beach in July and August welcomes swimmers at the foot of the medieval bridge. In Vogüé, the vast pebble beaches are close to the hanging houses.
The Ibie Valley: secret spots and unspoilt nature
Between Villeneuve-de-Berg and Vallon-Pont-d'Arc, the Ibie Valley reveals aquatic treasures such as the Trou de la Lune, a natural site with a white pebble beach, a refreshing waterfall and crystal-clear natural pools downstream.
The beaches of Berrias-et-Casteljau and Chassezac
Less crowded than those of the Ardèche gorges, the beaches along the Chassezac are appealing for their wild setting, nestled between the limestone cliffs of the Bois de Païolive.
Turbine Beach in Jaujac
From Jaujac, served by the Lignon River, the Turbine Beach is easily accessible on foot and features a large sandbank. It is followed by other riverbanks with pebbles (accessible by swimming or with water shoes) where you can also enjoy a refreshing swim. Find out more about this beach and the water quality on the Sources & Volcans website.
The beaches of northern Ardèche: swimming around the Doux and Eyrieux rivers
The north of the Ardèche, which is more hilly and green, also offers several places for swimming in rivers or lakes.
On the banks of the Eyrieux, pretty beaches, some of which are supervised, offer an alternative to the hustle and bustle of the south. In Les Ollières-sur-Eyrieux, you can swim in clear water, not far from the Eyrieux*** campsite (which has direct access to the beach). In Saint-Sauveur-de-Montagut, Fontugne beach is a popular spot with its vast expanse of pebbles and relaxing setting.
The Doux river winds its way between the mountains and offers secret spots to cool off, particularly around Boucieu-le-Roi.
Swimming in the Ardèche Verte: secret coves and unspoilt nature
For those who want to escape crowded beaches and seek authentic contact with nature, the Green Ardèche reveals a few discreet, often unmonitored swimming spots. Sites such as the Glueyre and Talaron valleys offer an authentic immersion.
Leisure centres and lakes in the Ardèche
Isla Cool Douce: an aquatic paradise
This leisure centre opposite the Cirque de Gens offers two sandy beaches and four supervised swimming pools. Activities include pedalos, stand-up paddleboarding and beach volleyball. The nearby Les Rives d'Arc**** campsite is the ideal place to stay to make the most of the site.
Clape beach, in Lavelade
Located on the banks of the Ardèche, Lalevade offers a beach with facilities and lifeguards in summer, surrounded by a wooded park. The Family des Issoux**** campsite also offers its guests privileged access to the riverbank. Find out more about this beach and the water quality on the Sources & Volcans website.
La Neuve beach, near Privas
In the commune of Lyas, at the gateway to the Monts d'Ardèche Regional Nature Park, the La Neuve bathing area is the only supervised and secure site in the Ouvèze valley.
Devesset Lake: a family-friendly lake in the heart of the Ardèche mountains
Located on the Ardèche plateau, Lake Devesset is a vast mountain lake surrounded by forests and equipped with a leisure centre. Very popular in summer, it offers a supervised beach, a canoeing area, paddleboarding and even sailing.
Discover other swimming spots on the Ardèche: other swimming spots on the official Ardèche tourism website.
Where to camp near swimming spots
Discover all the campsites located in the Ardèche Gorges from among nearly 300 campsites in Ardèche, all located less than 5 kilometres from a lake or river.
Along the Beaume River, the Les Ranchisses***** campsite offers privileged access to the natural pools of Labeaume, just a 300-metre walk away along a shaded path.
The Chassezac*** and Ranc Davaine***** campsites have a private beach on the Chassezac, ideal for family swimming.
The La Roubine***** and La Plage Fleurie***** campsites in Vallon-Pont-d'Arc and Le Clapas*** in Balarus have their own private beaches on the banks of the Ardèche.
In Sampzon, Le Soleil Vivarais***** offers a luxury setting with direct access to the river, perfect for enjoying the beaches of the Ardèche while benefiting from exceptional comfort.
Practical tips for safe swimming
Your safety is our top priority when you go swimming in the Ardèche. Choose supervised areas, follow the instructions and find out about water quality and local weather conditions. Remember to protect nature by taking your rubbish with you and keeping your dogs on a leash on the beaches. Finally, don't forget to check whether dogs are allowed to swim on these beaches, as this is not always the case.