The best swimming spots in the Ardennes
Lake Vieilles Forges (Les Mazures)
Located in the heart of the Ardennes forest in the north of the department, this is the Ardennes’ must-visit spot. Lake des Vieilles Forges comprises a 1,000-hectare woodland area and a 150-hectare lake, and features a large, well-equipped beach with supervised swimming in season, ideal for families. Find out more.
A wide range of activities are available on site: pedalos, canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding, as well as an inflatable water park open from 31 May to 31 August, the Wi Splash, which is very popular with children and teenagers. The woodland setting enhances the site’s natural charm.
Lac de Bairon (Le Chesne)
Set in a stunning natural setting covering 120 hectares, Lake Bairon charms visitors with its peaceful atmosphere. A fine sandy beach has been created for swimming and is lifeguarded in July and August. The site is also popular for birdwatching and walks around the lake, making it the perfect place to combine relaxation with exploration.
Étang de la Samaritaine (Buzancy)
A little off the beaten track, the Samaritaine Pond offers a peaceful atmosphere, far from the busier spots. This 700-metre-long pond features a jetty, and lifeguards are on duty every afternoon during the summer season. The pond is particularly suitable for those looking for a quiet spot to cool off.
Lake Douzy
Lake Douzy is situated on the grounds of the Domaine du Lac campsite in Douzy, just 15 minutes from Sedan. It offers a beach accessible to all, with natural areas where you can relax by the water’s edge. During the summer season, swimming is supervised, ensuring a safe environment for families. At the leisure centre, you can enjoy water sports (for a fee), such as pedalos or canoeing and kayaking.
Lake Sedan
Close to the town, Lake Sedan is a convenient option for an easily accessible spot to cool off. The bathing area is organised around a developed beach, combining grassy spaces and relaxation areas, ideal for families to settle in. During the summer season, swimming is permitted and supervised, offering a reassuring environment for young and old alike. The site also offers a range of leisure activities, such as pedalos and canoeing and kayaking, allowing visitors to enjoy the water in a friendly atmosphere.
Lake Warenne (Charleville-Mézières)
Located in the Manchester district, Lake Warenne offers a leisure area close to the centre of Charleville-Mézières. The sandy beach provides the perfect setting to relax and enjoy a pleasant time with family or friends. The site offers a range of facilities for visitors’ comfort, including children’s play areas, picnic tables, barbecues, shaded benches and extensive wooded green spaces.
During the season, swimming is supervised. A wide range of equipment is available free of charge: balls, rackets, sun loungers and even canoes, paddleboards and pedalos. Not to mention a host of sporting activities organised by the sports department and local sports clubs. Fun guaranteed!
Pond la Motte (Signy-le-Petit)
In the heart of the Signy-le-Petit communal forest, Pond la Motte offers pleasant swimming in a lush green setting. The leisure centre features a beach (supervised in summer), games and water sports, perfect for a relaxing day in the great outdoors.
River swimming in the Ardennes
We have not identified any organised or natural swimming spots in the rivers of the French Ardennes.
There is, however, a wild swimming spot near Hautes-Rivières, but you’ll have to work for it!
For lovers of unspoilt nature, the Ours stream offers an original alternative. Accessible after a hike of around 10 kilometres, this wild spot provides an immersive experience in the heart of the Ardennes forest. Swimming here takes place in an unspoilt setting, with no facilities.
Campsites to enjoy the Ardennes’ swimming spots
Staying at a campsite in the Ardennes puts you within easy reach of the main swimming spots, whilst enjoying a stunning natural setting; some sites even boast an exceptional location right by the water’s edge, with direct access to lakes or leisure centres.
Among the 26 campsites in the Ardennes, the 4-star Lac des Vieilles Forges campsite stands out as a sure bet. It boasts a prime location right next to the lake and its beach.
It is an excellent base for enjoying water sports, the inflatable water park and the many forest walks. Combining nature, comfort and direct access to leisure activities, it is an ideal starting point for exploring the Ardennes.
Practical tips for swimming safely
Before going for a swim, it is important to check whether the area is supervised, particularly during the summer months. This is all the more essential when you are with children, who must always remain under close supervision, even in calm, shallow water.
It is also advisable to check the water quality, as certain areas may be subject to temporary bans. Finally, respect for the environment remains paramount: do not leave any rubbish behind, stay within authorised areas and protect the local flora and fauna.