In this article:
- Beaches and leisure centres with supervised swimming in Saône-et-Loire
- Lakes and bodies of water for swimming in the heart of nature
- Campsites near swimming spots in Saône-et-Loire
- Useful tips for swimming in Saône-et-Loire
Beaches and leisure centres with supervised swimming in Saône-et-Loire
To enjoy water-based activities with complete peace of mind, several beaches and leisure centres in Saône-et-Loire provide lifeguard supervision during the summer season. These well-equipped sites offer a pleasant setting for swimming, often complemented by water sports, relaxation areas or family-friendly facilities.
The water sports centre at the Laives lakes
Built on the site of a former gravel pit, the Laives Lakes Water Sports Centre is one of the main swimming spots in Saône-et-Loire. It comprises three bodies of water, one of which is designated for supervised swimming. Swimmers can enjoy a sandy beach and extensive grassy areas, whilst the other two lakes are mainly used for fishing. Lifeguards are on duty at weekends in June, then every day in July and August, all day until 6 pm. There is an entry fee, except for residents of Laives. The water sports centre also offers pedalos, stand-up paddleboards and kayaks for hire, as well as inflatable water attractions for a refreshing and fun time.
The Louvarel Leisure Centre
On the border of the Jura, the Louvarel Leisure Centre enjoys a pleasant natural setting in the heart of the Burgundian Bresse. Lake Louvarel, which is designated for swimming, is situated near another body of water reserved for fishing. The whole area is surrounded by a walking trail that allows visitors to enjoy the scenery and explore the lakes’ surroundings. Swimming is supervised in the afternoons during the summer, from 6 July to 30 August 2026, and entry is free.
The Sablons lake in Crêches-sur-Saône
Located near Mâcon, the Sablons lake features a gently sloping grassy beach, ideal for enjoying a family swim. Lifeguards are on duty from late June to late August, from late morning onwards, and there is an admission charge for the beach. In the Port d’Arciat area, water sports enthusiasts can enjoy the Wake Park and take part in activities such as wakeboarding, water skiing and other water sports on the lake.
The biotope lake at La Chapelle-Saint-Sauveur (closing in 2026)
Please note: the site will be closed in 2026. Check opening times before you visit.
Situated in the Burgundian Bresse region, the La Chapelle-Saint-Sauveur biotope lake offers a unique experience, with water naturally filtered through a regeneration zone comprising aquatic plants, without the use of chemicals. Fully integrated into its surroundings, it features grassy beaches where you can enjoy sunny days. The water in the lake is also oxygenated by jets, which add a fun element. Lifeguards are on duty during the season from late morning onwards.
Lakes for swimming in the heart of nature
Saône-et-Loire also boasts numerous lakes and bodies of water where you can swim in a more natural setting. With no lifeguard supervision, these sites offer equipped beaches, shaded areas, water sports or simply a chance to relax by the water’s edge: they provide an alternative way to enjoy sunny days in a calmer, unspoilt atmosphere.
Lake Saint-Point Lamartine in Saint-Point
© Maud HUMBERT / BFC Tourisme
Just a few kilometres from Cluny, Lake Saint-Point Lamartine offers an unspoilt natural setting, ideal for swimming and outdoor activities. Covering an area of around 10 hectares, this tranquil lake allows visitors to enjoy unsupervised freshwater swimming, as well as fishing or exploring the lake by pedalo.
The absence of motorised activities helps to preserve the tranquillity of the area, which is much appreciated by those seeking the pleasures of the water away from the hustle and bustle.
Lake Montaubry, Les Patins beach in Le Breuil
Spanning 128 hectares, Lake Montaubry offers a pleasant natural setting in which to enjoy summer days. Les Patins Beach is the designated swimming area (unsupervised), with a gentle slope making it ideal for families to enjoy the water. Visitors can also settle into the shaded areas by the lake’s edge to relax or have a picnic.
Water sports enthusiasts can make the most of the lake with their own equipment. Water skiing is also practised on the lake, but this activity is restricted to club members in 2026. However, swimming is prohibited in the area reserved for water sports.
Lake Torcy Neuf in Torcy
In the heart of southern Burgundy, a stone’s throw from Le Creusot, Lake Torcy Neuf covers 120 hectares and is a major centre for water sports in Burgundy. Approved for international rowing competitions, it regularly hosts national events. Swimming, which is unsupervised, is permitted from the lake’s banks and the jetties. Water sports enthusiasts can also enjoy the lake by paddleboarding or canoeing.
For nearly three weeks in July, Festiv’Été brings the water sports centre to life three afternoons a week with a wide range of activities on the waterfront and on the lake, such as rowing taster sessions and inflatable attractions.
Berthaud Pond in Saint-Eusèbe
Situated between Le Creusot and Montceau-les-Mines, Berthaud Pond covers 50 hectares in a lush green setting. Like the lakes at Montaubry and Torcy, it is one of the reservoirs that feed the Canal du Centre. Today, it features a sandy beach ideal for unsupervised swimming, as well as numerous shaded areas popular with families.
Discover all the swimming spots in Le Creusot Montceau.
Campsites near swimming spots in Saône-et-Loire
With nearly 70 campsites in Saône-et-Loire, the department offers a range of holiday options near lakes and leisure centres where you can go for a swim. Some sites are even just a few minutes’ walk from a lake or leisure centre. We particularly recommend the following two campsites, situated right by the water:
Domaine de Louvarel in Champagnat
Situated just a few metres from the beach on Lake Louvarel, the Domaine de Louvarel*** allows guests to make the most of the beach. With direct access to the lake and the leisure centre, holidaymakers stay right next to the water sports and relaxation areas available around the lake.
Camping du Lac in Saint-Point
Situated right on the shores of Lake Saint-Point Lamartine, the Camping du Lac**** enjoys a prime location for those who love refreshing breaks by the water and water sports. Holidaymakers can easily head to the lake to swim, fish or hire a pedalo, whilst enjoying an unspoilt natural setting.
Useful tips for swimming in Saône-et-Loire
Before heading to a swimming spot in Saône-et-Loire, remember to check opening times, lifeguard duty periods and any temporary restrictions.
Water quality is monitored regularly during the summer season. In the event of a temporary deterioration in water quality, swimming may be temporarily prohibited at certain sites: it is therefore advisable to check the latest information before your visit.
At water bodies where swimming is permitted but unsupervised – or outside the lifeguard hours at other beaches – please remain particularly vigilant, especially with children. Follow the instructions displayed on site and respect any restricted areas.
Also remember to help preserve these natural areas by adopting good habits: take your rubbish away with you, treat the facilities provided with respect, and take care not to disturb the wildlife or the peace and quiet of the area.