The Four Lakes of Langres, Haute Marne
La Liez, Lac de Charmes, Lac de la Vingeanne, Lac de la Mouche
Oct 13, 2009
In the late 19th Century the Pays de Langres in Haute Marne, France was selected as the site for four manmade lakes needed to feed to Marne-Saone canal, which runs from Vitry le Francois to Maxilly sur Saone. The four lakes, located to the north, south, east and west of the town within easy day-tripping distance, have developed their own unique characters and identities over the years offering a unique experience to visitors.
Lac de la Liez
La Liez, as it is known locally, is arguably the most polished of the four lakes. While the lake is well established as a holiday destination for discerning French families, regeneration work in the mid 90s saw the construction of a dedicated marina and new purpose-built shoreside café/restaurant facilities. La Liez has a manmade beach a short distance from these leisure facilities and also boasts a lifeguard during the high season. The lake shore is home to a watersports school offering a selection of activities from windsurfing to waterskiing. Covering 290 hectares, the lake is visible from the ramparts of Langres, and offers a 16km hiking path that encircles the whole lake.
Lac de Charmes
The 197 hectare Lac de Charmes certainly lives up to its name, offering a chaming destination for a day out. The lake is calm and serene and is a favourite of local anglers, but visitors should be aware that some fishing permits are needed before casting can commence - the local tourist office can provide details. The lake has a small manmade beach, which swimmers are encouraged to use, while those who prefer to stay dry can rent pedalos or canoes on the shore to explore the unspoiled lake and undeveloped shore. Those seeking a true taste of France might visit the Le Petit Charme restaurant which sits at the end of the bridge where the road from Langres bisects the lake.
Lac de la Mouche
The smallest of the four lakes, Lac de la Mouche offers a unique experience to visitors. A 7km trail encircles the 97 hectares of lake, with opportunities to hike, cycle or even go horseriding around the route, which offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding countryside, whose hills are often beautifully reflected in the water’s surface
Lac de la Vingeanne
La Vingeanne, sometimes referred to by locals as the Lac de Villegusien, is perhaps the wildest of the four lakes, and as such is a great destination for nature lovers, especially bird watchers. The lake attracts many migrating species and ornithologists can take advantage of a purpose built observation post, or do some spotting en route while following the shore path which features information boards giving details of species likely to be seen in the area. A purpose-built beach is attended by a lifeguard in high season.
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
