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39 Extraordinary public swimming pools In France you need to visit

A curated list of extraordinary and beautiful aquatic centers and public French swimming pools in France where you can do some laps, escape the heat or mingle with the locals for a few euros.

Did you know that swimming is the second most popular sports activity and pastime in France, after hiking, according to a study by Statista?  

Every year, millions of people in France flock to one of the thousands of public swimming pools located in cities and towns across France, and you can too for just a few euros. 

French towns usually have at least one public pool for their residents. Bigger cities have multiple public pools, such as Paris, which has an impressive 39 public swimming pools.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at 39 extraordinary and beautiful public French swimming pools in France that are open to the public. So, let’s dive in!

If you’re visiting a city in France not on this list, you can search for local pools by location, size, price, etc. Here’s the link.  www.guide-piscine.fr/guide-des-piscines/ , 

For this list, I handpicked public pools and aquatic centres in France that I think stand out from the rest.

• Some are historical sites that date back to the early 1900s with interesting period architecture.
• Others are in breathtaking locations with spectacular views.
• A handful of these French pools are modern architectural marvels with that ‘je ne sais quoi”.
• And some are so chock-full of amenities: they seem more like an aquatic amusement park than they do a public pool. 

How to day swimming pool in French

  piscine {Pi-Seen} = Pool or swimming pool piscine municipale {Pi-Seen Muu-Nee-see-Pal} =  public swimming pool. 

RELATED : mushroom foraging, which can get a little dangerous.

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Public Pools in France are better than you think, but…

Although the public swimming pools on this list are extraordinary (relatively speaking), remember to set your expectations. Public pools in France generally meet or exceed my expectations in one way or another. That’s not to say that every municipal pool in France is picture-perfect.

If you’re up for swimming with locals in a pool that stands out from the rest, then read on.

If you’re looking for a serene, five-star swimming experience with still water in a quiet spa-like environment, it’s unlikely to happen at a French public pool.

Tips about public pools in France

• Because of the low entry fee (a few Euros) and popularity, public pools in France can get crowded and loud. Especially in larger cities, in warmer months and during children’s school holiday breaks . Crowds mean more dirt.
• Don’t assume a pool is open. Check pool schedules and hours. Some pools close during the winter and or summer for maintenance or other reasons.
• Public pools usually cost anywhere from two to eight euros, depending on the facility and the location. If there are saunas or workout rooms, those will cost a little extra.
• Swimming caps are always required. (bonnet de piscine)
• Only certain types of swimming suits are allowed in French public pools. Board shorts are usually not acceptable. (see the photo above of acceptable swimming attire. )

Swimming Pools In Paris

Let’s start this list with my top 10 Parisian public pools either for their beauty or unique features and amenities. 

1) Piscine Pontoise (Paris)

Address : 19 Rue de Pontoise, 75005 Paris, France.  5th arrondissement in the Latin quarter close to boulevard Saint-Germain. www.paris.fr/equipements/piscine-pontoise-2918

If this pool looks familiar, it’s because Lucien Pollet, the same architect who designed the Molitor pool, also designed this pool— constructed in 1934, 4 years after the Molitor.

This lovely 33m pool is set inside a stunning art-deco building. Its enormous glass ceiling and mosaic frescoes are flanked by two mezzanine levels with vintage changing cabins. And like the Molitor, this pool is a historical monument. The downside is that there is only one pool, so this pool can get quite crowded. It’s also in a popular location near the Notre Dame Cathedral. 

Pay a few euros more, and you can use the sauna, squash court, cardio room, and fitness courses. Or go during “nocturne,” night swimming to music from 8 pm to midnight on certain nights, for 11,10 €.

2) Piscine Pailleron (Paris)

Address: 32 rue Edouard Pailleron, 75019 www.pailleron19.com/  

Designed by Lucien Pollen, the same designer of the Molitor and Pontoise pools

Located in the 19th arrondissement of Paris, next to the trendy Buttes Chaumont park is the Pailleron pool nestled inside a charming historic red brick building with an art deco interior.

There is a two-level mezzanine with vintage individual changing cabins.  The pool opened in 1933 but was abandoned in 1998. Following a few years of restoration, it reopened in 2006 with a new integrated sports complex. The filtered light that comes through the glass roof gives the pool lots of natural light. In the summer, the pool opens its lawn area, where you can see French families and couples tanning on towels.

3) Piscine Hébert (Paris)

The secret art deco pool in Paris

Addressee: 2 rue des Fillettes 18e Paris www.paris.fr/equipements/piscine-hebert-2943 

One of the best-kept aquatic secrets in Paris is the Hébert pool, hidden behind the Marx Dormay metro station across from a small wooded square in the 18th arrondissement. This pool is far away from the busy Paris center, so it’s usually quiet and calm, unlike many other more popular pools around Paris.

The pool opened in 1896 as a sort of bathhouse fed and heated by artesian wells but was completely renovated in 1990. Its two swimming pools measure 25m x 12m and 12m x 12m and are well-lit thanks to the buildings’ modern solarium design and the roof that opens up.

At just 3,50 € per entry, it’s an affordable way to get some laps in if you’re near the 18th arrondissement.

4) Piscine Roger le Gall (Paris)

Care to go skinny dipping in Paris?  

Address : 34 boulevard Carnot 75012 PARIS (12th arrondissement) www.paris.fr/equipements/piscine-roger-le-gall-2950 

The Roger Le Gall Swimming Pool might seem like your run-of-the-mill pool, but what sets this pool apart is that you can skinny-dip here.

Three nights a week, the l’Association des naturistes de Paris (Paris Naturist Association) offers nude swimming at this pool.

If this sounds appealing to you and you want to go skinnydipping, show up with 10 Euros and your birthday suit. If your18 to 26, it’s only 5 euros. Got kids under 18? Bring them; they can swim in the buff for free as long as a paying adult accompanies them.

Although swimming in the nude is open to people of all ages and gender, there is typically more males than females. Typical!

Nudists swim nights: Monday,  Wednesday and Friday  (9 p.m.-11 p.m.) Check the nature club website as times and days may change. French site: naturistes-paris.fr/adhesion-et-visites/tarifs/

5) Paris Plages Bassin de la Villette (Paris)

The other Paris Beach you didn’t know about.

Address: Bassin de la Villette 75019 Paris, France www.en.parisinfo.com/discovering-paris/major-events/paris-plages  

Most visitors to Paris know about the Paris plage (Paris beach), a temporary artificial beach along the river Seine open from July to September. But did you know there’s a second Paris beach on the outskirts of Paris in the 19th arrondissement on the Quay de la Marne?

Le Bassin de la Villette is a set of 3 pools that jut out of the Quay on an artificial lake that connects the humanmade canals de l’Ourcq and Saint Martin. The pools vary in depth to accommodate both children, adult swimmers, and people with reduced mobility.

6) Piscine des Amiraux pool (Paris)

You may recognize piscine des amiraux (the admiral’s pool) immortalized in the French cult film “Amélie.”

Address : 6 Rue Hermann-Lachapelle, 75018 Paris, France www.paris.fr/equipements/piscine-des-amiraux-2944 

Designed by Henry Sauvage, the pool dates back to the 1920s. Monsieur Sauvage also invented the stepped building where the higher floors are set back like a step to give room for each tenant to have an open terrace. At the centre of the apartment building is where he put the municipal swimming pool.

In 2017, the pool closed but opened after two years and a 9.7 million euro restorative facelift. The restoration maintained the original Art Deco design’s integrity, including the double mezzanine levels surrounding the pool with individual changing cabins — a design feature in many older Art Deco pools.

7) Piscine Georges Vallerey formerly Piscine Les Tourelles (Paris)

The 1924 Olympics was the first pool to use the standard 50 m pool with marked lanes.

Address : 148 Avenue Gambetta, 75020 Paris, France. 20th arrondissement https://www.vallerey-piscine.fr  

Built for the 1924 Olympics, Piscine Les Tourelles was also the first Olympics to use the standard 50m pool with marked lanes, which we now call an Olympic-sized pool.

In 1989, the pool was renovated and reopened as piscine Georges Valley, although it’s often referred to by its original name. Sunbathers can get a tan when the weather permits, thanks to the retractable plexiglass roof added as part of the renovation.

8) Piscine de la Butte-aux-Cailles (Paris)

It feels like you’re swimming in a cathedral.

Address: 5 place Paul Verlaine, 75013 Paris. 13th arrondissement www.paris.fr/equipements/piscine-de-la-butte-aux-cailles-2927 

Housed inside a beautiful red brick building and registered as a historical monument is the Butte-aux-Cailles pool. The pool sits on top of an artesian well dug in 1893 and was initially a public shower and bathhouse before becoming a public swimming pool in 1924.

Piscine de la Butte-aux-Cailles is one of the oldest swimming pool in Paris and France.

There are three pools: two 25m by 12m exterior pools and a 33m indoor pool. Swimming in the interior pool, with its art deco high vaulted roof supported by several concrete parabolic arches, is like swimming in a white cathedral.  The water temperature is kept warm thanks to the natural sulphurous spring, roughly 28°C.

9) La piscine Joséphine Baker (Paris)

Swim on the Seine river in a pool named after a famous Parisian transplant: American singer and actress

Address : Quai François Mauriac, 75013 Paris, France www.piscine-baker.fr/  

Take a walk down the Seine river towards the François Mitterrand library in the 13th arrondissement, and you’ll come across a floating pool that stands out from other Parisian public pools on this list. This impressive glass and steel barge created by architect Robert de Busni has a retractable glass roof and floats on the Seine river.

Due to its location and visibility, it is extremely popular (especially during the summer) and is often jam-packed with Parisians looking to enjoy an open-air swim, a workout in the fitness rooms, or to relax in the sunrooms, saunas, jacuzzi or hammam.

There’s also a wading pool where children love to splash around while parents watch. The pools are open all year round, and with an admission price of 4 Euros for visitors,  this is a great place to add to your Paris bucket list.

10) Piscine Château-Landon (Paris)

Address : 31 R. du Château Landon, 75010 Paris, France www.paris.fr/equipements/piscine-chateau-landon-2923

The Château-Landon was the first pool built in Paris that was also covered and heated. It dates back to 1884 and was initially a public shower and bathhouse before becoming a public swimming pool. It’s now one of the oldest pools in France. 

Around 1925, it went through some renovations and was redesigned in the classic Art Deco liner. It has two mezzanine levels with private cabins which flank the 25 by 10 meters covered pool and a second learning pool of 10m 6 m pool. The high ceiling with glass windows lets in plenty of light and makes the space feel lofty and bright. 

MONTPELLIER

Montpellier, located in southwestern France, is the 7th largest city in terms of population. It’s also one of the fastest-growing cities with the youngest population in all of France. It might be the closest thing you get to a college town. It’s also where I’ve lived since 2016 with my family.

11) Piscine Olympique d ‘Antigone (Montpellier)

Address : 195 Avenue Jacques Cartier, 34000 Montpellier, France https://www.montpellier3m.fr/equipement/piscine-olympique-dantigone-montpellier

Piscine Olympique d ‘Antigone is my favourite pool on this list, but I’m biased because this is the public pool we use regularly, and it’s where my daughter took synchronized swimming classes.

Piscine Olympique d ‘Antigone is a modern bi-level sports complex (called POA by the locals). It’s big and bright thanks to its retractable roof and glass enclosure.

There’s an Olympic-sized swimming pool dedicated to serious swimmers and swimming clubs like the polo team and my daughter’s synchronized swimming team. There’s also a jacuzzi and a fun recreational pool with a giant slide where people congregate to talk and kids splash around very loudly.

A full-price adult entrance fee is 5.20 €, or you can get a family pass for 13.20 € (2 adults +2 children). There are also aquatic classes and activities open to the general public for an additional fee. 

Issy-les-Moulineaux 

Issy-les-Moulineaux is a suburb of Paris, just 6km from Eglise Notre Dame, considered km zero of France .

12) Piscine Aqua Zena (Issy-les-Moulineaux )

Possibly the only Zen Feng Sui public pool in France

Address: 140-144, Promenade du verger 92130 Issy-les-Moulineaux www.aquazena-issy.fr/  

Unlike Paris’s art deco pools, the Aqua Zena pool is a very modern experience with recessed rounded skylights and rounded corners. It’s got an almost retro 1960s feel to it. Mikou Design Studio designed this 14.5 million Euro Piscine du Fort structure in 2014.

They engaged Feng shul specialist Laurence Dujardin to guide them in understanding Feng shul’s Chinese philosophical system. Their water in the swimming pools is ozone-treated, so there’s no chlorine smell.

A full-price adult ticket costs 4,70€. You can also buy a day pass, which gives you access to everything- the fitness centre, solarium, squash courts, sauna, and hammam. Hungry? Have a bite in the cafeteria.

The perfect day trip from Paris is Creil, a short 25-minute train ride. 

13)  la piscine de Creil

Address : 1 Rue de la République, 60100 Creil, France www.creil.fr/equipements-sportifs  

Another art deco pool was inaugurated in 1926. The Creil pool was initially modelled after the Parisian pools Butte-aux-Cailles (1923) and Stade Nautique des Tourelles (1924).

During WW2, the pool was heavily damaged during air raids and bombings, but it was rebuilt in 1963. Over the years, the facilities became dilapidated and out of date, so it was given another update in 2013. The result is a modern pool with updated facilities, and art deco touches.

For a mere 4,30 €, visitors can swim in the beautiful 25m pool or splash around in the fun pool with water jets where you have a view overlooking the Oise River thanks to the glass windows. For an extra 4,30 €, take advantage of the sauna and hammam.

 Biarritz

In the heart of Basque Country, Biarritz , just 40 minutes from the Spanish border, offers visitors a unique atmosphere. Known for its thriving surf scene, beaches, and therapeutic water, it’s a place where posh restaurants and spas live side by side, lowbrow pizza joints and surf shops.

14) Piscine Municipale (Biarritz)

Address : Boulevard du Général de Gaulle, 64200 Biarritz, France www.tourisme.biarritz.fr/  

An indoor pool with huge bay windows overlooking the beach

For a few Euros, swimmers can dip their toes in one of two heated indoor sea-water pools in an elegant art deco building. Swimmers can also relax on the indoor decks in front of the large bay windows, where you’ll have a view of the beach on the Bay of Biscay.

Aix en Provence

Does Aix en Provence even need a description? 

15) Piscine Yves Blanc (Aix en Provence)

Address : 26 Avenue des Écoles Militaires, 13100 Aix-en-Provence, France www.agglo-paysdaix.fr/

Peter Mayle (RIP) never mentions the Yves Blanc public pool in his book “A Year in Provence.” However, it’s worth visiting this newly renovated complex, which features a 50m eight-lane outdoor pool under a retracting roof with stadium seating and a smaller 25m indoor pool. There’s also a wading pool for the little ones right outside the building.

You have to see it to believe it. Check out this video showing the pool and building modifications. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RQe71HuOtGM

Out of the six public pools in Bordeaux, France’s ninth-largest city , two stand out.

16) La piscine de Bègles (Bordeaux)

Address : Rue Carnot, 33130 Bègles, France   https://www.mairie-begles.fr/les-bains/

Situated in a 1932 art deco building in Bordeaux, France, is a 25m swimming pool with hammam and patio. You can also practice climbing or biking in a grassy landscaped area. And if you’re hungry, grab a quick bite at the restaurant/tea room.

17) La piscine Judaïque (Bordeaux)

Address : 164 Rue Judaïque, 33000 Bordeaux, France www.bordeaux.fr/o213/piscine-judaique  

Guys, bring your speedos here. No joke!

For 5.05 euros, you can swim in one of 2 pools at the Judaique pool in Bordeaux, hidden behind a giant concrete portico of a former riding school dating back to the 1800s.

By contrast, the interior is very modern, open and light.

The retractable roof and glass wall, which divides the two pools, can open up, giving the illusion that both pools are side by side outdoors.

This pool has a reputation for being extremely strict about its bathing suit policy, specifically for men. Many male reviewers have complained that they were asked to exit the pool because they were not wearing speedo-type swimming trunks.

Lyon, France’s third-largest city in terms of population, has 11 public pools, but there’s one that stands out from the rest because of its location, view, and amenities. This pool is a victim of its success. 

18) Centre Nautique Tony Bertrand formerly La Piscine du Rhône (Lyon)

Swimming on the Rhone River

Address: 8 quai Claude Bernard, 69007 Lyon France www.lyon.fr/node/29554  

In the heart of Lyon on the left bank of the Rhone River is le centre Nautique Tony Bertrand, also known by its former name piscine du Rhône.  This pool gets extremely popular, especially during the warmer months when many Lyonnais locals complain of waiting up to an hour to gain entry. 

Once inside, it’s worth the wait. The open-air outdoor pools give you a spectacular view of the city and the Rhone River. There’s a 50m Olympic size pool for laps. A huge 168m x 24 m pool sectioned off to give swimmers a fun slide area, a wading area with water jets for kids, and a larger space for splashing around. 

The centre is open all year round, and the price of regular admission is 3.40 euros, while locals pay 2.60 euros. Definitely worth a visit, especially if you have kids or want to get in some laps to burn off all those croissants you ate.

Like Strasbourg, Rennes, Brittany’s capital city in northwest France, is known for its traditional half-timbered houses.

19) Saint-Georges pool  (Rennes)

Bark at the moon while swimming in an art deco pool

Classified as a historical art deco monument is Renne’s first swimming pool, which opened in 1925.

It was designed by Architect Emmanuel Le Rayhe, who based his design on the Butte-aux-Cailles pool built in 1923 as well as the pool in the Nancy thermal complex, built-in 1904.

20) Les Bains municipaux de Strasbourg

It’s like swimming in a museum

Address : 10 Boulevard de la Victoire, 67000, Strasbourg, France

¤¤update: this pool was closed in June of 2018 for renovations which will take several years.  https://www.strasbourg.eu

A visit to Les Bains municipaux de Strasbourg (the bathhouse of Strasbourg) is like swimming in an ancient ruin or museum.

First inaugurated in 1908, it’s considered one of the oldest bath complexes in the world.  It features two swimming pools, Roman baths, a sauna (previously the medicinal baths), a steam room, and marble pools at different temperatures.

This splendour sits inside a beautiful neo-Romanesque style building, listed as a historical monument since 2000.

Unfortunately, the pools are very rundown but are due for a complete renovation and will likely be transformed into a well-being centre.

Lingolsheim

Lingolsheim is a suburb of Strasbourg you might not have heard of, but this refreshing pool should be on your list.

21) Piscine de Lingolsheim

Address : 15 Rue de Normandie, 67380 Lingolsheim, France www.strasbourg.eu/lieu/-/entity/sig/406_SPO_7  

Swimming in a sunflower pool (Piscine tournesol) that looks like a spaceship

photo © Jean Baptiste Dorner, Communauté Urbaine de Strasbourg

The pool in Lingolsheim, a banlieue of Strasbourg, is one of 183 prefabricated pools built in the late ’70s and early 80’s called Les piscines tournesols (sunflower pools).

Some say it looks like a UFO, while others think it looks like a mushroom. Either way, the sunflower pool has a place in history; many French adults and children learned to swim in a sunflower pool. Unfortunately, half of the original 183 sunflower pools have either been destroyed or fallen in disrepair and abandoned.

A few lucky ones, like this one, have been beautifully restored.  It’s like swimming in a spaceship.

There are 12 municipal pools in Toulouse, including the largest outdoor pool in France and Europe.

22) Alfred Nakache summer and winter pools (Toulouse)

Home to the largest outdoor pool in France and Europe.

Address : 31400 Allée Gabriel Biénès, 31400 Toulouse, France www.toulouse.fr/web/sports/piscines/nakache-ete

There are two pools set on 1.85 acres (7,500 square meters) at a swimming centre called Piscine du parc des sports Alfred Nakache. It’s located on the small island of  Ramier in the middle of the Garonne River in Toulouse and it was named after the French Olympic swimmer and water polo player born in Algeria. One outdoor pool is open in the summer, and the other indoor pool is open in the winter.

Nakache été (summer) 

Nakache été (Nakache summer), first inaugurated in 1931, is a whopping 150m (492 ft) long and 48 m (157 ft) wide; it’s the largest outdoor pool in France and Europe.

At the far end of the été pool is a man-made Grotte (cave) with a cascading waterfall made of lava from Mount Vesuvius, now listed as a historical monument.

The pool area also features four picnic areas, two paved beach areas for swimmers to sunbathe, and various sports activities such as outdoor volleyball. This pool is extremely popular during the summer months. It gets incredibly crowded as people try to cool down in the hot Toulouse weather.

Nakache hiver (winter)

The Nakache winter swimming pool was built in 1934 and is set inside a remarkable art deco building that’s been classified as a historic monument.

The pool is only open during the summer months. During the winter months, swimmers can head next door to the Nakache hiver (Nakache winter). It features a 25 m and 16 m pool enclosed in a building with Art Deco touches.

Thonon-Les-Bains

Thonon-Les-Bains is an adorable spa town situated on the edge of Lake Geneva.

23) Plage Municipal (Thonon-Les-Bains)

Swim on lake Geneva

Address : Quai de Ripaille,74200 Thonon-Les-Bains www.ville-thonon.fr/165-piscine.htm  

Another outdoor pool overlooking a body of water is a pool called Plage municipal (public beach), located in Thonon-Les-Bain, an hour from Geneva, Switzerland on Lake Geneva (French: lac Léman).

There are three superb full-size swimming pools enclosed in a grassy park with plenty of trees. There’s a smaller pool for diving: a shallower children’s pool and an Olympic size pool which sits right on Lake Geneva. There’s also a fantastic 100 Metre long slide that winds itself through the park around the pools.

A standard entry is 4.50 euros, but locals pay 3.50, and children under three are free.

Dieppe is a fishing port on the Normandy coast of northern France.

24) Les Bains (Dieppe)

Swim with a view of a 1000-year-old castle

Address : 101 Boulevard de Verdun, 76200 Dieppe, France www.lesbainsdedieppe.fr/  

Dieppe’s swimming complex is located right off the beach with AMAZING views of Château de Dieppe, a restored castle founded in 1188. The complex features two 50m seawater pools, one indoor and one outdoor pool.

Chamonix, known for its fantastic skiing, is a French resort city nestled at the foot of Mont Blanc. It also shares a border with Switzerland and Italy

25) Centre Sportif Richard Bozon (Chamonix)

The hills are alive with swimmers.

Address : 214 Avenue de la Plage, 74400 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, France www.cc-valleedechamonixmontblanc.fr/ 

The Centre Sportif Richard Bozon in Chamonix is a multipurpose sports complex with a lot to offer.

It features a 25m indoor pool, a play pool with a waterfall, river rapids, water jets, a 130m covered water slide, a solarium, a jacuzzi and a hammam. The 50m outdoor pool gives you breathtaking views of rocky mountains tipped with snow and is open from June to September while the indoor pool is open all year round.

Prices are steeper here at 7 euros for adults and 5 for kids. 

Hyerès

A city on the French Riviera and one of my favourite outdoor pools. 

26) Complexe Aquatique-Piscine (Hyères Les Palmiers)

It’s the French Riviera.

Address : 37 ave Ambroise Thomas 83400 Hyères France http://www.ville-hyeres.fr/agenda/complexe-aquatique-piscine  

I had to include a pool from the French Riviera because, well, it’s the Riviera. I also lived here with my children and husband for almost five years before moving to Montpellier.

Getting to this pool can be a little complicated. You need a car, or you need to take the bus. There is no tram or metro in town. There are three main pools, including an Olympic outdoor pool, a 25m indoor pool, and a 12.5m kids pool. There’s also a 21m long slide, a fun pool area with a jacuzzi, hydro-massage jets, massage benches, and a paddling pool. For a few euros extra, you can use the Hammam and Sauna.

I can’t prove this, but my husband used to swim at this pool quite often and said that women often took their tops off in the outdoor lap pool.

Only on the Riviera.

27) Les Bains des Docks (Le Havre)

A futuristic modern pool.

Address : Quai de la Réunion, 76600 Le Havre, France www.vert-marine.info/lesbainsdesdocks/  

Inspired by Roman baths, Le Bains des Docks is a vast complex of 10 indoor and outdoor pools of varying sizes, including an Olympic-sized pool.

Once inside, straight, boxy designs painted white surround you. It feels and looks very futuristic.

28) L’Odyssée  (Chartres)

France’s largest aquatic centre, Europe’s largest wave pool and largest running river pool.

Address : Rue du Médecin Général Beyne, 28000 Chartres, France www.vert-marine.info/odyssee/  

Opened : September 25, 2009

What sets this place apart is its size and amenities. One look around the Complexe Aquatique de l’Odyssée, and you might think you’re in an oasis aquatic park. 

Largest aquatic centre in France

 With over 5000 sq. Meters of surface water, it’s the largest aquatic centre in France. There are not one but two Olympic-sized pools where swimmers can swim laps to their heart’s content.

Europe’s largest wave pool and running river pool

Visitors can float along Europe’s largest wave pool, immerse themselves in Europe’s largest running river, or jettison down one of several slides. There is also an outdoor lagoon and wading pools for the kiddies to splash around. During the summer, the outdoor volleyball and man-made beach areas are quite popular with families and couples, especially when the temperatures start to rise.

There’s a sauna, a hammam, and a relaxing spa with massaging jets for those who want more of a spa experience.

Like many public pools, there is an assortment of swimming classes for kids and adults offered throughout the year, including scuba diving classes. A full-price entry for one adult is around 7 euros. 

Watch this video; your kids will beg you to take them here.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0o0qyPY9K4U

Limoge is a city in Southcentral France on the Vienne River, most famous for its Limoge porcelain dolls and industry since the 18th century.

29) Centre Aquatique Aquapolis (Limoges)

Address : 359 Rue Aristide Briand, 87100 Limoges, France https://www.vert-marine.info/aquapolis/  

Like the aquatic centre in Chartes, the Limoge Aquatic Centre is like a big aquatic amusement centre. 

It has a beautiful Olympic sports pool, a 25m learning and activity Pool with a moving floor, Lagunas, slides, a 3-level diving pit, workout rooms, a man-made pool river, classes, and more. 

Sainte-Radegonde

If you’re ever in the Loire Valley, this place is like the Disneyland of pools. 

30) Les Bassins du Thouet (Sainte-Radegonde)

Address : Rue Raoul Follereau, 79100 Sainte-Radegonde, France www.bassins-du-thouet.fr/horaires-tarifs

Made for a new generation, the aquatic centre in Sainte-Radegonde is another giant aquatic complex. Besides a huge indoor and outdoor pool, there are play pools, a 25m Nordic pool, slides, a sauna, a jacuzzi, a workout room, a hammam and aquatic classes.

The basic entry fee for one adult is 5 euros. You’ll pay extra to use the sauna, hammam, workout room, and classes. 

Villenave d’Ornon

 Villenave d’Ornon is the fourth-largest suburb of Bordeaux. 

31) Piscine Olympique (Villenave d’Ornon)

Address : 145 Route de Léognan, 33140 Villenave-d’Ornon, France https://www.villenavedornon.fr/culture-sport-loisirs/piscine-olympique-municipale/  

This large complex has an eight-lane Olympic-sized swimming pool, several smaller pools, a solarium & sauna and plenty of classes. They claim to be able to accommodate up to 1072 bathers simultaneously.

Bruay-La-Buissière

32) piscine salengro (bruay-la-buissière).

The only outdoor Art Deco pool in France.

Address : 716 Rue Augustin Caron, 62700 Bruay-la-Buissière, France http://bruaylabuissiere.fr/index.php/piscine-art-deco/  

Constructed in the 1930s, this stadium-park and swimming pool in northern France is one of the few remaining outdoor art deco pools still existing in France. It’s also a world heritage site.

It’s also one of the few public pools in France where swimming caps are not mandatory.

Saint-Martin-Vésubie

Saint-Martin-Vésubie is a small picturesque village located 1000 meters above sea level, roughly two hours north of Nice and Cannes. 

33) Vesúbia Mountain Park (Saint-Martin-Vésubie)

A family’s indoor paradise, rain or shine.

Address: Allée du Dr Fulconis, 06450 Saint-Martin-Vésubie, France Vesubia-mountain-park.fr/Acces-Libre-Espace-Aquatique_77_82_97.html

The Vésubia Mountain Park activity center is a must-visit, especially if you want to go somewhere truly unique with the kids. The aquatic area features a 25 m pool, outdoor beach area, sunroom, hydro-massage bench, massage nozzle and paddling pool for the little ones. Access to the pool area is around 6 euros for an adult and 4 for children up to age 12. 

You can try indoor rock climbing, indoor zipline, and even indoor canyoning and spelunking for an additional fee.  Prices for these extra activities vary but expect to pay around 12 euros per hour. 

Mérignac

34) stade nautique (mérignac).

Address : 68 Avenue du Truc, 33700 Mérignac, France www.merignac.com/equipement/stade-nautique-jean-badet  

The 50m x 15m pool is under an interesting bubble tench, making the pool bright but keeping the direct sunlight out. There is also a small 25m x 10m pool, a paddling pool for children from 1 to 6 years, and a diving pit (these 2 activities are only available in summer). There’s a sauna for adults and children, and if you’re hungry, head over to the restaurant open for lunch from Tuesday to Saturday. 

Outdoor Seawater Pools On the Beach

Can’t make up your mind between swimming in the sea or a swimming pool? Dive into one of several open-air seawater pools (piscine d’eau de Mer ) dug out of France’s beaches on the Atlantic coast.

These pools were all built back in the late ’20s and ’30s, so swimmers could enjoy swimming in the sea even when the tide was out. The sea retreats very far out on the beaches in Northern France. 

If you read Anthony Doerr‘s novel, “All the light we cannot see, you probably know a little something about Saint-Malo- a walled medieval port city in Brittany.

If not, you should read the book. I bought the audible version. Sign up and get 30 days of membership free. You’ll receive 1 audiobook and 2 Audible Originals of your choice to get you started. After trial, you’ll get 3 titles each month: 1 audiobook and 2 Audible Originals of your choice for $14.95/month

Winner of the 2015 Andrew Carnegie Medal for Excellence in Fiction and the 2015 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction. It's about a blind French girl and a German boy whose paths collide in occupied France as both try to survive World War II devastation. The girl and her father flee Nazi-occupied Paris to her uncle's house in the walled citadel of Saint-Malo.

35) La piscine Bon-Secours (Saint-Malo)

Address : 6 Rue de la Crosse, 35400 Saint-Malo, France www.saint-malo-tourisme.com/  

Directly on the Bon-Secour beach in Saint-Malo is a  5500 sq. Metre outdoor seawater pool. Inaugurated in 1937 by then-mayor M René, the swimming pool is open 24 hours a day, and it’s free.

Saint-Malo has one of the world’s most significant tidal changes, so the water in the pool changes up to twice a day at each tide. In comparison, seawater in the nearby sea pool in Dinard refreshes only on higher tides.

Check out this video and watch the kids dive right into the water.  (start watching from 47 seconds)

36) La piscine d’eau de mer de la Porte d’Émeraude (Dinard)

The seawater pool of the Emerald Gate

Address : 4 Prom. des Alliés, 35800 Dinard, France

The seawater pool in Dinard is located just 20 minutes from Saint-Malo and also has a diving platform.

37) Seawater pool on Prieuré beach (Dinard)

Address : 23 Avenue du Général Giraud, 35800 Dinard, France

Dinard has a second outdoor seawater pool on the beach. Just 21 minutes south of the seawater pool on Ecluse beach is a much quieter beach, Plage du Prieuré.  Less is known about this particular pool, but you’ll have breathtaking views of not only the sea but the famous walled city Saint-Malo in Brittany.

Saint-Quay-Portrieux

38) outdoor saltwater pool (saint-quay-portrieux).

Address: 6 Rue de la Crosse, 35400 Saint-Malo, France www.saintquayportrieux.com/voir-faire/sites-voir/piscine-eau-mer/

Châtelet beach is one of three beaches in Saint-Quay-Portrieuxc, a seaside resort town with another seawater pool. Built in 1929, around the same time as the other seawater pools on this list. The seawater is renewed at every high tide when the levels exceed 9m. (high tide can go as high as 12m completely hiding the pool.

The public pool turned into a museum in Roubaix.

The next time you’re in Lille, go to the neighbouring city of Roubaix. It has a fascinating pool inside a museum.

39) La Piscine (Roubaix)

The museum pool

Address : 23 Rue de l’Espérance, 59100 Roubaix, France https://www.roubaix-lapiscine.com/

The pool in Roubaix originally opened in 1932 but closed in 1985 for safety reasons. In 2001, it reopened as Musée d’art et d’industrie, but most people just call it La Piscine Museum.

It’s a unique museum concept and an unusual setting for various works of art. Be sure to check out the stone figures and statues around the pool.

If you decide to visit the Piscine Museum, be sure to pick up the Lille City pass. For a little less than 30 USD, it gives you free access to more than 30 tourist sites and attractions in Lille, including the Piscine Museum of Art and Industry in Roubaix. Plus, you can use the pass to travel around the city for free on Lille’s metropolitan public transport network (metro, bus, tram)

Order your Lille city pass online and get instant confirmation.

Free entry to more than 30 tourist sites and attractions. Free use of Lille's metropolitan public transport network (metro, bus, tram). Discounts in selected restaurants and shops in Lille, Roubaix and Tourcoing. Free cancellation Cancel up to 24 hours in advance. To receive a full refund Mobile ticketing Vouchers must be exchanged for tickets. Duration: 24 - 72 hours

Vives les piscines municipales!

The public pools on this list may pale compared to some high-end hotel pools, but remember, these are public pools for the masses with a price point that you can’t beat.

For less than the cost of a Starbucks frappuccino coffee, you can spend the whole day, if you want, swimming and cooling down in these pools.  It’s an excellent value for your money. Plus, you can flex your French language skills and experience what it’s like to live in France versus swimming at your hotel pool with other tourists. 

Disclosure : This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a 'petite commission' at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through my links. It helps me buy more wine and cheese. Please read my disclosure for more info.

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Annie André

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I'm Annie André, a bilingual North American with Thai and French Canadian roots. I've lived in France since 2011. When I'm not eating cheese, drinking wine or hanging out with my husband and children, I write articles on my personal blog annieandre.com for intellectually curious people interested in all things France: Life in France, travel to France, French culture, French language, travel and more.

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Loire Valley

Swimming spots

Accueil Discover Water activities Swimming spots

Swimming, walking, picnicking: the lakes and waterways of the Loire Valley are ideal for spending time with the family. Here are some of the best places to relax when the sun comes out.  

LAKES, WATERWAYS AND LEISURE PARKS IN THE LOIRE VALLEY  

Lakes and waterways are an integral part of the natural landscape in the Loire Valley. They are also ideal for walkers and swimmers, who can enjoy the peaceful, quiet surroundings. These specially equipped areas are often supervised in summer, and sometimes even offer activities. 

This is the case in our wooded areas, where you can swim, go for a walk, go fishing or take part in water sports , like at the Etang de la Vallée, in Combreux , in the heart of the Orléans forest. And for a swim in the river, head to Ile-Bouchard .  

In summer, there is supervised swimming in the Vienne river. The area is ideal for enjoying the water. 

In Chalette-sur-Loing, a lake has been developed on what was once a quarry. It has now become the Chalette-sur-Loing leisure park . Near Tours, in Château-la-Vallière, you will find the Lac Joyeux leisure park , where you can enjoy a pedal-boat ride or a fitness trail. 

A NATURAL SWIMMING POOL  

Situated a fifteen-minute drive from the famous Château de Chambord , the Grand Chambord natural swimming area is the ideal place to take a dip.  

Why natural? Because its crystal-clear water is constantly circulating from the swimming pool to the filtration basin, filled with aquatic plants.  

This 2,000 m² water park has been designed for everyone (water depth varies from 20 cm to 1.60 m). Its grassy banks blend in perfectly with the landscape.  

DISCOVER OTHER ARTICLES ON WATER ACTIVITIES

Cruise along the canals

A trip on a traditional boat

Canoeing and kayaking in the Loire Valley

Water parks and Center parks

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Oui In France

What to know about public swimming pools in France

on life in France

One of my favorite parts of blogging is hearing from all of you out there! When I asked for guest posts to put up while I’m on vacation, I thought I’d maybe get an email from one or two people but instead I got a bunch of great pitches from super-cool readers. To kick off this week, we’re hearing from Sara, a fellow New Jersey girl who blogs about life in Paris and travels through European on her blog, Simply Sara Travel . And she’s talking about France’s public pools!

What are public swimming pools in France like?

My husband and I lived in Paris for three years and recently moved back to the NYC area in June. Before we said au revoir, we embarked on a one-month farewell-to-France road trip where we hoped to get our last fill (for the moment) of all things French.

For the most part, we felt like we had really taken advantage of our time living abroad and didn’t have too many bucket list items, besides just getting in some more time to travel around the country. There was one outstanding item waiting to be checked-off, apparently.

“I want to go to a public pool,” Michael replied to my question of what activity he wanted to do while in Toulouse.

I soon learned that this swimming in France thing wasn’t an on-the-whim idea. He had researched our route, plotted out where the public pools were located, and narrowed in on a swimming facility just outside Toulouse as the best option. “Oh, and I bought these for the occasion,” he revealed, pulling out a speedo from his suitcase. He really wanted the cultural experience of going to a French public pool, judging from the preparations he had done.

Now, this might sound like a last-minute effort to make a “not-ready-for-America” purchase, as my sister-in-law would call it.

Speedos are acceptable swimwear in France

Do you know what to wear swimming in France? For men, wearing a speedo-style in French pools is required (and we have heard of many cases of people being thrown out of the pool for wearing swimming “shorts”), but the exact reason raises much speculation.

I’ve heard it all come back to sanitation concerns. Some say that speedos are mandated since they dry fast. Frequent swimmers aren’t going to wash their suit daily, so a fast-drying suit is best. Others say that the problem is that clothing worn outside is not allowed to come into the pool area.

Bathing trucks could be worn like shorts, but no one is going to be traipsing about in a French speedo prior to coming into the pool. Whatever the case, the point is, there are rules — and us foreigners must properly prep for an afternoon at the pool because it may not be intuitive. Swimming in speedos was certainly new to us.

So do you have to wear speedos in France? Kinda. While you don’t have to wear the speedo brand per se, you do need to wear a tight-fitting swimsuit and not board shorts or baggy swim trunks.

The average tourist might not be inclined to venture too far from La place du Capitole, the grand square of Toulouse.

France swimming pool rules

We pulled up to the Espace Nautique Jean-Vauchère facility on a weekday afternoon, and braced ourselves for what was to follow. There is tons you can find on the internet about the procedures of a French public pool.

Michael, of course, had read a lot, to make sure we knew what to do. We were even a little thankful that the one woman in front of us to pay had some sort of special case and was holding up the line. It gave us time to notice the vending machine in the corner of the room.

“Oh, we need our bonnets de nage,” Michael informed me. “They’re even required for guys with short hair – everyone needs to wear one in the pool.” So swim caps in hand, we paid and entered, level #1 unlocked.

I thought we were doing great, despite the very confused looks from the cashier when she heard our foreign accents. But we had barely turned the corner when we heard stern French coming at us in a huff.

The foul? We had switched out of our sneakers and into flip flops in the parking lot, since we thought it would be easier than to carry the change of footwear inside.

Silly us, we were caught wearing “street shoes” into the locker room, which was an apparent no-no.

So we sheepishly removed our flip-flops, proceeded barefoot, and selected a locker to share in the co-ed space.

We changed in the individual changing stalls around the perimeter of the room, and then headed out with our towels to the next step in the getting-ready process: the showers.

The first time I encountered these European pool-preparations was in Iceland, and I got freaked out a bit. If you don’t know what’s coming, exiting the locker room area in your bathing suit into a room of naked women showering before going into the pool is a bit confusing.

So this time I was less surprised to see a row of shower heads and soap dispensers, where everyone was rinsing off in their bathing suits.

What came next though, is a little twist to the sanitary regiment that I had come to expect. Looking back at it, I assume this extra step was a “because France” thing. My father-in-law loves to live by the motto “Rules are for other people.”

In some regards, if you’ve ever lived in France, you might think at times this is part of their national identity as it is part of Dad’s personality. The proof I can submit to you today is that when we turned the corner, expecting to go straight into the pool area, we instead found a foyer lined with rows of motion-sensitive sprinklers overhead.

Yes, we were made to walk through a car-wash-for-people intended to catch that sneaky non-rule abiding group who may not have properly washed. (Of course, we observed one woman in the know who had marked out a path that would even avoid the reach of those sprinklers.)

Once inside, we found many options in front of us. To the left was the lap pool with many lanes. To the right, a pool for the more casual swimmers. Straight ahead was an outdoor pool, complete with a lazy river, that was sadly still closed for the season since it was only mid-May. But just before the doors to exit for the outdoor section was an “Aquagym” with exercise equipment.

I took off in that direction, and made a beeline for the underwater treadmill. When you consider that we were halfway through our final hurrah of traveling through France, which included eating all the cheese, baguette, and croissant we could lay our hands on, you might imagine how the prospect of an underwater treadmill would make me ecstatic. I gripped the handlebar and had just barely started to jog when…

Zzzzzzing!! A whistle sounded, stopping me in my tracks.

“Désolée, Monsieur,” I apologized, after being told that there was an extra charge for the area that had to paid upon entry. There were systems in place that I should have anticipated before entering the pool, and should have known to make a reservation and pay for time in the Aquagym.

I got out of the water, and turned my attention to the other method of exercise I could instead participate in – swimming laps. I’ve never been a serious swimmer, and only had vague notions that in the US faster swimmers go on one side and slower swimmers on the other. I watched to see if this was an etiquette across international waters but not to my surprise, observed some form of organized chaos typical of France.

French pools aren’t the same. I wasn’t ready to get in trouble a third time, and let’s be honest — we weren’t there to work out anyway. Suddenly I noticed one last unexplored area, one that was surely more our speed.

The Espace Détente — the relaxation space. It was equipped with a steam room, a pool with a waterfall flowing into it, a sauna, and a jacuzzi. All which we were happily tried in that order.

As we settled into the last of the series, the jacuzzi, we were shortly joined by a middle-aged gentleman and an older lady. Michael and I were softly talking which piqued the interest of our jacuzzi-mates.

Where were we from? What we were doing in Toulouse? What were two Americans on vacation doing at the pool? Wasn’t Toulouse so lovely? Better than Paris, no?

It was day 3, our last day in Toulouse, and we had been surprised from the get-go about how friendly the residents of Toulouse were. Our conversation continued. The man was eager to remark that Americans only eat hamburgers and drink coca (translation: Coke), and went on to express surprise that we were not overweight like our fellow countrymen.

It’s that French frankness that might have offended us three years ago, but now was just shrugged off. “You’re going to love Toulouse so much, you will quickly return,” he declared to us as we parted ways and got out of the jacuzzi.

Last week, as I was sorting through laundry to bring down to wash in our Manhattan apartment building, a speedo and two black swim caps tumbled out of a miscellaneous pile. They are the physical mementos we have from our French public pool experience. Holding that tiny bit of sleek material, I couldn’t help but smile and think back to our jacuzzi small talk. That man was right — we did love Toulouse, and hope to return one day.

And we got to try out a public pool in France there. Michael sure picked a gorgeous facility for the experience, though perhaps this advice needs to be added to the endless French public pool forums — if you’re a foreigner, try the Espace Nautique Jean-Vauchère because at least when you get yelled at, it’s in France’s friendliest city.

Espace Nautique Jean-Vauchère Place Fêtes, 31770 Colomiers, France

Ever experienced swimming at a public pool in France? Show Sara some love in the comments & check out her blog here !

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September 21, 2015 at 9:51 am

Ha ha Sara, this made me chuckle! Such a funny thing to do on your last hurrah! (Why hadn’t you been to one before…? Aquaboulevard in Paris is pretty good). The speedo thing always gets foreign men but I must say I’ve never had to wear a swim cap in all the pools I’ve been to in 18 years in France, in the 5 départements I’ve lived in plus the many others I’ve been to when visiting family or on holidays elsewhere. However I have never swum in Toulouse! I’ve heard that the speedos keep more pubic hair in!!!! Great choice of guest blogger Diane!

September 22, 2015 at 9:25 pm

Thanks, Phoebe! You know, that is a good question – I’ve heard there are some good public pools in Paris! To be honest, neither of us swim very much – nothing against it, but usually unless I’m going to the beach or invited to a pool party, I never think of swimming. It seemed like in the end, the swim caps were only needed in the lap pool – but we were prepared just in case. With the way things were going, it would be our luck to get blown the whistle at for not complying with that rule too 🙂

September 21, 2015 at 2:33 pm

Great post and of much interest. We have still not ventured into a public pool though we have one in our small village and we have been here for 10 years!! Well done. t’other Diane

September 22, 2015 at 9:33 pm

Thank you, Diane! If it weren’t for my hubby’s curiosity to go through the cultural experience, I would have lived in France for 3 years and never set foot in a public pool either!

September 21, 2015 at 4:31 pm

Love this post! My husband and I went to the Espace Nautique Jean-Vauchère on one of our first dates. While the co-ed locker rooms were an adjustment, I definitely couldn’t complain about him obeying speedo rule!

September 23, 2015 at 6:25 pm

Hehe, that is a cute date idea! I love that you’ve experienced the Espace Nautique Jean-Vauchère! Did you get to go in the summer? I’m so curious about that lazy river! It looked like the outdoor space was quite nice for a public pool.

September 21, 2015 at 8:18 pm

Nice post Sara. As a former New Yorker living in Toulouse this hits pretty close to home. We’ve avoided the public pool for exactly this reason. I’m afraid the delicate sensibilities of our french neighbors might not be able to handle this big hairy American in a speedo!

September 27, 2015 at 2:49 pm

Hahaha 🙂 That’s so cool that you live in Toulouse – despite being the subject of many frustrated whistle-blows at the pool, I have to say that the people of Toulouse were some of the friendliest people I’ve met in the country! Not to say those from other regions are not friendly, but those in Toulouse seemed so outgoing and warm in a way that was more “American” in ways than French.

The Espace Nautique Jean-Vauchère is really nice, so seriously don’t be afraid to check it out when it gets really hot over there!

September 22, 2015 at 1:48 am

Oh my this made me laugh, speedos are something men wear a lot here down under

September 27, 2015 at 2:51 pm

Haha glad you appreciated the cultural shock of the speedo (more so of it being mandatory at the pool!). I don’t think my hubby’s is ready to make an appearance in the US, unless it’s in a private hot tub or something!

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Daniel Start’s Ten Favourite French Swims

• Words : Daniel Start
• Daniel Start

For wild swimming, France can offer a plethora of remote land with fresh rivers, thermal springs, lakes and waterfalls in one of Europe’s cleanest waters. For those looking for more tranquil locations than the coast, there is an abundance of stunning destinations throughout with the South offering the reliability of warmth right through to October. Regions are thriving with natural and artificial reserves alongside a backdrop of idyllic scenery from spectacular gorge systems to phenomenal rock formations.

Daniel Start, travel writer, photographer and environmental consultant is the author of numerous books on wild swimming and winner of the Writers’ Guild Award for Non-Fiction. Here he shares his favourite swims from his book Wild Swimming in France …

Chenonceaux - (Tours 30km)

The great river Loire is too large and wild for swimming but many of France’s most beautiful châteaux cluster along its smaller, more gentle tributaries. The charming river Cher flows among vineyards and orchards and is the setting for the exquisite, châteaux of Chenonceaux. It is popular with tourists in seasons but you can easily escape the crowds by approaching for free along the woodland path and swimming from sandy bays in the idyllic river pool which lies upstream. The perfect line of white Renaissance arches spans the river and provides a stunning backdrop reflected in the pool,  especially at sunset. At the Chisseaux D40 road bridge follow the footpath 10 mins downstream along the left bank of river downstream (lat long: 47.3247, 1.0731). To the east are several other delightful swimming locations, such as the sandy riverside beaches at St-Aignan  and quiet riverbanks of Chatillon-sur-Cher.

Cascades du Hérisson – (Mouchard 30km)

Waterfalls dominate the Jura region, and the Cascades du Hérisson is a good place to start, not least because all the signs seem to point you in that direction. Start by climb up and above the dramatic main falls of L’Éventail and the Le Grand Saut. Neither of these has a plunge pool but if you continue further through woodlands on the marked trail you will come to the Le Gour Bleu, a perfect plunge piscine set in a wooded glade with beach and a waterfall. You can climb up and behind the curtain of rushing water and explore behind the falls too – a real treat. Follow the D678 from Lons-le-Saunier (Lat Long 46.6147, 5.8605). Lac du Val is on the road to the visitor centre for the falls and is also good for a longer swim.

Lac d’Annecy – (Annecy 5km)

Lac d’Annecy, in its gentle but dramatic mountain setting, is perhaps France’s most famous swimming lake. The water is a deep-turquoise hue and subterranean hot springs ensure the temperature is always pleasant. There is a fair amount of development along its shoreline, so to escape to its wilder parts, follow a 45-minute path through the woods to the headland of Roc de Chère where cliffs plunge into deep water. Here you can swim, snorkel and jump from the high ledges as the sun sets over the lake. 700m north of Talloires, just after the D42 turns sharp right on the hill, you’ll see a set of stone steps and footpath, direction ‘Roc de Chère, Liason Menthon’ (Lat Long: 45.8435, 6.1891). There are a number of more easily accessible beach areas too, and Angon (with life guards, café and facilities) has one of best locations, with views across to the Château d’Annecy.

Pont d’Arc - (Orange 30km)

On the lower reaches of the fast-flowing Ardèche stands the famous Pont d’Arc, an extraordinary natural rock arch, as high as a cathedral, formed over millions of years. Swimming beneath this massive vault at dawn, before the crowds descend, can be an almost mystical experience. On the upstream right bank you can climb up and into a cave tunnel and appear out of a hole high on the inside of the arch. Great for jumps. This site is incredibly busy so it’s best to arrive before 10am or after 5pm. If you stay the night try the more tranquil campsites downstream (Le Midi, La Rouvière or  Les Gorges). Or rent a canoe for two a day expedition to explore the beautiful downstream sections of the gorge. D290 from Vallon-Pont-d’Arc (Lat Long 44.3821, 4.4169)

Pont du Diable, Hérault (Montpellier)

The Hérault is one of the most important rivers of the Massif Central and Languedoc region. At Pont du Diable a huge pool forms beneath the impressive old bridge at the base of a canyon. This is a very popular place to swim, with beaches and a large car park, but for some real adventure, and the chance for jumps and high dives, swim upstream into the incredible rock formations of the gorge. St-Guilhem-le-Désert, one of the best-preserved medieval villages in France, is nearby and cave enthusiasts might be tempted by the stalactities of the Grotte de Clamouse, reached by subterranean river. Leave A750 from Montpelier at Gignac 4km from Aniane on D27 (Lat Long: 43.7065, 3.5568)

Cascade du Sautadet, Cèze

The river Cèze is just south of the much busier Ardèche and just north of the famous Pont du Gard. At the Cascade du Sautadet you’ll find one of France’s most impressive series of waterfalls. There are deep pots of bubbling water to luxuriate in, chutes to slide down and limestone cliffs, eroded into strange shapes, from which brave French boys perform spectacular high-dives. Just downstream a long beach is perfect for sunbathing and a large deep pool stretches out, ideal for more sedate swimming or snorkelling in the clear waters. It’s difficult to get bored here with so much going on but if the parents would prefer a bit of culture they can wonder through the medieval lanes of the La Roque-sur- Cèze above, one of the official ‘Plus Beaux’ villages in France, with a delightful church. If you have longer, explore further along valley, right up to Montclus, to find more gorges and riverside beaches. 30km west of Orange, D980 from Bagnols, then D166. (Lat Long 44.1890,  4.5271)

Cascades de Purcaraccia, Corsica

Known as the Granite Isle, rugged Corsica is the ancient core of a volcanic mass that rises steeply out of the Mediterranean providing some of the most dramatic mountain landscapes in Europe. Perhaps the most spectacular peaks are the aiguilles or ‘needles’ of Bavella, which thrust their pointy spires into the clouds like something from Tolkien. Smooth white marble bowls filled with emerald-coloured water make the Purcarracia the most stunning series of waterfalls in the area, with huge slides and an infinity pool that allows you to swim up and peer over a precipice. The deep marble tubs resemble giant dew drops that have been scooped out of the mountain. Continue on D268 and about 2.5km beyond Col de Larone (the plateau and viewpoint on the route to Col de Bavella) find clear path on the right, 100m before the bridge over the Purcaraccia (Lat Long 41.8375, 9.2645). The nearby Polischellu and lower Vacca canyon are also worth checking out.

Pont du Diable, upper Ardèche

If you mention the Ardèche many will think of the huge Pont d’Arc – its famous natural arch – and the gorges below. But head upstream away from the crowds and the landscape changes dramatically. High hexagonal rock columns, like those which form the Giant’s Causeway, rise like towering organ pipes, formed from crystallised magma from volcanic eruptions. They now create deep pools and excellent jumping platforms with terrifying names. At Pont du Diable (Devil’s Bridge) near Thuyets a slender medieval bridge spans a narrow gorge above a large river pool with various ledges for jumps. The water below is jade green and beautifully clear. A  via ferrata  rope course above provides additional excitement. The Gouffre de l’Enfer (Hell’s Abyss) near Burzet is also a favourite, with a deep cauldron hidden in the woods.  Pont du Diable is signed 1km E of Thueyts on N102 (Lat Long 44.6710, 4.2216).

Lac d’Ilay, Jura (Swim 4)

Lakes and waterfalls abound in the remote Jura region north of Geneva. Set among rolling hills and alpine foothills it is easy to find a lake all to yourself. Perfect for a skinny dip then, though be discrete if you do and ensure there are no fishermen watching. Not far from the tiny village of Ilay – and only a few kilometres from the famous Cascades du Hérisson – are a series of idyllic tarns which receive very few visitors. Lac d’Ilay is the largest. The water is very warm, and there is a grassy area which leads down to a beach. The early mornings here are particularly atmospheric as great swathes of mist hang over the water. Night time, beneath a full galaxy of stars, is another wonderful moment to strip off and swim free. Turn off main D678 for D75 to Le Frasnois and find track to lake on right just before the hamlet (Lat Long 46.6319, 5.9001)

Lac de Serre-Ponçon, Gap

Lac de Serre-Ponçon is France’s largest man-made body of water, formed by the Durance and Ubaye alpine rivers. Its construction in 1961 submerged a viaduct and several villages – which regularly reappear at low water – and left an ancient hilltop chapel marooned as an offshore island. During the summer, as the waters recede, over 50 miles of wild beach form around the lake shores, making this one of the longest beaches in Europe. It’s a perfect area for wild camping, swimming and exploring. The south-west tail of the lake, near the Cimetière d’Ubaye (D954), 6km west of Le Lauzet-Ubaye, is one the least populated with grassland, silver shale beaches, warm water and cliffs and gorges for snorkelling and jumping (44.4644, 6.3580).

Wild Swimming France: discover the most beautiful rivers, lakes and waterfalls of France by Daniel Start

Wild Swimming France contains all the practical information you’ll need to lure you off the beaten track to over 400 amazing locations. With stunning photography, 15 maps, and detailed directions, grid references and walk-in times. In vast areas of unspoilt French countryside there is so much to discover, from the tranquil river beaches of the Ardeche and the secret waterfalls of the Languedoc, to the shimmering aquamarine pools of Corsica and the Alps. Wild Swimming France takes you on an aquatic voyage to the wild side of the world’s favourite holiday destination and introduce you to parts of France you never knew existed.

You can purchase a copy of Wild Swimming France from the publisher by following this link.

Our website is supported by our users. We earn commission when you click through to the Wild Things website using this affiliate link and make a purchase. This does not affect our editorial independence and integrity.

Swimming lakes in France

Whether it's camping at Lac d'Annecy or a beach vacation on the French Riviera, France offers a variety of beautiful swimming options.

France offers many beautiful and natural bathing lakes in a unique natural landscape. Numerous bathing places at rivers and lakes invite you to wild swim and relax. On our France map a little further down below you will get a practical overview to discover the most beautiful lake for you. From quarry ponds and reservoirs to mountain lakes, all types of inland lakes are represented.

You're out and about right now in France wondering "Where can I find a swimming lake near me? " Now discover your favorite nearby lake with the area search that meets your requirements. No matter whether it is particularly beautiful, large or secluded and quiet.

You love sandy beaches and want to go nudist bathing? Or you do not have your own car and want to reach the reach the beach by public transport? No problem! Use the comfortable filter search and rediscover your surroundings.

Read more: Water Quality & Lake Vacation

Discover Bathing places in the individual regions:

Some of the most beautiful bathing places in france.

3453 Entries found

• Le Moulin Du Roure
• Simple bathing place
• Pebble beach
• Les Bretonnieres
• Plage Oceane Sud
• Ste-adresse-plage
• Castel, Nice
• Etretat-plage
• Rondinara Plage

Little facts about France

Average water quality in france*.

*Water quality is based on the annual report of the European Environment Agency EEA.

Water quality France 2024

Safe bathing thanks to regular water tests

In total, more than 3453 bathing sites and lakes are registered in France registered, which are regularly inspected by local authorities for bathing safety. The results are submitted annually to the European Environment Agency.

France performs very well on a regular basis. The average value of the last test from 2021 was 4.5. This is no improvement on the previous year. 2020 the value was 4.5

Unfortunately, no values are yet available for the year 2022.

Current: For the year 2021 (latest report) the test results are now available. 7.7% of all bathing sites had a very good water quality according to the EU criteria 2021. 9.4% achieved a good water quality.

Please also check the latest publications of the regional authorities, as environmental influences such as heavy rainfall or hot spells can have a short-term negative quality in the short term and can promote blue-green algae (cyanobacteria), vibrios, cercariae or other other germs. Swimcheck does not guarantee the accuracy of the information and does not make any does not make any recommendation.

Discover everything about swimming and bathing

Vacation in France on the lake

Whether vacation home, hotel or camping - the main thing is at the lake!

Why not just stay a little longer? Not only day trips and short trips to the nearest to the nearest lake are a great change from everyday life and the perfect leisure opportunity. Even a complete summer vacation at the lake is fun and the recreation is often closer than you think. It doesn't always have to be the Mediterranean. Also for the sake of the environment or your wallet. France offers many lakes for a relaxed bathing vacation with children or the partner. By a multiplicity at recreational opportunities, there is something for everyone. From a boat trip with a rowing boat to a boat trip across the lake, diving, fishing, water skiing or simply just playing beach volleyball and having a barbecue. From inexpensive to the upper price range are different accommodation options are available. From camping to hotel - the main thing is at the lake!

Camping in France on the lake

The closest to nature is definitely on a campsite! Whether in your own tent, in a comfortable bungalow or directly in the mobile caravan. A camping vacation is an experience for the whole family. Early in the morning with a cup of coffee at the lake, watching the shallow waves and thinking about whether to curl up in the hammock today. hammock, read a book and let the soul dangle or rather play soccer and table tennis with the children. playing soccer and table tennis with the kids and then fire up the grill.

Now find a swimming lake with a campground.

Stay in a cottage or hotel on the lake

You long for rest and relaxation and do not want to sacrifice comfort?

Vacation homes and apartments on the lake in France are just the right thing for all nature & water lovers. Water lovers, who nevertheless do not want to do without some luxury. A vacation home is suitable especially for families and larger groups who want to spend their vacations together at the lake. Common Excursions, cook together and let the view wander over the water - that's what recreation looks like.

Bathing lakes, bathing places and outdoor swimming pools

Currently 3453 swimming possibilities are listed in France. Whether at rivers, lakes or the sea or even as an open-air bath or summer bath laid out. For each bathing place you find the most important information at Swimcheck to get an get as good an overview as possible. This includes details such as beach condition, accessibility, boat rental in the vicinity, naturist nudist bathing and much more.

Beaches in France

Thanks to its coastal location, France offers numerous beaches directly by the sea. Countless beach sections and beach resorts offer a large and varied selection for all selection for all water rats and sun worshippers. You will find both the prominent beaches in the party regions as well as the more more touristy dream beaches in more remote areas. Discover now the most beautiful beaches in France!

Frequently searched properties of bathing lakes

Swimming lakes france with dog - where are dogs allowed.

France offers many beautiful swimming lakes, which are also accessible for you and your dog. Spend a relaxing day outdoors and let your dog splash in the cool water. Some bathing lakes have special areas for dogs where they can swim undisturbed. However, it is important to know the rules of each bathing lake before you go there, as some bathing places may have may have restrictions for dogs. Don't forget to keep your dog on a leash if he is not allowed to swim and make sure you keep the area clean by disposing of waste immediately. immediately. Also, make sure your dog is not too noisy and does not disturb other visitors. other visitors. Spend an unforgettable day with your dog at a swimming lake in France!

Swimming lakes in France with dog .

Bathing lakes France with child - Child friendly bathing lakes

Child-friendly bathing lakes are characterized by a child-friendly infrastructure, such as playgrounds, Toilets, lifeguards and many more. Find a bathing lake that has a child-friendly atmosphere and enjoy the cool water, the sun and nature. Don't forget to bring enough sunscreen, snacks and drinks to make the day as pleasant as possible. A visit to a swimming lake in France is a great way to spend time with your kids and create new memories.

Swimming lakes in France with child .

Bathing lakes France with toilet

Swimming lakes in France often offer well-equipped infrastructure, including toilets. You can a refreshing and comfortable day outdoors without worrying about the lack of sanitary facilities. facilities. However, make sure in advance whether the desired bathing lake has toilets.

Bathing lakes France with toilet .

Nudist bathing lakes in France

France offers a selection of bathing lakes, which are also suitable for naturism (FKK). You can take off your clothes and refresh yourself in complete freedom in the water. However, it is important the rules of each bathing lake carefully, as some bathing places may have restrictions. have. Make sure you are respectful of other bathers and that you keep the environment clean. clean.

Nudist swimming lakes France.

Free bathing lakes in France - bathing pleasure without entrance fee

France offers many great ways to enjoy the summer, even without paying an entrance fee. pay. There are many free swimming lakes where you can enjoy the sun, water and nature without paying an entrance fee. nature without paying an entrance fee. Spend a relaxing day outdoors and enjoy the cool water without having to dig deep into your pocket. without having to dig deep into your pocket.

Free swimming lakes France.

Bathing lakes France with public transport

France also offers bathing possibilities, which can be reached comfortably with public transport for example, bus, streetcar or S-Bahn. Spend a refreshing day outdoors, without having to without having to worry about traffic and parking. So you can fully concentrate on the concentrate on the pleasure of swimming.

Bathing lakes France with public transport .

Lakes in Francezum walking and cycling

The beautiful bathing lakes in France can also be explored by walking, biking or cycling. bike tour. Spend a refreshing day outdoors and enjoy nature. Whether you prefer to along the shore or on a bicycle, the bathing lakes in France are a real insider tip for nature lovers.

Bathing lakes France with bike racks .

"Every man of culture has two fatherlands: his own - and France. " - Thomas Jefferson

Top 10 Bathing places in France

Here we show you the best Bathing places

• La Grande Plage

to swimming lakes in France

Among the most beautiful lakes in France are:

• Lake Geneva (Lac Léman)
• Lac d'Annecy
• Lac du Bourget
• Lac de Serre-Ponçon

Lac du Bourget is the largest natural lake in France with an area of 44.5 km². It is located in the north of the Savoie department and is 145 m deep.

The largest reservoir in France is Lac de Serre-Ponçon in the French Western Alps.

Where to go Wild Swimming in France

Ruth Wood dips into Daniel Smart’s book about France’s wild swimming spots, from languorous rivers and bubbling falls to turquoise lakes and hot springs…

A house by the sea in France can make your eyes water-not just due to the salt but the premium attached to coastal property. Properties by rivers and lakes tend to attract more modest pricetags and yet, says Daniel Start, the country’s fresh inland waters are a paradise for wild swimmers.

“France is a wonderful country for swimming,” says Daniel, who has just launched the second edition of his travel guide Wild Swimming France. “It has a quarter of the population density of England and such good water quality. The north is rich in pastoral rivers, weirs and beaches while in the south are the gorges and waterfalls of the Massif Central I have been exploring France since I was a boy and I really wanted to document its most beautiful aquatic wonders.”

Through 15 years of research and 20 trips to France, Daniel (who lives, appropriately, near the city of Bath) has pinpointed and photographed thousands of great wild swimming spots in the Hexagone. Here is just a taster to ‘wet’ your appetite.

Wild Swimming in Normandy

Hop off the ferry at Caen and within 30 minutes you can dive into the delights of Calvados with a dip in the River Orne. Meandering through an area of meadows and limestone cliffs known as the Suisse Normande, its silty, warm and clean waters are bordered by cycle paths, enabling you to discover swimming spots from the saddle.

Daniel highlights the village of Clécy, a fun-filled stretch of riverside with weir, restaurants, rope swings, pedalos and canoe hire.

Over in the department of Eure, canoeing is a good way to explore the tranquil pools and grassy banks of the Risle river south of Pont-Audemer and the Eure river, near Evreux. Try the rapids at Condé-sur-Risle or one of the many Eure pools such as the gravel lakes at Maintenon. There are also some beautiful lakes in the Perche regional park, says Daniel, who singles out the jade-green Étang de Mousuette, a secluded lake in deep forest with warm water and sandy banks.

Loire Valley Wild Swimming

Swimming is not allowed in the mighty Loire, due to its unpredictable channels and flows, although there are plenty of safe paddling spots. Likewise, it is prohibited on the Sarthe due to boat traffic.

Thankfully, the rivers have many peaceful tributaries. One such is the Louet, a sandy side channel of the Loire boasting some of the region’s finest river beaches, according to Daniel, although water levels can drop in summer. He suggests you try Port Gaurion, south of Angers.

He also recommends a swim in the Loir, where it drifts past the ruined medieval château of Lavardin and the troglodyte dwellings of Trôo. For a fairytale backdrop, how about a dip in the Cher just upstream from Château de Chenonceau? You can also swim off the beach at Sabot campsite, just round the corner from the château of Azay-le-Rideau.

Wild Swimming in Burgundy

The nearest serious hills to Paris are in the Morvan regional park, which hosts plentiful swimming lakes and reservoirs. Try the shores of Lac de Pannecière-Chaumard near Bonin or the unspoilt waters of Chaumeçon about 1.5km north of Vaussegrois.

Among the rivers rising on the Morvan plateau is the Cure, which flows north and pours into the Yonne south of Auxerre. Children will love the plunge pool below the Saut de Gouloux waterfall, says Daniel, and splashing in the river beside the twin stone bridges of Pierre-Perthuis. Downstream, you can take a dip in the “whisky-brown waters” beside the Grottes d’Arcy-sur-Cure, a remarkable series of caves with prehistoric paintings.

On the Chalaux, a tributary of the Cure, adrenaline junkies can try hydrospeed, a form of whitewater swimming with floating board and flippers.

For a more serene experience, bathe in the aptly named Serein as it meanders through picture-perfect Noyers and Chablis, In both cases a good spot is by the campsites on the south side of town.

Where can you go wild swimming in Limousin?

Those who seek an affordable home in France may already know the Creuse, Gartempe, Vienne, Maulde and Dordogne rivers that flow through this rural region. Daniel points to two dozen great activities on the Creuse including jumping from the tree ladder on the islands at Néons-sur-Creuse, enjoying the island beaches at Sauzelles and bathing in the confluence pool at Fresselines where painter Claude Monet used to swim.

Lac de Vassivière in Creuse is the region’s largest leisure lake, with Broussas being Daniel’s preferred managed beach. But it’s the wilder shores of nearby Lac de la Vaud Gelade (try Pelletanges) and nearby Taurion gorges that are a real paradise for swimmers, he assures us-likewise, the secluded coves of Lac-de-St- Pardoux in Haute-Vienne.

In Corrèze, Daniel recommends the woodland pools of the River Maronne at Tours de Merle, where you’ll also find “the most romantic ruin in France”, he says. He’s a fan of the Cascades de Murel too, a waterfall trail on the Valeine, a stream north of Argentat-sur-Dordogne.

Where to wild swim in Poitou-Charentes

Head east out of the Vienne capital Poitiers and you find a host of wild swimming spots in the Vienne, Gartempe and Anglin valleys. Daniel highlights the Plus Beau Village of Angles-sur-l’Anglin, where bathers swim beneath a romantic ruined château, and L’Isle-Jourdain on the Vienne where you can swim under the arches of a viaduct.

Moving south we reach the teal waters of one of France’s best-loved waterways: the Charente, says Daniel. The cluster of bathing spots between Chatain and Angoulême includes the river pools by the prehistoric Chaffaud caves, near Civray, and the Aire de Rejallant at Ruffec, where you can enjoy good food, great swimming and canoe hire.

The mid-Charente, with its “mesmerising aquamarine hue” is finest around Aunac, where the woodland campsite has a series of excellent platforms for jumping and rope-swinging, says Daniel. Downstream, Lichères has a fun wooden hand-drawn barque across the river, while Le Portal at Vars has a supervised sandy beach, café, islands and rope swings.

Auvézère river – Wikimedia Commons

Wild swimming spots in Dordogne

The Charente village of Aubeterre-sur-Dronne is famously beautiful, but its river beach gets crowded in summer. What do the locals do? Hop over the Dronne river into Dordogne where the laidback village of Chenaud has a wide section of river with a weir, brilliant tree swing and château views, says Daniel. So now you know!

Likewise, you can swim from the town beach in charming Brantôme – Venice of Périgord -but there are quieter spots nearby, such as Puy Joubert or Valeuil. Other treasures of the Périgord Vert include the managed lake beaches at St-Estèphe and Nantheuil, the former of which has a café.

Further south in the Périgord Blanc, the Auvézère river has charming beaches above the weirs of Cubjac and Cubas, and wild waterfalls at St-Mesmin and Savignac-Lédrier. The star attraction of the Périgord Noir is, of course, the 10km stretch of the River Dordogne between Domme and Beynac as well as the River Vézère with its prehistoric sites. But Daniel suggests escaping the crowds and plunging instead into the “impossibly clear jade waters” at the Pont de Couzoland Daglan on the Céou tributary.

Wild swimming in Lot and Aveyron

A place of limestone cliffs, pretty villages and magnificent caves with iridescent lakes, Lot is spliced to the south by its eponymous river and to the north by the mighty River Dordogne. But it’s on the narrower, lesser-known Célé that you’ll find some of the most idyllic swimming spots. says Daniel, especially between the municipal campsite at Brengues and the dramatic cliff-hewn village of Cabrerets. Try the little beach just downstream of Sauliac, with its snack bar and tree jump.

Over in Aveyron, there’s good swimming below the cobbled bridge of Belcastel and the St-Blaise bridge at Najac, says Daniel, both Plus Beaux Villages on the Aveyron river.

Finally, don’t miss the Aveyron gorges, confusingly in Tarn-et-Garonne. A great base is the historic town of St-Antonin- Noble-Val, with a family-friendly beach upstream at Cazals

Can you swim in the Pyrénées and the French Alps?

Lac d’Annecy in Haute-Savoie is perhaps France’s most famous swimming lake. Of its managed beaches, Daniel favours Plage de Doussard on the southern tip for its knockout mountain views.

He also loves the eastern foothills of the Ecrins, south of Briançon, where there are several mountain streams and glacial lakes to explore along. the River Durance, including the chutes and pools of the Couleau gorge and the hot springs of Plan de Phazy.

In the Pyrénées, Daniel praises the fine pebble strands of the Oloron that flows through the ancient province of Béarn. Put in some lengths by the medieval bridge at Sauveterre-de-Béarn or relax on the pebbly Plage de Laàs at Montfort below the château where Napoleon slept the day after the Battle of Waterloo.

Neighbouring Ariège is rich in upland lakes and waterfalls. Daniel recommends relaxing in tranquil Lac de Mondély or making a splash in the jade-green pool beneath the Cascades de l’Artigue.

Where to wild swim in Roussillon and Corbieres

The Occitan Mediterranean beaches but also for its hot springs, says Daniel. The hippy atmosphere at the hot pools by Prats-Balaguer, in Pyrénées-Orientales, is not for everyone. But just downstream at Canaveilles, there’s a choice of sulphurous hot springs all along the riverbank and you can cool off in the River Tét afterwards. Indeed, the north- facing Têt and Tech valleys are full of world-class canyons, falls and smooth rocks that offer cold refreshment from the summer heat.

In Aude, you can get a natural hot shower at Rennes- les-Bains by following the river 300m downstream from the swimming pool to the springs.

Other Aude treats include the waterfalls and mauve-hued pools of the Gorges du Terminet on the River Orbieu, the Verdouble river by the Moulin de Ribaute, near Duilhac-sous-Peyrepertuse, and the Gorges de Galamus on the Agly with its “aquamarine pools of breathtaking beauty”.

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Wild swimming in Languedoc and Ardeche

The Orb in Hérault is one of the finest swimming rivers in France, says Daniel. A string of perfect beaches and deep pools stretches from just north of Béziers to the confluence with the River Jaur. Above here you’ll find the Gorges d’Héric, with its large boulders and clear, cool plunge pool.

One awe-inspiring sight to the east is the Cirque de Navacelles, where the meandering Vis river has cut an immense cauldron in the plateau. Bubbling up from an underground cave is a secluded waterfall from which fun-seekers have been leaping for generations.

Further east, the Pont du Gard is an iconic (and busy) swimming spot where the deep indigo waters of the River Gardon drift beneath a UNESCO-listed Roman aquaduct. Less well known are the bubbling pools and jumping ledges of the Ceze, particularly at the Cascade de Sautadet just outside La- Roque-sur-Cèze. To truly get away from it all, immerse yourself in the waters of the Tarn in Lozère at St-Chély-du-Tarn, Castelbouc or Pont-de-Montvert. In the Ardèche, Daniel’s tips include snorkelling in the aquatic limestone grottoes at La Padelle on the River Chassezac and enjoying a dawn swim under the Pont d’Arc before the day’s canoeists arrive en masse.

Wild swimming in Provence and the Cote d’Azur

Far from the crowded Riviera is the turquoise gem in Provence’s crown-the Verdon gorge. A pedalo from Pont du Galetas is a good way to see the limestone canyon and then swim under its waterfall, says Daniel. The Verdon’s lakes Ste- Croix and Quinson offer ample swimming opportunities (try Bauduen and Pont de Quinson) as do the Jabron and Artuby rivers, which Daniel describes as mini Verdons.

South of the Verdon is the unassuming village of Sillans- la-Cascade where the Bresque river plunges into what Daniel calls a “palm-lined oasis of opal water that makes you think you’ve been transported to Costa Rica”. Swimming is prohibited due to the risk of rock falls, but you’ll find more milky-blue pools in the woods downstream and another big waterfall further along the path, he assures us.

Many of the smaller rivers of arid Provence dry up in summer, but not the Toulourenc in northern Vaucluse, says Daniel. Families love to wade in its white limestone canyons east of Vaison-la-Romaine.

Last but not least, don’t miss the spectacular Clue d’Aiglun and the other ‘clues’ (canyons) of Alpes-Maritimes, in the mountains just above Nice. “Here, the Estéron has sliced a white slot canyon with great marble pools through the centre of the mountains,” says Daniel. “The clarity of the water and the smoothness of the plunge pools is a dream.”

Interested in wild swimming in France?

On Thursday, 15th June Daniel Smart, author of the popular book Wild Swimming in France, joined our friends at France Today Live and dove into his favourite spots to cool off this summer, including beautiful rivers, lakes, waterfalls, hot springs, and natural pools all across the country. Daniel also shared his top tips to enjoy and preserve these natural gems and make your next trip a truly unforgettable experience.

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• 8 Epic Places For Wild...

Epic Places for Wild Swimming in France

For wild swimming, France offers up a whole host of options all over the country, from fresh rivers to mountain lakes, and from dramatic waterfalls to turquoise pools. Here are the top eight epic places for wild swimming in France.

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips , compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips .

Cascades du Sautadet

Located near La-Roque-sur-Cèze village, labeled as one of the most beautiful villages in France, Cascades du Sautadet are a series of incredible waterfalls formed by the Ceze river. Strong currents are formed by the waterfalls and so swimming is recommended in the calmer waters a little away from the waterfalls. Cascades du Sautadet is classed as a natural area, so make sure you head to the public left bank as the right bank is private.

Lac d’Ilay is a natural glacial lake in the Jura department of France covering an area of around 72 hectares. It has the most idyllic turquoise waters with a little island in its center. Undulating hills form an attractive backdrop and given its vast size, even in high season, it’s a fairly tranquil spot. Swimming isn’t supervised here, so you completely feel like you’re at one with nature.

Lac d’Ilay, La Chaux-du-Dombief, France

https://www.instagram.com/p/BXnBsoyAatA/?taken-at=422740000

This is a really special spot in France. Straddling the Ardèche River, this natural bridge sees thousands of adventure lovers pass under its arch each year. If kayaking or hiking aren’t your scene, the banks on the Ardèche River make for the perfect cast-off spot for swimming. Another favourite area other than the Pont d’Arc on the same river is in the shadows of Balazuc village.

Pont d’Arc, Vallon-Pont-d’Arc, France

Lac d’Annecy

Lac d’Annecy has some of the purest waters in Europe and can reach 26 °C during the summer months. Bathing is, of course, on the cards, but if you’re after something more active, there is water skiing, windsurfing, diving and more. The old town of Annecy is to the north of the lake and the perfect place to make as your base during your exploration of the region.

Lac d’Annecy, France

Pont du Diable

There are lots of super swimming spots in the Languedoc , and one of them is a UNESCO World Heritage site, Pont du Diable (Devil’s bridge). Except for the stones, you’ll feel like you’re at a beach on the Mediterranean when wading through the waters. But when you look up, you’ll see rugged, hilly peaks punctuating the sky. Whilst there, don’t miss the other UNESCO World Heritage site in the area, the beautiful village of Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert.

Pont du Diable, Aniane, France

Lac de Gaube

Located in the Pyrenees is this magnificent lake with even more stunning backdrops. Even though it lies in a remote location, Lac de Gaube is very accessible and is often used as the starting point for a lot of the long-distance hiking routes that weave up into the mountain range. There is even a little cafe on the banks of the lake, with, as you can imagine, the most incredible views. Perfect for an after-swim refreshment.

Lac de Gaube, Cauterets, France

Clue d’Aiglun

A scenic (but incredibly small, so not for the faint-hearted) road takes you to this incredible spot in the South of France. It’s called balcony road, being that it hangs over the landscape. The green waters look striking against the white rocks, and at varying points throughout this stretch of water you’ll pass by kayakers and rock climbers. With potholing being a popular sport in this area, just make sure you know your route back up when descending into each mini canyon.

Clue d’Aiglun, Sallagriffon, France https://www.instagram.com/p/BXLmVyMDcQQ/?taken-at=398586247201229

Sillans-la-Cascade

Sillans-la-Cascade almost looks like a fantasy. So magical is this waterfall that the nearby village was named after it. The water is usually pretty nippy but provides a refreshing dip nonetheless, especially if visited during the summer months. If you’re not too keen on swimming, then there are amble hiking trails around the village and waterfalls to take in the beautiful scenery.

Sillans-la-Cascade, France

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• 10 best rivers & lakes for Wild swimming in France in 2024
• Last updated on 30 January 2024 .

10 best rivers & lakes for Wild swimming in France in 2024

Wild swimming places in france.

Every town and village that you pass through during the summer, you will see groups of teenagers heading out for rivers or lakes to cool off during the afternoon. These swimming spots have been in use for centuries and they were the only places that residents in the South of France could cool off during the long summers.

We have lived in the South of France for over 17 years now and during that time we have discovered some great places to take our 3 boys swimming during the hot summer months. Most of them we found by accident. Others we were told about by local residents. Here is the list of our 10 favourite places in South France for Wild Swimming .

1.) Wild swimming South of France - St Jean du Gard

The Abarines bridge was actually designed by François Bataille and took 2 years to construct and was completed in 1900. Bataille did have some dealings with Eiffel and he studied his work intensively (which is where the story about his involvement may have come about).

Even during the summer, the river never gets too busy and it is a great spot to cool down. The river is not too deep or fast flowing, so it is perfect for younger children. You will find a couple of river beaches where you can set up a picnic.

The Abarines bridge is located on the edge of the Lozere and Gard departments in South France. To reach the bridge, take the D50 road from Anduze (direction St Jean du Gard). About 5 kms after the village of Mialet, the road takes a sharp left turn over the River Gardon and here you will find the bridge. There are some parking spots by the edge of the road on the far side of the bridge. The scramble down over the rocks is a bit tricky in places, but there is also a well worn path.  I would certainly advise you to wander back into Anduze after a day on the river. It is a very pretty town further down the Gardon River and there are plenty of places to grab something to eat. The fabulous Bamboo Gardens are located in Anduze (see Bambouseraie ).

2.) Swimming lakes in South of France - Lac du Salagou

 But lots of people adore Salagou, especially our French customers. People come and spend their holidays nearby. Indeed the teacher of my eldest son even wrote a song about Salgou! Oh Salagou! Oh Salagou! - they still sing it in the car!!

It is a good spot for windsurfing and sailing and there is a good half day cycle trail around the shore. It is also the scene of a lot of Triathalon competitions. I think that the best place to base yourself is on the Octon side of the lake (the opposite direction to Clermont l'Herault).

You will find Lake Salagou close to the town of Clermont d'Hearault, just off the A75.

3.) Swimming lakes in France - Pont du Diable

The bridge dates back over 900 years and originally was built by monks from the nearby monasteries at Aniane and St Guilhem le Desert.

From the banks of the lake you can take out a canoe and paddle up the ravine under the Pont du Diable. You just need to be careful to avoid the crazy teenagers hurling themselves 30 foot down off the small road bridge into the river below. 

In the last few years a lot of money has been spent developing the surrounding area, including providing a large car park, a lovely visitor centre (where you can grab a cool beer and ice cream) and a life guard look out post.

We like to get to the lake for mid-afternoon and then head up to St Guilhem le Desert around 8.00pm for a Pizza in the square above the village. There tends to be less tourists around in the evening and it is nice and cool to stroll around the old streets - it really is an amazing spot.

The Pont du Diable is located 35kms north-west of Montpellier on the D27 between the villages of Aniane and St Guilhem le Desert. The nearest landmark is the Grotte de Clamouse underground cave centre.

4.) Wild swimming South of France - Gorge du Verdon

In France's equivalent of the Grand Canyon, you will find a turquoise blue river with plenty of shade from the surrounding cliffs. Hiring a canoe is an obvious choice as you can then paddle along the River Verdon to find a secluded river beach to base yourself. 

The Canyon is about 25 kilometres long and up to 700 metres deep. The most impressive part of the canyon can be found between the towns of Castellane and Moustiers-Sainte-Marie .

The Gorge du Verdon is located in the very north of the Var department, approximately 40kms north-west of Draguignan and 1.5 hours west of Cannes and Nice.

5.) Places for swimming South of France - Roquebrun

Roquebrun is one of the prettiest villages in Languedoc. Perched on the edge of the river Orb and framed by a giant rocky spur behind, Roquebrun is a great place to spend an afternoon. The river is slow-flowing and there is a little weir that you can slide down (our kids normally go down head first, but there again they are mad little buggers!!).

Roquebrun is located close to Saint Chinian, 25 mins north-west of Beziers .

6.) Wild swimming in France - Vallon Pont d'Arc du Ardeche

But be careful, the river is quite fast flowing and full of rocks. We drove to the Pont d'Arc one summer, but thankfully we arrived too late to hire a canoe here with our boys. The boys all kicked-off because we had just driven 2 hours and they wanted to canoe. So to placate them we took them further down river to where the Arch is located. That was when we saw a scene from Armageddon. All you could see in the water was lost paddles, upturned canoes, the odd person floating down with their life vests on. When we saw the people trying to navigate the rapids (unsuccessfully!!) we were rather pleased that we just elected for a quite paddle. It is not white water rafting style rapids, but it is not a quite paddle along the river either. Still the adrenaline junkies will love it.

Vallon Pont d'Arc is located close to the town of Vallon. Vallon Pont d'Arc is located 1 hour north-west of Orange in the Ardeche department.

7.) Swimming in waterfalls France - Gorges d'Heric

The Gorge is a great spot if you want to cool down in the summer and especially if you want to tire out your kids. After a day spent scrambling up and down rocks, they will sleep like Pandas on the way home.

The Gorge de Heric is located in the heart of the Languedoc National Park, close to the town of Lamalou-les-Bains and in between the villages of Le Poujol sur Orb and Olargues on the D908. There is a car park at the bottom of the Gorge (near the village of Mons-la-Trivalle).

8.) South France lakes for swimming - Lake Montbel

Lake Montbel is a centre for windsurfing. It also has a kiosk where you can hire pedalos (complete with water slides on the back. There is also a nice little beach-side shack where you can get a cheeky little beer or a cup of coffee.

The nearest village to Montbel is Chalabre. If you are heading out this way, make sure you go on a Monday and take in the excellent market at Mirepoix. Well worth the stop off. Montbel is 30 minutes due south of Carcassonne in the beautiful Arriege countryside.

9.) Places for swimming South of France - Pont du Gard

10.) lakes for swimming in south france - barrage des olivettes, vailhan, herault.

There are a number of picnic spots, but you probably need to arrive at dawn to grab one of the picnic tables. There is also an excellent restaurant here called L'Auberge du Presbytère .

To find the Barrage des Olivettes, you take a little track from the village of Roujan (which seemingly takes hours, but is only 5kms). By the time that you reach Vailhan you feel that you are at the end of the world.

Where to next . . . ?

Interested in visiting the South of France? Check out Where to stay in South of France

Check out the Pont du Gard aqueduct bridge to visit

Contact Iain by  Email  if you have any particular questions you would like to ask about visiting the South of France.  

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The Best Wild Swimming in France: 12 Most Beautiful Spots

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At the peak of summer in France, amidst the sweltering heat, the only thing you crave is to plunge into some refreshing cold water! And if that water happens to be sparkling clear, meandering through rock pools and cascading down waterfalls, that’s even better!

From secluded mountain lakes and rocky gorges to azure winding rivers, France boasts an abundance of breathtaking natural spots perfect for a refreshing dip.

Join us as we share practical information and the best wild swimming destinations across this picturesque country, where every plunge promises a moment of pure joy and connection with nature.

The Best Wild Swimming Spots in France

Wild swimming map.

How to use this map – Use your fingers (or computer mouse) to zoom in and out. Click or touch the icons to get more info about a place, and click the arrow in the box top left to open the index. To add to your own Google Maps account, click the star next to the title of the map.

Gorges du Verdouble, Duilhac-sous-Peyrepertuse, Aude

• Facilities: Toilet and in summer, food and ice cream kiosks.
• Swimming: Supervised in summer.
• Parking: There is a dedicated parking lot which costs € 7 per day and € 3 after 5pm.
• Ease of Access: You need to be happy walking over boulders to get the best swimming areas. You would benefit from shoes designed for slippery surfaces here, and be cautious after rain as the rocks can get very slippery.
• Best Time to Visit: Avoid weekends and school holidays. The best time to go on those days is after 5pm for an evening cool off.

Close to Peyrepertuse Castle on the Cathar Trail , Gorges du Verdouble is a stunning slim gorge with beautiful clear water and lots of different areas for swimming and jumping.

Made up of a small lake at the bottom of the Moulin de Ribaute waterfalls, you can swim in the lake or the many potholes created by the force of the water over millennia.

Walk around the large lake for the best spots and find a smooth rock to lay out on. Even on the hottest days, the water is very cold; the best tactic is just to jump in!  

You can also hike 4.9km to the Verdouble waterfalls by taking the marked Moulin de Ribaute trail, and you can even stop to swim on the way!

Is this your first time visiting France? Get all the information you need in our France Travel Guide , including what to pack, the best time of year to go, getting there and practical tips to help you have the best trip!

Gorge de Galamus, Saint-Paul-de-Fenouillet, Aude

• Facilities: Café and toilet at Parking No 2.
• Swimming: Not supervised and not encouraged, but there are always people swimming!
• Parking: There are four parking lots along the gorge, the best for wild swimming is parking no 2, where you can pick up the path down to the gorge.
• Ease of Access: You need to be happy walking down a rocky track to get to the gorge, and proper water shoes are a must.

One of the best places for wild swimming in the south of France, the Gorge de Galamus is blessed with crystal clear water, plunge pools, waterfalls, natural slides, and even natural jacuzzis. 

The gorge is well maintained but the narrow road to the gorge, with tunnels and overhanging rocks, can get very busy. There is a shuttle bus from Parking no 1 to Parking No 2 if you don’t want to drive the narrow road.

Galamus is a great place for canyoning, offered here in guided organized groups. It’s suitable for those with no experience and so much fun! Local companies offering canyoning trips include Nature Aventure and Oxygen Aventure .

There is also an abundance of hiking in the surrounding area, and the Ermitage Saint-Antoine de Galamus to visit.

RELATED POST: South of France Road Trip: Route, Highlights & Tips

Gorges d’Heric, Mons, Hérault

• Facilities: Café, bar, and toilet in the car park.
• Swimming: More lounging in potholes and pools along the gorge!
• Parking: There is a large car park which costs €3.50 Motorhomes and campervans are allowed to stay overnight for €10 and there is a dump station and fresh water tap available.
• Ease of Access: Easy to access, the road along the gorge is paved. Once you step off the road, you’ll be negotiating small slopes, boulders, and sand.

In the Parc Naturel Regional du Haut-Langeudoc is the stunning Gorge d’Heric. Here the Héric River rises to about 1,000 meters in altitude in the Espinousse mountain, part of the Massif du Caroux, to eventually plunge into the Orb River, creating the Gorge d’Heric as it goes. 

From the car park, it’s a 10 minute walk along the impressive gorge on a paved road until you reach the area with swimming spots, pools, waterfalls, and slides with the occasional small sandy beach.  

The water is clear and cool, but in some places, the water will warm nicely on a hot day.  No matter how busy the gorge is, you will be able to find somewhere private for your swim.  

You can also walk along the gorge for around 5km to reach the Pont d’Heric and the village of Heric. There are wild swimming opportunities along the whole route, some very secluded, meaning a bit of skinny dipping might be in order! In the village is a small café where you can get a cold drink and baguette for lunch.

From the car park, you can also hike the Sentier des Gardes to Col de Bartouyre on the western slope of Caroux. From the car park, you can also hike the  Sentier des Gardes  to Col de Bartouyre on the western slope of Caroux. It’s a challenging route but well worth the views of vast areas of unspoilt French countryside from the top.

RELATED POST: Off The Beaten Path France – 8 Unique Places

Pont du Diable, Hérault

• Facilities: Café, bar, shop, and toilet by the car park.
• Swimming: Swimming from the beach is supervised every day between 11am and 7pm, from 1st July 1 to 31st August every year.
• Parking: The Devil’s Bridge parking lot in Aniane costs €8 in high season and €4 in low season. There is a motorhome aire here with full services (not EHU) which costs €20 per day.
• Ease of Access: Easy to access, the track from the car park to the beach, from where you can access the gorge, is well maintained.

As the River Hérault comes rushing through its rocky narrow gorge and under the Pont du Diable (Devil’s Bridge) it slows and forms a small lake before moving on to the flat plains of Occitanie and eventually joining the Mediterranean Sea.   

There is a well-maintained river beach where there are kayaks, stand-up paddle boards and canoe rentals from  Canoës du Pont du Diable , based on the beach, or just swim.  

Local youths throw themselves from the bridge (although this is strictly forbidden)and from rocks around the bridge. After watching for a bit, we scrambled up the rocks and did the same! The water is clear and cool …this is the perfect spot for wild swimming in France.

Local youths throw themselves from the bridge (although this is strictly forbidden)and from rocks around the bridge. After watching for a bit, we scrambled up the rocks and did the same! The water is clear and cool …this is the perfect spot for wild swimming in France.

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Pont d’arc, vallon-pont-d’arc, ardeche.

• Facilities: First Aid Post, toilets, and kayak hire in summer. There are also toilets and a restaurant by the car park.
• Swimming: Supervised swimming in July and August from 12.30pm to 6.30pm every day on the upstream beach.
• Parking: Dedicated parking at Pont d’Arc Meandre car park. It costs €10 for 3 hours during July and August, and payment is by coin or card at a machine. There is a height restriction of 1.9m in place. Or, park in Vallon-Pont-d’Arc and use the free shuttle bus.
• Ease of Access: Easy to access, the track from the car park to the river beach is flat and graveled.

Flowing through the picturesque Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, the Ardèche River is a popular wild swimming spot. Renowned for clear waters fed by natural springs there are plenty of tranquil river beaches of the Ardèche, but Pont d’Arc is arguably the most famous.

Notable for the giant prehistoric arch that bridges the river, which also provides welcome shade on a sunny day and high canyon walls, this is a picture perfect place for wild swimming.

You can also hire kayaks on the beach (or bring your own) and paddle up or down river to find quieter spots.

If this spot is too busy for you, there are plenty of others along the river, including the Cirque de Gens in the Ardeche Gorges, the Labeaume Gorges, and the Chassezac Gorges.

Pont du Gard, Vers-Pont-du-Gard, Gard

• Facilities: Toilets in both car parks and various restaurants, cafés, and bars around the site.
• Parking: There is dedicated parking; Parking Rive Droit (the south) and Parking Rive Gauche (the north) plus roadside parking out of high season on the south side.
• Ease of Access: Easy to access, the tracks from the car parks to the beach are well maintained.

Just beneath the iconic Pont du Gard, an ancient Roman aqueduct bridge near Uzes, lie a few rocky and sandy beaches bordered by the gentle flow of the cool River Gardon.

The Pont du Gard is a favored destination for wild swimming enthusiasts. The river offers a shallow depth, and during summer, its waters are a lovely temperature for a refreshing dip.

Against the breathtaking backdrop, one can effortlessly float toward the river’s center, marveling at the colossal Roman engineering masterpiece towering above as it reaches 50 meters over the River Gardon.

You’ll need to buy a ticket to access the beaches around the bridge as the whole place is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It would be a shame not to visit the bridge after your swim!

River Cèze, Montclus, Gard

• Facilities: No facilities but there are cafés and toilets in the village.
• Swimming: No supervision, make sure water levels aren’t too high before you enter the water.
• Parking: There is dedicated parking for the village on the banks of the river. There is a small fee to pay, no more than a few euros.
• Ease of Access: Easy to access and very close to the car park.
• Best Time to Visit: Avoid weekends during the summer months when the parking will be busy.

Deep in Languedoc-Roussillon, Montclus is a beautiful spot, one of France’s Plus Beau Villages. Surrounded by vineyards and lavender fields, the village and its river are a tranquil place to spend the day.

The River Cèze passes the village as it burbles over rocks and through deep pools, clear and inviting. There are a number of small pebbled river beaches from which you can swim, dip, and cool off on a hot day.  

Exploring Montclus won’t take too long! The village centre is made up of steep cobbled alleys lined with traditional stone houses and pretty views out across the countryside and river valley. In the centre is a 13th century castle with a square keep and high stone walls that’s well worth visiting.

Lac de St Croix, Var & Alpes-de-Haute-Provence

• Facilities: There are cafés and toilets in and around the car park and also in the village.
• Swimming: Simmer time supervision village of St Croix beaches only.
• Parking: There is dedicated parking for the village beaches. For the Galetas Bridge beach, park a few hundred meters away in the bridge car park.
• Ease of Access: The village beaches are easy to access and very close to their car parks. Galetas requires a little more effort.

France has many artificial lakes, to store water and generate electricity and the Lac de St Croix in Provence is one of its largest. 

Head for the village of St Croix and follow the signs to the lake. There are a few river beaches and places for launching your kayak or SUP below the village. Another popular spot is Les Salles sur Verdon on the opposite side of the lake, or to get closer to the gorge, head for the beach at the foot of Galetas Bridge.

For a quieter experience, Bauduen Plage is on the lake’s southeast shore and has some good boulders for jumping and a good beach.

If you want to get into the Gorge du Verdon, which hosts the Verdon River, you’ll need to hire a kayak, canoe, paddleboard, or day boat. Once in the gorge, with its steep-sided walls, you can take a dip from your craft.

Wherever you look, the scenery is simply stunning, and the water is a sparkling turquoise, warm and welcoming.

Lac de Gaube, Cauterets, Hautes-Pyrenees

• Facilities: There is a small hotel and a very dubious toilet at the end of the trail as you reach the lake.
• Swimming: There is no supervision. People do ask if swimming is allowed in Gaube Lake, but there are no signs forbidding it. But, you are in a remote spot, so don’t take any risks if you’re not a confident swimmer.
• Parking: There is parking at the trailhead at Pont d’Espagne, where the cable car also departs and arrives.
• Ease of Access: The hike is moderately easy and the cable car and chair lift will take you a 15 minute walk from the lake.
• Best Time to Visit: Go any time, Lac de Gaube is huge and although you’ll meet people there in the summer, it never feels crowded.

The distinctive Lac de Gaube in the Parc National des Pyrenees is one of the most beautiful lakes in France, surrounded by towering mountains and alpine meadows.

It is hikeable or accessible by cable car and chairlift and has plenty of great places where you can get in for a dip. The lake is gorgeous shades of emerald and turquoise, with the rocks visible well into the deep. But be warned, it’s cold even in summer – you are at 1725m above sea level!

RELATED POST: Lac de Gaube – A Breathtaking French Pyrenees Hike

Lac d’Ilay, La Chaux-du-Dombief, Jura

• Facilities: There are no facilities at the lake. There are toilets and cafés in both Dombief and Le Frasnois.
• Swimming: There is no supervision here.
• Parking: Head for Parking Nord du lac d’Ilay, a free car park where you can also stay overnight in a campervan.
• Ease of Access: Easy access, it’s a few minutes walk along a flat track.

Well off the beaten track in the Jura region lies a chain of glittering azure lakes. Hidden gems in their own right, they offer serene settings ideal for a refreshing swim.

Lac d’Ilay is the largest and shallowest, boasting warm waters and a grassy shore leading to a sandy beach. Adjacent, Lac de Narlay has a lakeside campsite and a secluded cliff spot perfect for daring jumps and dives.

We would recommend the northern end of the lake as a good spot, where you can park and take a short walk along a track to a chain of small beaches that line this end of the lake. Many of the spots are just big enough for a few people, so get there early if you’re planning on spending the day.

RELATED POST: France Road Trip – 13 Amazing Itineraries/#route-des-lacs

Lac d’Annecy, Annecy, Haute-Savoie

• Facilities: Many of Annecy’s beaches have great facilities, but all are different so check first.
• Swimming: Some beaches have supervised swimming in summer, check first if this is important.
• Parking: There is good parking all around the lake and near lakeside beaches.
• Ease of Access: Usually access to Lac d’Annecy beaches is easy.
• Best Time to Visit: Go in summer for the best water temperatures. Outside of the summer months, you may need a wetsuit.

Lake Annecy, the second largest lake in France, has a reputation as being the cleanest lake in Europe which makes it a great spot for wild swimming.

During the peak summer months of July and August, the water temperature of Lake Annecy can reach around 24° Celcius | 75° Fahrenheit, and the water stays warm well into September and October.

There are too many beaches around Lake Annecy to list here, but suffice to say, whatever your needs there’s a beach here that’s perfect for you!

River Tarn, Cevennes

• Facilities: Most of Tarn’s river beaches have no facilities, relying on local towns and villages for services.
• Swimming: These beaches are not supervised.
• Parking: There is usually parking in the nearby village or along the roadside nearby.
• Ease of Access: If you’re using a village beach, access is usually good, but some of the more remote beaches may require a hike and trails may not be well maintained.
• Best Time to Visit: Go in summer for the best water temperatures and seek out peaceful places away from the drowds.

In the mountains of the Cévennes, you are in the wild heart of Southern France. The Tarn River flows through breathtaking gorges and around river beach bends providing many opportunities for wild swimming.  There are an abundance of good places to get your toes into the water, but these are our favorites:

Castelbouc: Perched precariously against the cliffside of the Tarn gorge, this quaint village offers proximity to the river beach.

Cocurès: A stunning stretch of deep water river gorge awaits, complete with opportunities for exhilarating jumps and flat rocks perfect for sunbathing.

Cascade de Runes: Nestled in a beautiful setting along the upper Tarn, this picturesque double waterfall cascades into inviting pools, creating a serene retreat.

Le-Pont-de-Montvert: Near the heart of the village lies a gouffre , or chasm, brimming with emerald waters, beckoning visitors to its tranquil depths.

Les Détroits: Within this narrower section of the gorge, towering cliffs cast shadows over deep waters, providing a dramatic backdrop to your swimming session.

Cascade de Tapoul: Tucked away, this remote waterfall unveils its beauty through deep plunge pools, offering a peaceful spot for a wild swim.

Bonheur Pools: Emerging from underground caves, the deep-blue waters of these polished granite pools provide a refreshing oasis on a hot day.

If you’re looking for more wild swimming spots in France, the second edition of Wild Swimming France: 1000 Most Beautiful Rivers, Lakes, Waterfalls, Hot Springs and Natural Pools of France by Tania Pascoe and Daniel Start is a brilliant buy!

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Home » Travel Guides » France » 15 Best Things to Do in Tours (France)

15 Best Things to Do in Tours (France)

It’s no mystery that Tours is a favourite base for people discovering the Loire Valley’s exalted châteaux.

Villandry, Chenonceau and Amboise are moments by car, and with the help of the Loire à Vélo network you can visit them on two wheels with ease.

But you may find that if you delve a little more into Tours’ history and attractions, it could be difficult to leave the city at all.

In the centre are timber houses and renaissance mansions on car-free streets, and museums that draw you into the city’s medieval past.

There are vineyards welcoming inquisitive oenophiles in the countryside and both the waters and banks of the Loire invite you to go wherever your sense of curiosity leads.

Lets explore the best things to do in Tours :

1. Tours Cathedral

Even by the glacial speed of construction in the middle ages, Tours Cathedral took a long time to be completed.

Building began in 1170 and wouldn’t be finished until 1547, but this means we’re met with a perfect summary of the evolution of gothic art.

The ensemble of original 13th-century stained glass windows in the ambulatory chapels and above the choir is one of the finest in France, and seems to generate its own light.

The cathedral has information panels giving you the meaning behind each image.

The marble renaissance tombs of King Charles VIII and Anne of Brittany’s children are also moving, as both died in infancy.

2. Musée des Beaux-Arts de Tours

The riches from Cardinal Richelieu’s 17th-century campaign against the Huguenots and the art seized from abbeys during the Revolution all ended up at Tours’ stellar museum of fine art.

Because of their religious source there’s a good body of Italian gothic primitives from the 14th and 15th centuries, while the two renaissance paintings by Andrea Mentegna are regarded as masterpieces.

You’ve got over a thousand artworks to get through, with sculpture by Rodin, Flemish and Dutch painting by Rembrandt and Rubens, and Impressionism by Monet and Degas.

3. Tours Botanical Garden

The city’s municipal garden has a bit of a troublesome setting, between the Loire and Cher, which made it susceptible to flooding in the past, with two devastating inundations in the mid-19th century that filled the greenhouses with two metres of water.

Even after being hit by bombs in the Second World War there isn’t the slightest hint of a troubled past at these serene gardens.

On your walk you may notice some trees you haven’t seen before, like the Chinese empress tree, ginkgo biloba and the endangered dawn redwood.

The animal park is from 1863 and has farm animals for kids to bond with, as well as more exotic species like wallabies.

4. Le Vieux Tours

Like all the best historic city centres the historic buildings on the pedestrian streets around Place Plumereau aren’t sterile museum pieces but vibrant cornerstones of local life, used as shops, restaurants and bars.

Place de Plumereau is at the nerve centre of one of the largest conservation areas in Europe, with renaissance mansions boasting sculpted reliefs or cantilevered timber houses, going strong for hundreds of years.

If you’re OK with everybody knowing you’re a tourist, jump aboard the little train that departs every hour from Place Plumereau in summer.

5. Musée du Compagnonnage

In the 16th-century Dormitory at the former Abbey of Saint-Julien is a museum devoted to a French workers’ movement that dates back to medieval times.

Roughly, the Compagnons du Tour de France is like a guild of journeymen that preserves historic trades and educates young people about them as part of an apprenticeship.

To complete the apprenticeship and become a “companion” a craftsman had to create a masterpiece for whatever discipline he worked in.

And these dumbfounding creations are presented at the museum, in all kinds of different disciplines, like metalwork, tailoring, shoemaking and woodcarving.

6. Hôtel Goüin

What may be the most beautiful of Tours’ many old building has just come through a long restoration and is open to the public once more.

Hôtel Goüin is an early-renaissance palace on Rue du Commerce, with a balustraded porch and the sort of loggia in which you might expect to see Juliet calling for Romeo.

During the restoration they unearthed fragments of an older building from the 1100s, with four arches and a well, which are on show.

You might just want to stop for a photo of that magnificent facade, but there’s an archaeological museum inside with artefacts from Roman times up to the 1800s.

7. Halles de Tours

Billed as the “Belly of Tours” (ventre de Tours), the city’s indoor market may not be France’s largest, but it’s a gastronome’s idea of heaven.

You may even want to bring your camera or have your phone at the ready, because the cheese, charcuterie, seafood and in-season fruit and vegetable counters are presented with real flair.

If you’re stuck for gift ideas then markets like this tick the box as they’re stocked with all the best from the region.

At Tours that entails wine from the Loire Valley and luxury chocolate.

The city is one of France’s chocolate capitals, and every years holds the Salon du Chocolat de Tours at the Centre de Congrès Vinci.

Come for lunch too: The oyster bar shucks your oyster as you go.

8. Jardin des Prébendes d’Oé

During the French Second Empire from the mid-1800s English-style parks like this one popped up in provincial cities across France.

This was a spot for urban families to take promenades, kids to play and for the city to put on outdoor concerts at the park’s gazebo.

There’s less of the formality of French parterres, as paths weave through tulip flowerbeds and  copses of lime, plane, cedar, chestnut and lofty redwood trees.

So if you could do with a moment of repose take a wander by the pond and pause for a tea or coffee at the kiosk.

On warmer days you could load up on cheese and charcuterie at the market and have the perfect French picnic.

9. Église Saint-Julien de Tours

The predecessors of this  12th-century abbey were wrecked by the Normans in the 9th century and then in a war between the feudal houses of Blois and Anjou in the 10th century.

But miraculously the building that followed has survived everything from the French Revolution to the Second World War.

It was part of a long-gone abbey, and the garden next to the church is where the cloister used to be, while the Musée de Compagnonnage occupies the old dormitory.

10. “Toue” River Cruises

Commercial craft floated along the Loire and Cher since antiquity, hauling people, wine, silk, lumber, salt and all sorts of other cargo up and down these rivers.

Because the waterways can get very shallow they used flat-bottomed sailboats called “toues”, and you can too! Toues can carry between 12 and 30 passengers for hour-long trips, or even romantic dinner cruises in the evening.

Their skippers know these waters and banks like the backs of their hands: And with the deck as your balcony, they’ll shed light on the Tours’ river trade, its many colourful characters and perils.

11. Loire à Vélo

If you had to picture some quintessentially French holiday activities, a bike ride next to the Loire with a backdrop of gentle vine-striped hills and châteaux must be one of the first that comes to mind.

About 150km of the of the Loire à Vélo cycle trail’s totalling 800km are in the Touraine region.

The route is clearly-marked, easy -going because it never leaves the riverside and convenient as there are dozens of hire stations along the way.

You could give yourself set destinations like Amboise or Villandry, which are both reachable in about an hour.

Or make more of an adventure of it by going further afield and spending the night at the inns on the route that are happy to accommodate cyclists.

12. Guinguette sur Loire

On the left bank of the Loire, just by Pont Wilson, is where Tours’ “Guinguette” takes place from May to September.

It isn’t officially summer in Tours until this outdoor café by the river is bustling every evening with locals and tourists at the bar terrace, taking part in dance lessons, enjoying concerts or watching movies at the outdoor cinema.

Tours is a student city so the atmosphere is always warm and energetic.

The location is wonderful, under willow trees and string lights, with the river rolling past.

And every year there Guinguette has something new on the schedule.

13. Wine and Gastronmic Visits

If you’re a wine-lover you’ve come to the right place.

There’s an absurd amount of AOCs nearby: A dozen within an hour, and five bordering the city.

The diversity will make your head spin more than the wine itself, with the reds of Touraine-Chenonceau, the whites of Touraine Sauvignon and rosés made in Touraine noble joué.

When it comes to precious foodstuffs there’s a saffron market in Preuilly-sur-Claise and a seasonal truffle market at Marigny-Marmande.

The local cheese, Sainte-Maure-de-Touraine is known to all for its cylindrical shape and the straw that pierces it through the centre.

To know more, pay a visit to the dairy at Les Passerelles or the child-friendly goat farm, Cabri au Lait, which makes Sainte-Maure but also has a petting zoo for the little guys and girls.

14. Château de Villandry

It would be criminal to visit Tours and not call in at one of the abundant château in the region.

Tours is touted as a gateway for these sensational pieces of French royal or noble heritage.

You can reach Villandry in 20 minutes, and it’s one of the finest.

The gardens are the showstopper at this château.

They were restored at the turn of the century by the Spanish doctor Joachim Carvallo.

He conceived several terraces of renaissance gardens, all with precisely trimmed boxwood hedges in joyous geometric configurations.

There’s a water garden, labyrinth, sun garden, ornamental garden with high hedges, but the most astounding is the formal medieval kitchen garden, all in neat plots.

15. Château d’Amboise

The home of Francis I and most of the French royalty in the 16th century is a 20-minute car or train ride to the east.

The château had its heyday in the renaissance period after Charles VIII turned it from a fortress into the Loire valley’s first Italian-style palace in the late-1400s.

In 1516 Francis I invited Leonardo da Vinci to live and work in Amboise, and the polymath’s home at Clos Lucé was actually connected to the Château d’Amboise by underground passageways that you can discover today by prior arrangement.

Da Vinci died here in 1519 and is buried at the Chapel of Saint-Hubert at the Château.

The gardens are embellished with spherical topiaries and the views from this spur above the Loire are divine.

15 Best Things to Do in Tours (France):

• Tours Cathedral
• Musée des Beaux-Arts de Tours
• Tours Botanical Garden
• Le Vieux Tours
• Musée du Compagnonnage
• Hôtel Goüin
• Halles de Tours
• Jardin des Prébendes d'Oé
• Église Saint-Julien de Tours
• "Toue" River Cruises
• Loire à Vélo
• Guinguette sur Loire
• Wine and Gastronmic Visits
• Château de Villandry
• Château d'Amboise

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• Australia edition
• Europe edition

10 of the best swimming holidays around the world

Whether it’s wild swimming in lakes and fjords, a sea ‘safari’ in Crete, or a 6km swim in the warm waters of Mexico’s Baja peninsula, this selection of swims (and stays) is a stroke of genius

Exploring the Baja peninsula, Mexico

With water temperatures of 27C, the Sea of Cortez is so warm that, as SwimTrek puts it, “you’ll feel like you’re swimming in the bath”. Expect to feel comfortable out of the water too, spending a week sleeping in glamping-style bell tents with solar-heated showers, and enjoying fresh local food and cocktails rustled up by your team chef. Each day the swim covers 6km, passing the cliff faces and beaches of this Unesco-protected area, with plenty of opportunity to borrow sea kayaks, paddleboards or snorkels and immerse yourself in the diverse marine life. Seven days from £1,170, swimtrek.com

The Minoan Trail, Crete

The Big Blue Swim spent two years planning this series of swims that involves a six-day sea safari along the wild coastline of south Crete: a landscape that forms the backdrop to well-known myths and history. Starting in the village of Sfakia the journey is eastwards along rugged coastline, exploring caves and remote beaches and passing ancient ruins and churches – loading up on energy with delicious meals at local tavernas. There’s also the option of receiving filmed swimming analysis and coaching sessions, as well as the chance to hone your breathing technique with the help of a yoga specialist. Six days, £660, thebigblueswim.com

Snorkelling in Sri Lanka

Diveworld’s 10-day “liveaboard” tour offers the chance to swim in Sri Lanka’s tropical waters and get a close-up view of sea life, including whales and dolphins. The trips, which begin in September, use the newly built Sri Lanka Aggressor, a 44-metre yacht that has air-conditioned cabins, a dive-deck lounge, barbecue area and swim deck. The inaugural whale and dolphin snorkelling trip will set sail from the historic port of Trincomalee in eastern Sri Lanka and sea-life spotting will be under the watchful gaze of renowned naturalist Howard Martenstyn . 10 days from £2,455pp, including return flights from the UK, accommodation, transfers and diving, 01962, 302087, diveworldwide.com

Swim camp holiday, Poros Island, Greece

Casual dippers need not apply because one of the main rules of this swim camp is that it’s about putting in the hard lengths. Actually, this trip is aimed at those training for events and those new to open-water swimming who want try it in the warmer ripples of the Mediterranean. The seven-night break is based on the Saronic island of Poros, 50km south-west of Athens, and includes seven swims under the guidance of a professional trainer, as well as two video analysis sessions focusing on technique. Daily breakfasts are provided, as well as five lunches and four evening meals. Don’t worry about not enjoying the island’s scenic splendours as the sessions start from Askeli beach or, after a water taxi trip, from the uninhabited islands of Modi and Castle Island. Seven nights from £950pp (excluding flights, transfers and ferry to Poros), 020-3750 2455, vidados.com

Weekend swim trip in Lago d’Orta, Italy

The motto of this weekend break – based at the Locanda Riviere hotel on the shores of Lago d’Orta in northern Italy – is “good food, beautiful surroundings and glorious, relaxed swimming”. It sounds a perfect mix. The swimming aspect comes with one-to-one coaching, video analysis, plus guides (and a safety boat) on hand. Swimming distances are increased over the duration of the trip, from 800m up to 2km and the weekend finishes with a swim around the island of Orta San Giulio: the Basilica di San Giulio and the mid-19th century seminary on the island were transformed into a Benedictine monastery in 1976. 7-10 October 2016, £670pp including B&B accommodation, swimquest.uk.com

Swimming adventures in Oman fjords

The Musandam peninsula in the Persian Gulf is a glorious wilderness, with dramatic red rock formations and dark blue waters, and has earned the nickname “the Norway of Arabia”. This adventurous tour explores that wilderness, with its many sea inlets, where you’re more likely to run into a dolphin than a fellow tourist. And how many swim tours come with your own dhow to have lunch on? Six days from £1,140, swimtrek.com

Wild swimming, north Wales

Anglesey, the lakes of Snowdon, or “anywhere in north Wales” might be the location for your time with Gone Swimming, a small company with big ambitions for tailoring its outdoor swimming holidays and day trips to your ability level and interests. Spaces are still available on its Wet Weekend three-day swimming break from 19-21 August (£250pp including expert guides, accommodation and food) but the company also offers group days out and private booking options. The first of these, open to anyone and branded Adventure Together, is aimed at groups of no more than seven, and the £60pp covers transport, a guided swim, changing robe, wetsuit hire, lunch, snacks and hot drinks. The Just Us private booking allows you to decide as much or as little of the excursion and costs £275 for up to four, then £65 per additional person. 07547 652821, goneswimming.co.uk

Fjord and cove swimming, Montenegro

The coastline of Montenegro is stunning and this tour takes in the Unesco-protected Gulf of Kotor, the clear waters of the Blue Grotto cave and Mamula island, known as the Montenegrin Alcatraz. There are also visits to picturesque towns found among the mountains on this week-long trip, which offers 4km of swimming a day and accommodation in a four-star hotel. Non-swimmers can join in a kayak, and beginners can combine shorter swims with walking and sightseeing. With this in mind, it’s a great compromise if you or your partner is less keen to commit to a holiday that’s completely swim-focused. Seven days from £786, strel-swimming.com

Lake swims and relaxing stays, Great Yarmouth, Norfolk

Plunge into Fritton Lake and the choice is yours: have a fun dip or challenge yourself to put in proper distances, like some of the swimmers who use it to prepare for triathlons or swimming the Channel. Fritton Lake Outdoor Centre is in the grounds of Fritton Lake country park, itself part of the 5,000-acre Somerleyton Hall estate, and hosts weekly swim sessions – year-round, for those who want a winter swim. Pay-as-you-go swim sessions cost £6 once you’ve paid a £10 registration fee (which includes one free swim), but pre-pay for multiple sessions and the price drops. Effort expended, it may be a tempting book into the Fritton Arms at the lakeside (doubles from £130 B&B). The hotel has nine bedrooms, is surrounded by parkland, and holds out the promise of an Italian wood-fired oven, which the kitchen says can roast anything from fresh pizza to Porterhouse steaks.

Glacial lake challenge, Annecy, France

Swimquest has a range of indulgent swimming holidays, including six days swimming around islets in Thailand and a swim tour around the coral reefs of the Maldives with a 32-metre yacht as a base. A bit more accessible, with perhaps a chance to meet more like-minded people, is its trip to Lake Annecy in France, where on this four-day trip you’ll take on the 14.6km swim across the huge glacial lake, either as a solo swimmer or in a relay, depending on your ability. And there’s time to relax in the tranquil Alpine surroundings either side of the marathon swim. From £595, swimquest.uk.com

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San Francisco’s restaurant scene: no such thing as a bad lunch

Escape from Alcatraz: a swim from the Rock to San Francisco

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Gay San Francisco: a guide to clubs, bars, drag shows and queer culture

In love with winter swimming: ‘I like to feel the elements on my skin. It’s nourishing’

10 of the best long-haul adventure holidays

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France Introduces New, 9-day Tour for March 2023: the “Giant Open”

The FFN has replaced the Golden Tour with the new, innovative, "Giant Open" that features six days of racing over a 9-day period in March.

by Anne Lepesant 1

February 07th, 2023 Europe , International , News

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The French Swimming Federation (“FFN”) has announced its inaugural Giant Open tour, a nine-day, three-stop “tour de France” that will take place from March 11, 2023, to March 19, 2023, and feature six days of racing in three of the Hexagon’s most iconic swim cities: Marseille, Nice, and Paris.

At first blush, the Giant Open looks like a shortened version of the Golden Tour. After all, the first two stops will be Marseille’s “MOM” (or “Meeting Open Méditerranée”) and Nice’s “Meeting Camille Muffat,” much as they have been for the last ten years. But these first two meets serve as qualifiers for the third meet, called the “Finale Giant Open” which is the only meet in the series where prize money will be awarded.

• March 11-12: Meeting Open Méditerranée (Marseille)
• March 15-16: Meeting Camille Muffat (Nice)
• March 18-19: Finale Giant Open (Saint Germain-en-Laye)

FFN has given the series an overhaul, promising high-level racing with an innovative format. Jacco Verhaeren , the former Australian national team head coach who was named Performance Director at the FFN in June 2021, told SwimSwam, “I talk to the [French] coaches regularly, and they were looking for a change that would make it more exciting, more challenging. We took the opportunity to change the format of this competition. We’re now having three meets in a row, because we also wanted to practice racing over a longer time period. It’s more intense than just doing one weekend. It requires remaining focused” over the nine days, which is the same time frame as the Olympic swimming program.

“We were trying to accomplish several things: keeping the athletes focused; getting used to not having the same event at every meet; practicing doubles; and adding a learning opportunity for athletes. The more they race, the more they learn. Why not push yourself a little further than just heats and finals? These are practice meets but with a challenge, as well. You do 50s and 100s in training; why not do them in competition, in addition to your regular program?”

In order to be eligible to win prize money (the purse for this inaugural series is 100,000 €), swimmers will need to finish among the top-eight in an event from the first two stops. Verhaeren explained, “The program is different in Marseille than it is in Nice. Not every event is swum every two days, which is very different. Also, for the 100s, we’ll have heats, semi-finals, and finals, but in one night. We want to create opportunities so that people can swim back-to-back races. When you are swimming at World Championships or European Championships, you have individual events, but you also have relays. For the 50s, we’ll have heats, quarter-finals, semis, and finals. It’s kind of like skins but there is more rest in between. But not every event is at every meet, so it is spread out over the four days. For the 200s and 400s, it will be heats and finals, and for the 800 and 1500, we will have timed finals.”

Program – Qualifying Stops

“In Paris, there will be only finals. We will take the results of the first two meets and whoever is in the top 8 of an event, they will swim directly in the A final. But there will be other swimmers in Paris, too. For 50s and 100s, we have B, C, and D finals; 200s, C finals; and 400, 800, and 1500, B finals. So pretty much everyone who races in the first four days will qualify; but it depends on your level whether you swim in the A, B, C, or D final. The aim is to offer the swimmers something else than just heats and finals and the same program every two days.”

Qualifying Times (LCM)

Program – finale at saint germain-en-laye.

The entry period runs from February 3 to March 3. French swimmers can enter through the FFN portal, while international swimmers must contact [email protected] .

1 Leave a Reply

Great idea. Love the creativity –> purpose driven –> recognizing new era of the sport.

Will give athletes and coaches a lot to learn from.

It’s not just the nine day meets. It’s the shorter and shorter turnarounds from one final to another. Summer McIntosh’s IE-to-free relay at Comm Games shifted a lot of people’s thinking. Was it 10 minutes? To me, that was the most interesting event of the past season. It’s like she created her own personal skins, lol.

About Anne Lepesant

Anne Lepesant is the mother of four daughters, all of whom swam in college. With an undergraduate degree from Princeton (where she was an all-Ivy tennis player) and an MBA from INSEAD, she worked for many years in the financial industry, both in France and the U.S. Anne is currently …

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Swimming reviews & ratings, above our expectation.

It was a marvellous trip for us in Indochina. Everything was above our expectations except for the vegetarian food for my wife. The itinerary was perfectly organised...

Good choice to South East Asia

I will HIGHLY recommend this tour to my family, friends and work colleagues who are thinking about travelling to Vietnam and South East Asia – and will personally re...

Fanstastic itinerary

Wow!  I couldn’t have asked for a better trip!  Thank you so much. The cities were fantastic as were the rural and water based adventures. The tours and gu...

Warmest greetings from Australia

We made it back to Australia and our home town safe and sound. It is a three hour drive to my home town from Brisbane and I didn’t think it was safe for me to make ...

Best travel consultant ever

All of the tour guides were brilliant – Tony in Hanoi and Sody in Cambodia were my personal faves. All the guides spoke very good English, were very friendly, court...

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Swimming Holidays

Here’s where I’m building a list of companies that organise swimming holidays.

Australian Swimming Holiday Companies

Ocean swim safaris.

Offering organised swimming holidays in: Australia New Zealand Indonesia Tonga Spain Fiji The Philippines

Check out the Ocean Swim Safaris website here.

Follow Ocean Swim Safaris on Instagram here:

          View this post on Instagram                   ‪The one (one of the ones) that got away… #ossTonga #Tonga #humpback #whales #swim #ocean #openwater #Pacific #holidays #vacations #trek #wild #Neiafu ‬ A post shared by Paul Ellercamp (@oceanswimsafaris) on Aug 1, 2019 at 9:35pm PDT

Oceanfit Swim Tours

This Sydney-based company offers ocean swim training and then weekends away and longer swimming tours to Queensland, New Zealand and Fuji.

Check out the swim tours webpage at Oceanfit here.

Aquatravel by SwimWell

This Total Immersion swim coaching business has swim training camps and also plans annual swimming holidays to the Amalfi Coast, Italy.

Check out the Italian swimming holidays here.

Cousins Swimming Tours

Cousins organises swimming holidays in Italy, Turkey, Greece, Thailand and Spain and can help with planning tours to the major swimming events in many other country.

Find the Cousins Swimming Tours website here.

Live Ningaloo – Swim With Whale Sharks in Exmouth WA

Click the link below to read about day trips to swim with whale sharks.

Swim With Whale Sharks in Exmouth WA

Swimming Women – WA Holidays

Check out these holidays at Rottnest Island and Margaret River from Swimming Women.

UK Swimming Holidays Companies

A long-established swimming holiday company with a vast array of trips on offer: Scotland England Ireland Europe Maldives Galapagos Oman Egypt Canary Islands Russia Caribbean

Check out the Swim Trek website here.

Follow Swim Trek on Instagram here:

          View this post on Instagram                   Due to the fantastic response we’ve had to our adventurous Vietnam trip, we’re delighted to say we’ll be running an additional departure in April 2020!  A post shared by SwimTrek Swimming Holidays (@swimtrek) on Aug 12, 2019 at 9:42am PDT

This is a large companies offering dozens of swimming holidays to diverse locations. You can swim in:

Scotland South Africa France Lanzarote Bahamas Croatia Fiji The Scilly Isles The Maldives (The Maldives!!!!!) Greece Channel Island Italy Norway The Philippines

Find the Swim Quest website here

Follow Swim Quest on Instagram here:

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by SwimQuest (@swimquestholidays) on May 17, 2019 at 1:21am PDT

Strel Swimming Adventures

With offices in England and the USA, Strel organised swimming holidays in Europe and the US, with many Meditarranean liveaboard options available.

Find the Strel Swimming Adventures website here.

Greek Swimming Holiday Companies

The big blue swim.

This specialist Greek swimming company runs swimming holidays in several locations in Greece including Santorini, Crete and the Ionian Island.

Tour groups are of around 14 swimmers.

Swimming tours run generally from May to October each year.

Read the Big Blue Swim website here.

Follow Big Blue Swim on Instagram here:

          View this post on Instagram                   Always more to explore! #exploringthesea #pioners #adventurers #adventureswimmingholidays #adventureswimming #thebigbluesea A post shared by The Big Blue Swim (@thebigblueswim) on Jul 27, 2019 at 9:01am PDT

Do you know of others? This is a post which will expand and expand, please do reply in the comments with companies you know about so that they can be added.

Happy splashing!

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Winter Swimming

Paris dream of swimming in the Seine finally within reach

Paris (AFP) – Going for a dip in the Seine on a hot summer's day has been the pipedream of many a Parisian since swimming in the river was formally banned a century ago.

Issued on: 25/04/2024 - 04:11

But floating on your back under the Eiffel Tower could very soon become reality thanks to the Paris Olympics.

The river will be the star of the opening ceremony of the Games on July 26 and will host the triathlon and the swimming marathon. Then, if all goes well, next summer Parisians and tourists will be able to dive in too.

Like Zurich and Munich before it, Paris has been reclaiming its river with one of three new urban "beaches" to open under the windows of its historic town hall next year, with another almost at the foot of the Eiffel Tower.

Nearly 30 more -- complete with pontoons, showers and parasols -- are planned for the suburbs and along the Marne, which flows into the Seine just east of the French capital.

Once regarded as an open-air dump, former French president Jacques Chirac first floated the idea of swimming in the Seine in 1990.

But it was the current mayor Anne Hidalgo who really ran with the idea, making it a pillar of her Olympic bid in 2016.

Some 1.4 billion euros has been spent on colossal public works to counter pollution, with Hidalgo vowing to swim in the Seine herself in late June. French President Emmanuel Macron says he too will take the plunge -- but is coy about saying exactly when.

For many it feels like a long-held fantasy is finally within reach -- a return to an 18th-century idyll when Parisians splashed naked in the Seine.

Failed water quality tests

But there is a big if to all this: the sometimes sharp fluctuations in the Seine's water quality after storms.

Disastrous Olympic test events last August have raised doubts over whether the triathletes and marathon swimmers will be allowed to race for gold in the river.

Most of the events had to be cancelled because the water failed to meet European standards on two bacterias found in faeces.

Unusually violent downpours and a faulty valve in the sewage system were blamed.

But it prompted the reigning Olympic marathon champion Ana Marcela Cunha to call for a "plan B".

"The health of athletes should come before everything," the Brazilian great told AFP.

What happened to lifeguard Gaelle Deletang will not reassure her.

The 56-year-old, a member of the French capital's aquatic civil defence team, got "diarrhoea and a rash" after swimming in the Seine in central Paris this winter, with the river looking decidedly brown in March as flood water poured over some of its banks.

Several other volunteers "had a bug for three weeks... and everyone had stomach upsets", she added.

Young adventurer Arthur Germain -- who happens to be the mayor of Paris's son -- also came across "zones where I had trouble breathing" from both industrial and agricultural pollution when he swam the whole 777-kilometre length of the Seine in 2021.

In deepest rural Burgundy -- days before he got anywhere near Paris -- he measured levels of faecal matter well above EU limits for swimming. Further north he swam past farmers spraying pesticides by the riverbank.

His "worst day", however, was a few kilometres downstream from the capital as he passed a sewage works at Gennevilliers.

Sofas, scooters and corpses

Yet there was progress in the summer of 2022, when the Seine passed EU water quality tests at three test points in Paris, only to fail at all 14 in the capital last year.

With five big anti-pollution plants due to come on stream in the weeks leading up to the Games, Paris mayor Hidalgo was bullish on Tuesday, saying the "quality of the water will be right up there.

"We are going to make it despite all the scepticism," she declared.

His 20-metre (65-foot) catamaran Belenos sucks up rubbish from dead leaves and plastic bags to bicycles.

Delorme, 36, has seen it all. "Scooters, sofas, dead animals, and once or twice a year, human corpses. You get used to it," he told AFP.

But year after year, the rubbish the boat hoovers up has been falling, from a high of 325 tonnes to 190 tonnes in 2020.

The push to make the Seine swimmable for the Olympics has accelerated a French government plan to limit waste water and sewage getting into both it and the river Marne.

A 2018 law obliges the boats and barges that line the Seine to be hooked up to the city's sewers to stop them flushing directly into the river. Officials said by March almost all were following the rules.

"Uncontrolled flushing has a major impact on faecal bacteria in the river," said Jean-Marie Mouchel, professor of hydrology at the Sorbonne University.

Another problem was leakage from sewage pipes from some 23,000 homes in the suburbs, with shower and toilet water being discharged directly into the environment.

But by going door-to-door offering subsidies to get them fixed and threatening penalties if they were not, four out of 10 of these faulty connections have so far been corrected.

"We have gone from 20 million cubic metres to two million cubic metres of discharges into the Seine per year in recent years," said Samuel Colin-Canivez, head of major works for the Paris sewer network.

- The return of fish -

Hydrologist Jean-Marie Mouchel has seen big signs of improvement in the river's health, with better "oxygenation, ammonium and phosphate levels".

While the Seine "has not become a wild river again", it now has "more than 30 species of fish, compared with three in 1970", said the professor.

Bill Francois, who fishes up to five times a week near Pont Marie in the historic heart of Paris, caught a surprisingly large catfish the day he talked to AFP -- the likes of which he never expected to find in the Seine.

The 31-year-old physicist also hooked a small perch, which are becoming more and more numerous. Half a century ago "there were none left", he said.

Other fish that need far higher water quality are also returning, he said, as well as "insects, crustaceans, little shrimps, sponges and even jellyfish".

For microbiologist Francoise Lucas, who has been following efforts to clean the Seine for years, the weather will ultimately decide the fate of the Olympic events on the river

"Everything that could be done (technically) has been done," Lucas told AFP.

Massive treatment plants

Upstream from the capital, one of the newly modernised sewage plants is using an innovative treatment method based on performic acid -- an "organic disinfectant" -- according to Siaap, the body that deals with the Paris region's waste water and sewage.

It insists the acid is safe and "rapidly disintegrates even before coming into contact with the natural environment."

Not far away, a new stormwater control station is also coming online. Dug deep underground at Champigny-sur-Marne to the southeast of Paris, it is designed to stop the river being polluted by heavy downpours.

As well as catching the stormwater, it filters and cleans it to remove floating debris and counters bacteria with ultraviolet lamps before the water is released into the Marne.

And as a final safety net to avoid a recurrence of the nightmare Olympic test events last summer, a huge new stormwater cistern is opening at Austerlitz on the eastern edge of central Paris. Fifty metres (164 feet) wide and 30m deep, it can hold the equivalent of 20 Olympic swimming pools worth of water.

A veritable underground cathedral, it is there to stop stormwater flooding the sewers and overflowing into the Seine.

Even so, "statistically there are a few rainstorms a year for which it won't be totally sufficient", admitted prefect Marc Guillaume, Paris's top state official.

Urban beaches

"We had forgotten about the Seine," said Stephane Raffalli, mayor of the riverside Paris suburb of Ris-Orangis, where one of the nearly 30 new urban beaches will open next year. "There are people who have lived here for years who have never walked along the banks of the river."

Yet suburbanites were still swimming in the Seine until the 1960s and right up to the 1970s in the Marne, where riverside lidos called "Little Trouville" or "Deauville in Paris" did their best to summon up the holiday atmosphere of English Channel beach resorts.

In Champigny-sur-Marne, the old "beach" had "a kind of small pool where children were able to touch the bottom," recalled 74-year-old Michel Riousset. "Everyone had their own cabin."

Ris-Orangis hopes to have its old river pool complete with cabins, first built around 1930, back in service next year.

"We have conducted pollution studies over a long period, and it is safe" to swim in the river, the mayor insisted.

With climate change, and the prospect of summer temperatures hitting 50 degrees Centigrade (122 Fahrenheit) in Paris, the need for somewhere to cool off in summer has never been greater.

But some have already taken the plunge. On a warm evening last July about 20 swimmers were enjoying the Seine off the Ile Saint Denis, where the Olympic Village has been built.

Josue Remoue swims in the river three times a month from May to October.

"I've never been sick," said the 52-year-old civil servant. "The water is dodgier at the edge, generally I don't linger there." And he never "goes underwater".

Remoue takes to the water on Sundays or in the evening to avoid barge traffic.

On the night AFP joined his group, the water was a bit earthy but not murky. With the temperature at 25C, the scene along the riverbank was almost bucolic despite the nearby tower blocks.

"It's completely different from swimming in a pool," said Celine Debunne, 47, as she emerged from "a super two-kilometre swim.... I love swimming like this."

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Beaches, lakes and sea pools: Europe’s best train journeys for a summer break

Chlorinated pools can have an annual footprint of 1,400kg CO2, so cool off in these dreamy natural swimming spots instead.

Summers of languid afternoons splashing in and out of the water are just around the corner.

And one of the best things about holidaying in Europe is you don’t need to fly for scenic beaches and refreshing dips.

Flight-free experts at Byway have curated a series of journeys by train for travellers who want to dive into a more sustainable adventure.

Chlorinated pools can have an annual footprint of 1,400kg CO2, so all these trips take you to dreamy natural swimming spots.

Surf all summer long in San Sebastián

San Sebastián is often dubbed Spain 's foodie capital, but it is also one of the country's best-loved surf towns.

La Zurriola Beach hosts top surf events throughout the year. With the reliable Atlantic swell and handful of surf schools, it is a perfect spot even for total beginners.

To get to San Sebastián, take the Eurostar from London St Pancras to Paris and then the TGV to Bordeaux. Here, you can stop for the night before continuing on to Hendaye and finally San Sebastián.

Swim in the bracing British sea in Cromer

The North Norfolk coast is the terminus of the Bittern railway through the watery landscape of the Broads.

Life-guarded beaches at Sheringham and Cromer are ideal for sea swims, with a slew of coffee spots to boost circulation post-dip.

• Europe’s best beaches: These coastal hotspots came out on top for sun, safety, and swimming
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By train from London, you’ll need to change in Norwich before arriving at the coast in Cromer.

Dip your toes in Slovenia’s Lake Bled

Grajsko Kopalisce is a designated public bathing spot on Lake Bled which will be reopening in time for summer. It has four natural pools and thickets of chestnut trees that provide ample shade for lakeside picnics.

With Byway, you can make the trip to Slovenia into a seven night adventure that includes a ride on the EuroNight sleeper from Stuttgart to Bled.

Enjoy urban floating in Bern, Switzerland

There's an art to joining Bern 's thriving urban swim scene. Do as the Bernese do and think less 'swim' and more 'float'.

Follow the regulars to Eichholz Park and let the River Aare carry you to the Marzili open-air pool - they say there's no better way to see the city.

En route from London, you can stop in Basel to peruse art galleries and wander the Rhine river before continuing by train to Bern. 

Jump into Penzance's Jubilee Pool

Set to reopen early on 4 May 2024, Penzance 's Art Deco lido is the largest seawater pool in the UK.

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It was designed in the early 1930s and is now run by a community enterprise that has seen the construction of a new geothermal pool and updated changing facilities.

Take the Night Riviera sleeper train from London, waking up in Penzance in time for breakfast.

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