Beaches and Lakes

Within a 15-minute drive, you can reach one of the numerous beach lakes, known as "Étang or Plan d'eau", which often feature designated beach areas supervised by lifeguards, ensuring a safe and secure swimming experience for everyone. Besides swimming, you might try paddle boarding, pedalo rides, or simply enjoy a relaxing day on the beach.

Grand-Etang de Saint Estèphe 

A picturesque setting for a beach day, where children can have fun in the playground, build sandcastles, or swim safely in the waters. Canoes and paddleboards are available free of charge. An accessible path meanders around the lake, beckoning families to a memorable stroll beneath the oaks, amidst water and forest. Along the way, visitors can engage with the Trim Trail fitness equipment, observe Coypus and frogs soaking up the sun. A midway surprise awaits, leading to the lake's opposite shore, but the details remain a secret.

The lake is equipped to welcome visitors with disabilities, including fishing pontoons designed for those with limited mobility.

Saint-Estèphe

Lac de Saint-Mathieu 

A splendid setting for a day of relaxation by a 14-hectare lake, featuring a supervised beach (seasonal) for safe family swimming and a diving pontoon. The site boasts a variety of additional activities: a children's play area, hiking, fitness trails, petanque, fishing, mini-golf, pedal boats, canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

Consider a leisurely stroll around the lake to take in the views and wildlife. For those seeking longer treks, over 130 km of marked trails are at your disposal, originating from the village or lake, with 6 routes ranging from 13 km to 45 km. Trail maps can be obtained at the tourist information centre by the lake.

For dining, La Grange du Lac or Cabanon du Lac offer delightful meals, quick bites, or ice cream, all with a view of the picturesque lake.

Lac de Saint-Mathieu

Plan d'eau de Saint-Saud-Lacoussière 

The lake has received a Blue Flag designation every year since 2015, for its beach and supervised swimming area. Visitors can engage in beach volleyball, paddle boarding, and children can enjoy the playgrounds. Picnic tables are available for families and friends to gather. Additionally, a restaurant and snack bar provide refreshments.

A 2.5km walking route encircles the lake, offering a chance to observe the local flora and fauna, including herons, green collared ducks, grebes, swans, and more.

Plage de la Guerlie

Situated on the scenic Charente lake just outside Pressignac, a 30-minute drive away. It boasts an excellent beach that families will love, featuring supervised swimming, a picnic area, mini-golf, and a variety of water activities. 

For dining, Le 16 Beach provides a range of delightful meals, quick snacks, and ice cream, complemented by the stunning view of the lake.