Known for its magnificent scenery, the largest of the Morvan lakes stretches as far as the eye can see. Created to regulate the course of the Seine and prevent flooding in Paris, the Lac de Pannecière is held back by an impressive 49 m-high dam! Cross it to admire the lake and the surrounding landscape, or take your binoculars to observe the flora and fauna. With a surface area of 520 ha, equivalent to more than 728 football stadiums, it's sure to leave you breathless!
Due to a bloom observed on the site, significant contamination by cyanobacteria is suspected at the Soulins (Corancy) bathing area. Swimming and water sports activities are therefore temporarily prohibited. These micro-organisms may cause health problems (irritation, sore throat, nausea, etc.) - please see the official notice below for full recommendations.
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From 12 May 2025 until 13 October 2025, the road crossing the Pannecière dam will be closed to all traffic, including pedestrians and cyclists. This closure is necessary to allow the complete renewal of the roadway over the dam.
A diversion route will be set up throughout the works.
The route des crêtes is a 48km circuit that can be done by car or by bike, with or without electric assistance. It will take you through the villages of Montigny-en-Morvan, Chaumard and Ouroux-en-Morvan, as well as skirting the lake in several places.
Another option is to follow the Departmental routes 944, 303 and 161 around the lake, covering 22 km and 240 m of ascent. Two-thirds of the route runs alongside the lake, with the final third overlooking it from magnificent vantage points.
For hikers, there are several loops offering superb views of the lake: "Les rives de Pannecière", an 8km walk; "Les rives du petit lac", a 14km circuit; and "Le Maquis de Chaumard", a 10km walk.
Hiking maps are available in our Tourist Offices (€1).
Fancy a trip around the Lac de Pannecière? You can do it on the water!
Choose your craft: kayak, stand-up paddle or pedalo and explore the lake as much as you like!
The lake's fish-filled waters also make it the Morvan's favourite fishing lake.
If you want to sunbathe or take a dip, Bonin beach, the Blaisy peninsula and Chaumard beach at the end of the champs des îles are just waiting for you! Children can have fun in the play areas near the beaches.
In winter and spring, the water is stored in the reservoir lake to build up a reserve for low-water periods, following a filling curve. During periods of high water, additional water is drawn from the reservoir to limit the risk of flooding downstream.
In summer and autumn, the water previously stored in the lake-reservoir is returned to the Yonne to prevent the river flowing too slowly, and to allow water to be drawn for drinking water production and to improve the quality of aquatic environments.
