Lac de Saint-Andéol (lac du mont Hélanus)

Marchastel

On the Aubrac plateau, at more than 1,200 metres, a large lake occupies an old crater. In the 6th century, the bishop Gregory of Tours describes in his book on the glory of the confessors a lake of the Gévaudan, on a ‘mount’ called Helanus. Country people came there to make offerings, feasted for three days and were then caught by violent storms. According to local tradition, Saint Andéol came to put an end to these practices and had a chapel dedicated to Saint Hilary built. The lake is traditionally identified with that of Saint-Andéol, but this is not certain: the word ‘mons’ usually designates a summit, and several neighbouring heights have been proposed. The gatherings nonetheless continued until the 19th century, with processions in which clothes and food were thrown into the water. A large granite cross now watches over the site, near traces presented as those of a small ancient temple. What lies at the bottom of the lake remains unknown: ancient offerings are mentioned, but no published excavation is cited.

Lozère Tourisme — Lac de Saint-Andéol ↗

Getting there: Lac de l'Aubrac, at Marchastel (Lozère), close to the Way of Saint James; free access at any hour, by a path with a granite cross that overlooks the site. The lake is on private property and swimming is forbidden. The ruins of the chapel of Saint-Hilaire are about 100 m north of the Saint-Andéol buron. Altitude 1,200 m: snow and fog possible. Coordinates: Lozère Tourisme record.

Opening times and access details are given as a guide only: check before you set out.

Ambient sound