Lac Chauvet

Picherande

The Lac Chauvet, in the commune of Picherande, is the ‘twin’ of the Lac Pavin according to the Sancy tourist office: an almost circular maar lake, 600 m in diameter. It is said to lie at 1,166 m above sea level, cover 52 ha and reach 63 m in depth (Wikipedia EN: 1,176 m and 86 m). The crater is said to have formed about 15,000 years ago; glacial moraines partly fill it. A puzzle is noted: the explosion products of the crater have not been found. Unlike the Pavin, the lake has not kept its circular ring. Formerly surrounded by the bois Noir and Montbert, it is now cleared along nearly half its perimeter, and a beech wood with beeches over 200 years old borders it. The lake is private, swimming, boating and fishing are forbidden there, and a path under the beeches allows a walk. No legend, cult or ancient use was found in the sources read.

Getting there: From Picherande, D203 towards Besse-Saint-Anastaise for about 5 km, then right; free access to the site, vehicles forbidden as far as the lake; walking round the lake is not possible; the GR 4 passes less than a kilometre away (Sancy). Mountain hike, check the weather. Coordinates: Nominatim; Wikipedia EN gives 45°27'36"N 2°49'51"E, consistent.

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

Ambient sound