- Where is swimming allowed ?
- Sauteyras beach
- Supervised swimming only in summer
- Areas where swimming is prohibited
- Water quality
- Equipment available
- Other activities around the lake
- Tips for safe swimming
- Access and parking
- Frequently asked questions
Located about twenty kilometers southwest of Clermont-Ferrand, the lac d’Aydat is the largest natural lake in Auvergne. Very popular during the summer period, every year it attracts many visitors who come to enjoy its exceptional volcanic environment, its nautical activities and its equipped beach.
If swimming is allowed on the lake, it is strictly supervised in order to ensure the safety of users and to preserve a sensitive natural space. Here is all the essential information to peacefully enjoy a day at Lake Aydat.
Where is swimming allowed ?
Contrary to popular belief, it is not possible to swim freely all around Lake Aydat. Swimming is authorized only on the equipped beach of Sauteyr, in a specially defined area.
This area benefits from a specific layout including a marked swimming area, equipment for the public and surveillance during the summer season.
Outside of this official range, swimming is prohibited on the entire rest of the lake in accordance with local regulations.
Sauteyras beach
Sauteyras beach is the only authorized swimming site on Lake Aydat. It is particularly suitable for families thanks to its gentle slope and its numerous amenities..
Aydat beach webcam
You can thus know (among other things) THE weather conditions and the crowds on the beach.
Its main assets
- sand and grass beach ;
- marked swimming area ;
- first aid station in season ;
- showers ;
- public toilets ;
- children's play area ;
- volleyball court ;
- picnic tables ;
- parking lots nearby ;
- restaurants et snacks accessible on foot.
Access to the beach is free.
Supervised swimming only in summer (Schedules)
Surveillance is only provided during the summer season, in July and August, during defined times : From 1:30 pm to 6:30 pm.
Outside of these periods or after the first aid station has closed, swimming is no longer supervised. The authorities point out that it then becomes prohibited by order, although some visitors may be tempted to get into the water.
It is therefore recommended to respect the opening periods in order to benefit from the presence of lifeguards and permanent supervision..
Areas where swimming is prohibited
All other banks of the lake are affected by a swimming ban.
Why this ban ?
Several reasons justify this regulation :
- lack of surveillance ;
- variable depths ;
- presence of watercraft ;
- risks linked to lake bottoms ;
- protection of certain sensitive natural areas ;
- more difficult emergency response.
Areas frequented by sailboats, paddles, windsurfing or other water activities are not compatible with free swimming.
Complying with these regulations also helps preserve the biodiversity present on the shores of the lake..
Regularly monitored water
Water quality is subject to regular health checks throughout the bathing season..
Samples are taken to verify that the microbiological parameters comply with European standards.. The results are displayed on the beach and published by state services.
The site regularly obtains a ranking of good health quality, even if temporary closures may exceptionally occur in the event of accidental pollution or health risk.
The water quality of Lake Aydat is subject to regular health monitoring throughout the bathing season.. Samples are taken to control the microbiological parameters of the water, in accordance with the regulations applicable to bathing water. The results are displayed on the site and help inform visitors about swimming conditions..
Water quality is generally satisfactory, but it can change depending on weather conditions. After heavy rain, For example, runoff can temporarily degrade water quality and lead authorities to take preventative measures.
Reinforced monitoring of cyanobacteria
Like many natural bodies of water, Lake Aydat is also monitored to detect the presence of cyanobacteria, sometimes called “blue-green algae”. These microorganisms grow naturally in fresh water, mainly when several factors come together : high temperatures, strong sunshine and lightly mixed water.
Some species of cyanobacteria can produce toxins that may pose a risk to human and animal health. Exposure may cause skin irritation, eyes or mucous membranes, as well as digestive disorders in the event of ingestion of contaminated water. Dogs are particularly sensitive, especially if they drink lake water or lick their coat after swimming.
During the summer period, specific analyzes are carried out to monitor the appearance of possible proliferations of cyanobacteria. Competent authorities adapt controls according to changing circumstances and environmental conditions.
Occasional swimming bans
When analyzes reveal a concentration of cyanobacteria or toxins exceeding health thresholds, or when a risk is identified for users, the mayor can issue an order temporarily prohibiting swimming. This preventive measure aims to protect the health of the public until a return to compliant water quality.
These bans are generally lifted as soon as analyzes confirm that health conditions have become satisfactory again.. They can last from a few days to several weeks depending on the evolution of the phenomenon..
Before going to the lake, it is recommended to consult the information distributed by the municipality or displayed on the beach. In the event of a temporary ban, the signs installed on the site specify the restrictions in force and the instructions to be respected.
In the event of exceptional closure
When analyzes reveal a health risk or when an exceptional event occurs, swimming may be temporarily prohibited until the water quality returns to normal.
Equipment available
Sauteyras beach has many facilities to make a family day easier :
- parking ;
- first aid station ;
- showers ;
- bathroom ;
- picnic area ;
- playgrounds ;
- restaurants ;
- snacks ;
- relatively suitable access for people with reduced mobility ;
- tourist information point nearby.
The beach is also non-smoking in accordance with municipal regulations.
Pets are prohibited on the beach and in the swimming area in order to preserve the sanitary quality of the site.
Other activities around the lake
Even if swimming remains the flagship activity of summer, Lake Aydat offers many possibilities :
- paddle ;
- canoe ;
- catamaran ;
- veil ;
- sailboard ;
- walk around the lake ;
- hiking ;
- nature observation ;
- fishing (with specific regulations).
Lovers of volcanic landscapes will also appreciate the immediate proximity of the Puys chain., listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Tips for enjoying your swim
- Prioritize monitoring times.
- Respect marked areas.
- Constantly supervise young children.
- Never dive into an unknown area.
- Hydrate regularly.
- Take sun protection.
- Respect natural spaces and bring back your waste.
- Check any restrictions before your trip.
Access and parking
Sauteyras beach is easily accessible by car from Clermont-Ferrand in around thirty minutes. Several car parks are located in the immediate vicinity of the beach..
During the summer, attendance is important, especially on weekends. It is advisable to arrive in the morning to find a parking space more easily..
Seasonal transport also allows you to reach the lake during the summer..
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim anywhere in the lake? ?
Non. Swimming is only permitted on the Sauteyras beach..
Is swimming free? ?
Oui, access to the beach is open and free.
Is swimming supervised? ?
Oui, but only during the summer season and according to defined times.
Can you come with your dog? ?
Animals are prohibited on the beach and in the swimming area.
Are we allowed to smoke on the beach? ?
The beach is non-smoking, smoking or vaping is completely prohibited.
How to know the quality of water ?
The results of health analyzes are displayed on the bathing site and published by the health authorities throughout the season.
Is there a naturist beach in Aydat? ? Nudist beach ?
Naturism or nudism has been prohibited at Lake Aydat by municipal decree since 8 June 1998.
Lake Aydat is one of the most beautiful swimming sites in Puy-de-Dôme. To fully enjoy this exceptional natural setting, it is essential to respect the regulations in force. Swimming is exclusively authorized on the Sauteyras beach., where safety conditions, the equipment and surveillance make it possible to welcome visitors in the best conditions.
By choosing this official beach and respecting the instructions displayed on site, everyone contributes to preserving the safety of users as well as the environmental quality of this emblematic site of the Auvergne volcanoes.
