Lac de Vassivière

Infobox lake
lake_name = Lac de Vassivière
image_lake = Vassiviere Barrage01.jpg
caption_lake = With one of the dams in the background
image_bathymetry =
caption_bathymetry =
location = Limousin
coords = Coord|45|47|50|N|1|52|45|E|region:FR_type:waterbody|display=inline,title
type = reservoir
inflow = Maulde River
outflow = Maulde River
catchment =
basin_countries = France
length =
width =
area = 9.76 km²
depth =
max-depth = 32 m
volume = convert|106000000|m3|acre.ft|abbr=on|lk=on
residence_time =
shore =
elevation = 650 m
islands = Isle of Vassivière
cities =
frozen =

The "Lac de Vassivière" or Vassivière Lake (Vacivièra in Occitan) is one of France's largest lakes, in fact a large reservoir, about 1000 hectares in area, situated in the départements of Creuse and Haute-Vienne, in the Limousin region of France. It provides water supplies, hydroelectricity, and leisure facilities.

Construction

The lake was constructed after World War II and opened at Christmas 1950.

It is the product of two barrages in the valley of the Maulde River, an important tributary of the Vienne River.

Amenities

The ""Lac de Vassivière"" is entirely inside the Millevaches Regional Natural Park, a large nature reserve within Limousin, centred on the Millevaches Massif. Large parts of its shoreline are therefore protected, and form an important haven for wildlife, and wild flowers in particular.

However, there has been a good deal of touristic development, mostly at well-separated, small sites. These provide camping and picnic facilities, artificial beaches, and small ports. There are demarcated zones for motor boating and water skiing, but most of the surface is dominated by small sailing boats.

Isle of Vassivière

The Isle of Vassivière is a 75 hectare island at the centre of the lake. It is dominated by a chateau and features a number of exhibition and performance spaces, a landscape sculpture park and small menagerie. It is also the site of the lake's main lighthouse, designed by Aldo Rossi.

The island is connected to the shore by a causeway. Only authorised vehicles are allowed, so it is normally accessed on foot or by road train.

Transport

The Lake is entirely encircled by roads and footpaths. The nearest railway station is Eymoutiers/Lac de Vassivière. As well as guided tours by boat, there is a free water taxi on the lake.

Gallery

External links

* [http://www.vassiviere.com/ Official Web Site]