10 Cool Swimming Spots to Beat the Heat

TOP 10 beaches and swimming areas in Burgundy

Looking to cool off and take a dip in Burgundy ? Follow the guide — here’s our pick of the most inviting beaches and swimming spots in Burgundy to escape the summer heat.
Here, a stay by the water doesn’t mean crowded beaches, jellyfish, or endless sunburns. Just peace, nature, and a refreshing break. Enjoy your swim!

Alain Doire - BFC Tourisme
1 The Most Famous Swimming Spot

Lac des Settons

A must-see among the great lakes of the Morvan, in Burgundy. Shade, calm, and fresh water — what more could you ask for? Maybe a bit of action? You’re in luck! Besides swimming, you can enjoy sailing, kayaking, windsurfing, and more.
And if you can’t fit it all into one day, just come back tomorrow!

Go swimming at the Lac des Settons

2 Three Lakes to Make the Most of Summer

Base Nautique – Lacs de Laives

Perfectly located between Tournus and Chalon-sur-Saône, this Natura 2000 ecological site in Burgundy, features three lakes: one with lifeguarded swimming in summer, and two reserved for fishing enthusiasts.
You can also try stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, or pedal boats. Why not extend your stay at the nearby 3-star campsite?

Go swimming at the Lacs de Laives

M.Casado /BFCT
3 Just Steps from Saint-Jean-de-Losne

Base Nautique du Lac de Chour

This 38-hectare lake in Burgundy in France welcomes you every summer with its sandy beach, shady picnic areas, and water activities galore.
There’s also a lakeside restaurant for a tasty break. The perfect spot to relax with family — and even take part in fishing contests!

Go swimming at the Lac de Chour

J.Bardet
4 Surrounded by Nature

Lac de Grosbois

Created in 1830 to feed the Canal of Burgundy, this 15-hectare reservoir surrounded by greenery is an ideal summer getaway with family or friends.
Activities, discovery trails, and a wildlife observatory will delight nature lovers. On-site you’ll also find a café and picnic tables for a relaxing day in Burgundy.

Go swimming at Grosbois

Lyonnaise des Eaux / studio Piffaut
5 A Natural Swimming Pool

Beaune Côté Plage

Tired of pools that smell like chlorine and bleach? We get it! In Beaune, they’ve reinvented the swimming pool with 0% chemicals.
How does it work? Thanks to the natural filtration of plants.
Mother Nature herself keeps the water clean and clear — no irritation, no dryness, just pure pleasure. And the view over the Beaune hillsides? Simply stunning.

Go swimming at Beaune Côté Plage

Arséne JURMAN - OT Puisaye-Forterre / BFC Tourisme
6 A Wide Sandy Beach for Everyone

Lac du Bourdon

Head to Puisaye in Burgundy, for a dip in the Lac du Bourdon. With its long sandy beach, it’s a favorite among swimmers.
In summer, the swimming area is supervised, and the shade of the trees along the lake is much appreciated on hot days.

Go swimming at the Lac du Bourdon

Otblm
7 A Wild Nature Swim

Base de loisirs de l’Étang de la Chênaie

For you, water means peace and well-being? Then the Étang de la Chênaie in Burgundy in France, is your place. A landscaped beach, greenery as far as the eye can see...
It’s a refreshing change from endless stretches of sand or pebbles. And if you feel like a stroll, put on your sneakers and discover the charming village of Montapas nearby!

Go swimming at the Etang de la Chênaie

Otblm
3 Swimming in the great outdoors

The Etang de la Chênaie leisure complex

Is swimming for you all about serenity and wellness? We've got the ideal place for you, at the Etang de la Chênaie. A beach with facilities, greenery all around you... It's a welcome change from the stony beaches. And if you've had enough of the beach, put your trainers on and go and explore the village of Montapas!

Go swimming at this leisure complex

Alain Doire - BFC Tourisme
8 The largest swimming lake in Burgundy

Swimming in the Lac de Pannecière

How about a swim that feels like going back to nature, in total tranquility? Head to Lac de Pannecière, the largest lake in Burgundy.
Once there, it’s easy to find your own quiet spot of greenery for a zen day by the water — perfect to refresh both body and mind.

Go swimming in this lake

Dominique Nygren
9 Eco-Friendly Swimming

Biotope pool - La Chapelle-Saint-Sauveur

Prefer quality over quantity? Visit the Biotope pool of La Chapelle-Saint-Sauveur in Burgundy. Only 1,500 m² to swim, but in pristine water and an unspoiled environment.
Everything here is designed to blend into nature, without sacrificing comfort — changing rooms, restrooms, and a snack bar are all available. Just settle in and enjoy!

Go swimming in this natural pool

Côte-d'Or Tourisme © R. KREBEL
10 Just Minutes from Downtown Dijon

Lac Kir

Live like a true local and visit Lac Kir, named after the famous Dijon aperitif! You can reach it easily from the city center via the Jardin de l’Arquebuse path.
In summer, relax on the warm sand of “Dijon Plage” with its blue-and-white beach huts, or join in the sports and music events around the lake. It’s a lovely place to enjoy all year round, right here in Burgundy.

Go swimming at the Lac Kir

Alain Doire - BFC Tourisme
All Beaches and Swimming Areas in Burgundy

If you’re still craving more fresh water and sunshine, explore the full list of lakes, swimming areas, and pools scattered across Burgundy.

See the list

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