i 🌊 Lakes & swimming
Lac de Madine
A vast leisure lake at the foot of the Côtes de Meuse: beaches, sailing, cycling and birdwatching.
Overview
At the foot of the Côtes de Meuse, in the heart of the Lorraine Regional Nature Park, Lac de Madine spreads nearly 1,000 hectares of shallow water between Nonsard-Lamarche and Heudicourt-sous-les-Côtes. All around, the leisure centre brings together beaches, a marina, sailing, windsurfing, paddleboarding, canoeing and pedalos, as well as tree-top adventure courses, an inflatable aquapark, crazy golf, a golf course and a riding centre. Enough to fill a day or a whole holiday, staying in a gîte, a horse-drawn caravan or at the campsite.
For nature lovers, the site is a Natura 2000 area and a national hunting and wildlife reserve. A birdwatching hide and two themed trails let you observe migratory birds. According to the site’s managers, the full circuit of the lake, on foot or by bike, is more than 18 km: allow around two hours in the saddle and nearly six hours on foot. You can make a detour to the Butte de Montsec and its American memorial, which overlooks the lake. In summer, two free lifeguarded swimming areas await: the lively Nonsard beach, close to the aquapark, and the quieter Heudicourt area, below the riding centre. Plastic water shoes are recommended for getting into the water.
Where to do it
In Nonsard-Lamarche (Meuse (55)), in Lorraine. Best season: ☀️ Summer.
Good to know
A large leisure lake at the foot of the Côtes de Meuse, which is also a major bird reserve.
Tips
Cycle round the lake (more than 18 km) or walk part of it, and stop at the bird observatory.
Location
Frequently asked questions
When are there lifeguards at Lac de Madine?
In 2026, lifeguards are on duty at weekends in June from the 13th (12:00–20:00), every day in July and August (12:00–19:00 on weekdays, 12:00–20:00 at weekends and on public holidays), then at weekends from 1 to 20 September. Outside these times, you swim at your own risk.
Are dogs allowed at Lac de Madine?
Dogs are banned from both beaches, at Nonsard and Heudicourt alike. If you’re bringing your dog, plan a walk on the trails instead, keeping it on a lead, and respect the wildlife of the reserve.
Is the walk or bike ride around Lac de Madine suitable for children?
The circuit is more than 18 km long, and nearly 3 km of it follows a departmental road, so the site’s managers advise against it for families with children. It cannot be done on a rosalie (four-wheeled pedal cart). E-bikes, hybrid bikes and children’s trikes can be hired on the Heudicourt side, and mountain bikes on the Nonsard side.
Is Lac de Madine accessible for people with reduced mobility?
Yes, for the most part. Accessible parking spaces have been provided in three car parks, and electric mobility scooters are available to hire. In July and August, beach wheelchairs for getting into the water (Tiralo, Hippocampe) are lent out at the beach lifeguard stations.
Information checked in October 2026. Opening hours, prices and conditions may change: check the official website before you travel.
Nearby (within 20 km)
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