i 🌊 Lakes & swimming
Lac d’Orient – Forêt d’Orient
A large lake in the Forêt d’Orient: beach, sailing, swimming and a bird reserve near Troyes.
Overview
Lac d’Orient was created in the 1960s to regulate flooding on the Seine. It covers around 2,300 hectares in the heart of the Forêt d’Orient Regional Nature Park, east of Troyes. Motorboats are not allowed, making it a calm stretch of water for sailing, windsurfing, paddleboarding, canoeing and kayaking or rowing, surrounded by a vast oak forest.
At Mesnil-Saint-Père, the sandy beach comes alive in summer: lifeguarded swimming in July and August, pedalos, beach volleyball and a children’s playground, next to the marina and harbour master’s office. Other beaches line the lake, notably at Géraudot and Lusigny-sur-Barse. The lake also draws large numbers of waterbirds, especially in autumn and winter. Several viewing points have been set up, such as the hide on the D43 between the Maison du Parc and Géraudot. From September to March, the LPO (France’s bird protection league) runs birdwatching outings. The footpaths and cycle tracks along the shores let you round off the day on foot or by bike.
Where to do it
In Mesnil-Saint-Père (Aube (10)), in Champagne-Ardenne. Best season: ☀️ Summer.
Good to know
The largest lake in the Forêt d’Orient, a paradise for sailing boats and migrating birds near Troyes.
Tips
The viewpoint and the birdwatching hides are well worth a detour.
Location
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in Lac d’Orient?
Yes. Mesnil-Saint-Père beach is free to access, with lifeguarded swimming every day in July and August. There are other beaches around the lake, notably at Géraudot and Lusigny-sur-Barse. Outside the season, swimming is unsupervised.
What water sports can you do on Lac d’Orient?
The lake is reserved for non-motorised activities: sailing, windsurfing, kitesurfing, paddleboarding, canoeing and kayaking, and rowing. At Mesnil-Saint-Père, the Maison des Lacs and the harbour master’s office provide information on the marina and water sports. In summer, there are also pedalos on the beach.
When is the best time for birdwatching at Lac d’Orient?
The richest period runs from autumn to the end of winter, when migrating waterbirds stop off on the lakes. The LPO organises outings from September to March; the schedule is available from the tourist office. Several viewing points are signposted around the lake.
Are dogs allowed on the Lac d’Orient beaches?
According to one specialist guide, dogs are banned from the lake’s lifeguarded beaches, including those at Mesnil-Saint-Père, Géraudot and Lusigny-sur-Barse. They can, however, walk on the trails and go into the water away from these beaches. Check the rules on site, as they may change.
Information checked in October 2026. Opening hours, prices and conditions may change: check the official website before you travel.
Nearby (within 20 km)
Weekend idea around Mesnil-Saint-Père
- 1Lac d’Orient – Forêt d’OrientStarting point · Mesnil-Saint-Père
- 2Troyes Cathedral (Saint-Pierre-Saint-Paul)Must-see place · 19 km away
- 3Cité du Vitrail (Stained Glass Centre)Must-see place · 19 km away
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