A spectacular region of white-water rivers and great natural lakes overlooked by snow-capped peaks, as well as alpine meadows studded with flowers.
Central Alps Swim Highlights
Roc de Chère, Annecy
This rocky outcrop and bay, at the end of woodland walk, is great for jumps and secluded swimming.
Angon Plage, Annecy
With pontoons, a café and lifeguards, this is a great place to take the children.
Ravin du Couleau
Lovely crystal-clear pools up an impressive mountain ravine.
La Roche-de-Rame
Luminous lake surrounded by mountains with a tree that is handy for jumps, plus a café and campsite.
Chapelle de Rame
Another wonderful lake, but set in a secluded location beside the river Durance.
Lac de Serre-Ponçon
A huge lake with miles of undeveloped lakeshore, particularly in the south-west tail. An easy place to camp wild.
Lac du Sautet
Superb views over the Montagne de Féraud and simple lakeside camping.
Chute de la Druise
The most impressive of the waterfalls in the Parc du Vercors – a slender chute falls down a great ravine into a deep, bubbling, mosslined plunge pool.
Ste-Croix
Probably the best swimming on the river Drôme, with pretty beach and some deeper pools.
