Lac de L'Avellan

Lac de l'Avellan is an artificial lake tucked into the Esterel massif, within the boundaries of Fréjus in the Var department of Provence. Ringed by a Mediterranean forest of cork oaks, umbrella pines and holm oaks, it draws both locals and visitors looking for a quiet, shaded escape away from the coastal crowds.

How did the lake come to be?

The lake was formed when an earth dam was raised across the valley in 1974. The structure runs 204 metres long and stands 15 metres high, and the reservoir it created spans roughly 5.5 hectares. The dam serves two purposes at once: supplying water to the surrounding area and supporting recreational use of the reservoir. Interestingly, the same general area, on the Reyran river, holds the ruins of the far older and infamous Malpasset dam, so many visitors combine a walk around Avellan with a stop at those nearby remains.

Is fishing allowed on the lake?

Yes — Lac de l'Avellan is designated as a family fishing site. Its waters hold bream, roach, rudd, chub, tench and carp, while perch and pikeperch are the species most prized by anglers, often found lurking in the lake's shaded stretches. Shaded picnic tables and benches line the shore, making it easy to settle in for a full day outdoors. Swimming and boating are both prohibited on the reservoir, which keeps its role centred on water supply and quiet recreation rather than bathing.

What hiking trails circle the lake?

Two loop trails, each just over 2 kilometres, trace the shoreline and are open to walkers and mountain bikers alike. The route runs through classic Mediterranean woodland — a mix of cork oaks, umbrella pines, holm oaks and white oaks — offering welcome shade even during the height of the Provençal summer. The walk around the lake is gentle and requires no particular fitness, making it a solid pick for families with children.

How do you get to Lac de l'Avellan?

Access is via the road known as the Avellan trail, which branches off from the Col du Testanier. The access road is open daily from 6am to 9pm, except during periods of heightened fire risk, when local authorities may temporarily restrict entry to the Esterel massif. It's worth checking the current access status before heading out during the summer months.

Frequently asked questions

Is there an entry fee? No, access to the lake and its surrounding trails is free; only the access road's opening hours apply.

Can you swim in the lake? No, swimming and boating are prohibited across the entire reservoir.

Is it suitable for families with children? Yes, the short, gentle loop trails and shaded picnic spots make it an easy family outing.

Are there other attractions nearby? Yes, not far away on the Reyran river stand the ruins of the former Malpasset dam, often visited together with Lac de l'Avellan on the same outing.