Top 10 places to swim and have fun in the Dordogne this summer

• Paddleboarding on the Saint-Estèphe pond

Located in the heart of the Périgord Vert region, legend has it that the large Saint-Estèphe pond was dug nine centuries ago by monks from Badeix Abbey to raise fish. Today, surrounded by nature, it's ideal for sporting activities. Whether you're looking for paddleboarding, baby waterskiing, archery, or mountain biking, this summer will be an active one. Free, supervised swimming is available every day from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

• White sand on Nantheuil beach

With its white sand and clear water, the Nantheuil lake, set in a lush green setting, offers an ideal setting for a family afternoon. Shaded areas can be enjoyed on the grass. Ping-pong tables, a water slide, children's playground equipment, and volleyball courts are all free. Free, supervised swimming is available from 1:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Open every day except Tuesday.

• Stop on the banks of the Dronne in Lisle

On the road to Grand-Brassac, stop at the bridge. This small sandy beach feels like the sea, minus the turbulence. There's everything for children: tennis courts, a slide, and a swing, but also for parents who can enjoy the delicious food at the nearby restaurant. Supervised swimming is available every day from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m.

• Biodiversity in La Jemaye

In the heart of the Double forest, the large pond of La Jemaye is a preserved natural site that celebrates biodiversity. You can go on an educational walk to discover the flora and fauna. The site is home to certain endangered species such as the European pond turtle. Free and supervised swimming is available every day from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

• Plenty of leisure activities at the Rouffiac base

The Rouffiac leisure center, in the commune of Angoisse, on the borders of Haute-Vienne, Périgord and Corrèze, is astonishing in its proportions: a 42-hectare body of water surrounded by more than 50 hectares of natural area. You can enjoy a wide range of activities: treetop adventure courses, water ski lifts, sailing or zip lines... Open every day from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 2 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., Sundays and public holidays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

• Blue flag at Lake Tamniès

Ideally located between Montignac, Sarlat and Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil, the Tamniès pond, created for agricultural irrigation needs in the 1970s, is the only one in the department to be awarded the Blue Flag label, a symbol of exemplary environmental quality. Fishing, volleyball and pedal boats complete this offer.

• The new face of Lake Gurson

Following extensive work carried out by the Department, Lake Gurson, near Villefranche-de-Lonchat, is enjoying its second season. With its open and serene panorama, rural horizons, and fishing grounds, the lake also hosts numerous sporting activities. Open daily from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

• From Lake Pombonne to the greenway

Welcome to "Bergerac Beach"! A little secret paradise north of the city, the artificial lake of Pombonne offers a beautiful, sunny beach. Less family-friendly than the other bodies of water, Pombonne also has a friendly, open-air café. You can also take your bike there and join the greenway! Open every day, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

• Pebble beach at Coux-et-Bigaroque

Nestled in the heart of the Périgord Noir, the pebble beach of Coux-et-Bigaroque is located on the right bank of the Dordogne River. In addition to children's playgrounds, you can enjoy diving from the campsite's low wall on the opposite bank. Lifeguards are available until August 15.

• The cliff facing Vitrac beach