Étang de la Bonde: the largest body of water in the Luberon

Where it is located

The lake lies between the communes of Cabrières-d’Aigues and La Motte-d’Aigues, in the Vaucluse, in the heart of Pays d’Aigues. Geographically, it occupies the zone between the Luberon massif and the Durance valley, approximately forty kilometres from Aix-en-Provence by road, a distance which makes it both a realistic excursion from Aix and a daily swimming destination for stays in the Luberon.

The lake by numbers

The lake covers approximately 30 hectares, with a depth of 2 to 5 metres. The total surface area is around 0.3km². Its primary supply comes from the Mirail spring, which also irrigates several watercourses in the area, including the Eze.

The lake forms part of the network managed by the Société du Canal de Provence: it serves an irrigation function for agriculture in Pays d’Aigues, with swimming grafted onto this primary use, useful to know when considering why water levels may fluctuate during the season.

Swimming conditions

Swimming is permitted year-round. During peak season, the water typically reaches between 20 and 25°C, placing the lake above the temperatures of most highland water bodies in Provence.

Supervised swimming is organised each summer from 1 July to 31 August, at the beach facing the campsite snack bar. Outside this season, swimming remains possible but at individual responsibility.

The setting and uses

The lake attracts three groups who coexist without conflict: families on the supervised beach, fishermen along the lateral banks, and walkers on the shoreline. A few gentle water activities (paddleboard, pedalo) complement the offering according to season. On-site refreshment is available via the snack bar and several establishments nearby.

Parking near the beach is charged during summer; it is advisable to verify current arrangements directly with the management, as tariffs may vary.

When to visit

July and August draw the most visitors: on weekends, crowds are considerable, particularly around midday. June and early September often offer the best balance, with water already or still above 20°C and a more relaxed atmosphere. Outside peak season, the lake remains a fine setting for walking, though without the swimming aspect.

Planning a stay in the Luberon

AEC Collection selects and represents fine houses and villas in the Luberon, from Pays d’Aigues in the south through to the perched villages of central Luberon. Étang de la Bonde is approximately thirty minutes’ drive from most hamlets and bastides in South Luberon.