Its imposing size and the splendid scenery in which it is located have undoubtedly revamped this dam into a unique tourist attraction. Located at the junction of Durance and Ubaye, this colossal work demonstrates the genius and virtuosity of Man that is transmitted today in this industrial heritage. This tremendous construction is one of the largest earthen dams in France and attracts many visitors every year, eager to discover this artificial lake in the heart of the Alps and Provence.
The Serre-Ponçon Dam
The Gazebo at the Serre-Ponçon Dam
The gazebo at the Serre-Ponçon Dam is the absolute must-see observation point when visiting the Durance Valley. Directly from the platform, you can fully take in the magnificence of the dam. At 125 metres high, the size of the dam is quite impressive. Its earthen construction explains its striking dimensions and structure: it is 125 metres high and 600 metres wide, that is to say two Eiffel towers put end to end. The earthen dam, whose material was directly taken from the Espinasse plain, brings the maximum water retention level to an altitude of 780 metres, which corresponds to a depth of 90 metres and several million cubic metres retained.
The platform overlooks the Durance Valley and offers an exceptional panoramic view of the dam and the Serre-Ponçon lake. Thanks to the information panels located on both sides of the gazebo, visitors will be able to better grasp the essential role of the dam in the production of electricity and in the supply of drinking water to the inhabitants of the region. Take advantage of a family visit in the heart of Provence to discover the backstage of this titanic project which required no less than 5 years of construction, the commitment of nearly 3000 workers and the relocation of the villages of Ubaye and Savines.
EDF water and energy house
Located at the bottom of the embankment of one of the largest dams in Europe, discover the EDF House of Water and Energy (also known in French as ‘Maison de l’eau et des énergies EDF’). It discloses groundbreaking steps of the construction of the dam and the way this electrical installation has reinvented the landscape of the Durance Valley. Indeed, once the dam was put in the water, populations were relocated, including the village of Savines-le-Lac, now rebuilt on both shores of the lake of Serre-Ponçon and the village of Ubaye, which is now a mere memory of the past.
The EDF House of Water and Energies welcomes you for a unique and entertaining experience. Children and parents will be able to discover the mechanics and functioning of a power plant, the production of electricity and the energy-related professions. During a recreational visit, come and discover the world of hydroelectricity, as well as renewable energies, through numerous workshops and modules (archive images, films, visit to the power station, etc.). The construction and the very singular history of this dam will not have any secret for you.
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The Serre-Ponçon lake
This magnificent lake that stretches as far as the eye can see, does not fail to win the hearts of its many visitors year after year. Located in an exceptional natural setting, between the sea and the mountains in the heart of the Southern Alps, the Serre-Ponçon Lake is the meeting place for nature and water sports enthusiasts alike. Indeed, at the lake of Serre Ponton, there is no lack of activities. On the water you can practise kayaking, sailing or even rafting. Enough to fill your days and spend unforgettable moments by the water.
The lake of Serre-Ponçon can also be discovered on foot. Discover the village of Rousset, located on the right bank of the Durance, where the Museoscope of the lake is situated. The Museoscope relates the testimonies and stories of the inhabitants of the villages engulfed by the millions of cubic metres of water retained by the dam. Discover a cultural space, where the history of the lake is recounted through images and short films.
