Le Sauze-du-Lac combines distinctive geological formations with Lake Serre-Ponçon and religious heritage. At the Demoiselles coiffées, erosion takes center stage; at the Belvédère, enjoy sweeping views of the lake; and at Plage de Port Saint-Pierre, access the water. Chapels and a church add a long history of construction and remembrance to this landscape and waterside perspective.
Geology and Lake Views
The Demoiselles coiffées lie along the road to Le Sauze-du-Lac. These chalky geological formations were created by the erosion of glacial deposits. Erosion wears away the surrounding material, leaving earth pillars topped with stones. The name “coiffées” refers to these stone caps and draws attention to the formations’ distinctive silhouettes. Those interested in landscape processes will find a tangible connection here between deposition, erosion and visible form.
The Belvédère du Sauze-du-Lac offers a different perspective on the landscape. It is accessible by car and provides 360-degree panoramic views over Lake Serre-Ponçon. While the Demoiselles reveal a structure shaped by erosion, the Belvédère looks out across the lake. This gives you two different options for planning your trip: a geological formation alongside the road and a viewpoint you can reach by car.
On the Ubaye Arm of the Lake
Plage de Port Saint-Pierre and its water sports center are located on the Ubaye arm of Lake Serre-Ponçon. Tiralo and Hippocampe wheelchairs are available free of charge at the beach. They make it easier for people with reduced mobility to access the water. Availability may vary by season. If you would like to use one of these aids, check that it is available before your visit. This allows you to plan around the specific assistance available at the beach.
Chapels and Historical Traces
The Chapelle Saint-Martin was restored in 2004. It houses the bell from the former Chapelle de Ribière, which was submerged when the Serre-Ponçon dam reservoir was filled. A large key and a holy water stoup, found during excavations at the site, are now displayed in a case. The Chapelle Saint-Martin thus preserves the memory of a place of worship lost to the reservoir, as well as objects unearthed at the site.
The Église Notre Dame de la Colle dates back to the 12th century and was restored in 1886, 1960 and 1988. Compared with the Chapelle Saint-Martin, which was restored in 2004, it brings together medieval origins and several later restoration projects. The architectural history here is marked by a clearly dated origin and a series of restoration years, alongside a chapel also linked to the memory of the submerged Chapelle de Ribière.
Discover more destinations: Lagrand, Molines-En-Queyras, Eygliers, Les Vigneaux, Saint-André-Dʼembrun, Ventavon, Saint-Julien-En-Champsaur, Réotier.
For the regional travel overview: Hautes-Alpes.
