Something to Spot: Barrage de Serre-Ponçon

The Lac de Serre-Ponçon, unlike the majority of the area, is not entirely made by glacier or watercourses. No - this lake is a reservoir, serving much of the Provence area with water as well as supplying hydroelectricity. When water was needed desperately in Provence, some bright spark decided to dam the Durance river just beyond its confluence with the river Ubaye, thus creating the beautiful reservoir we still have today.

If you are ever travelling on the western side of the lake, be sure to stop off and see the structure which made it so: the Barrage (dam) de Serre-Ponçon. There is a viewpoint for you to see the dam itself, along with information about the dam's formation and even a museum and a couple of gift shops.

The dam itself is not particularly spectacular: although quite large, most of it is underwater and the more impressive southern side is not really visible. However, it is worth a stop off just to appreciate the amount of work and effort that went into building one of the most beautiful lakes in Europe. It is therefore a reminder that helping people does not necessarily mean damaging the landscape. There is also a great view of the lake from the viewpoint.

Definitely give this a look if you are in the area.