Lac du Moulinet gives Le Buisson a clear focus for nature and water experiences: the lake lies in the Aubrac Regional Natural Park along the Crueize River. Around the lake, you’ll find a circular trail, the distinctive flora of the peat bogs and lakeshore, and summer leisure activities. Other routes also lead through the landscape; the GR® de Pays Tour des Monts d’Aubrac also passes through Le Buisson. Sainte Anne Church and the Digue du Moulinet dam add architecture and the history of water engineering to the things to discover locally.
Circular Trails and Lakeside Scenery
The Tour du Lac du Moulinet circular trail showcases the distinctive flora of the peat bogs and lakeshore. Its route includes dirt paths, boardwalks and a suspension bridge. The first 660 m are accessible to people with reduced mobility; the rest of the route is reserved exclusively for pedestrians. This distinction is important when planning: the accessibility information applies to the start of the circular trail. You can therefore decide in advance which section suits your plans.
Another option is La Devèze Grande. The route starts at Lac du Moulinet and partly passes through beech and fir forests. Traditional houses can be spotted along the way. The GR® de Pays Tour des Monts d’Aubrac also passes through Le Buisson. These different route descriptions offer several ways to shape your stay around walks or hikes.
Water Activities and Facilities
Aquaparc du Moulinet is located at Lac du Moulinet in Le Buisson, Lozère, France. In summer, Aquafun du Moulinet offers an inflatable water park on the lake, as well as paddleboarding and pedal boating. These leisure activities are seasonal; availability may vary depending on the season. If you plan to include them in your trip, bear in mind the summer season and check availability for your visit.
There are freely accessible play structures for children by the lake; a volleyball court, tables, barbecue facilities and restrooms are also available. Fishing is another option: Lac du Moulinet is a Category 1 fishing lake. Species found there include rainbow and brown trout, pike, perch, tench, chub and small river-dwelling cyprinids. This gives you a choice of activities when planning, from walks on the trails and summer activities to spending time by the water.
Sainte Anne Church and the Digue du Moulinet
The present-day Sainte Anne Church was rebuilt in 1858 using materials from the earlier church. Its floor plan is in the shape of a Latin cross. The church forecourt offers an unobstructed view. Its architectural and construction history makes a visit to the church a cultural stop in its own right, alongside the nature and water experiences.
The Digue du Moulinet is another trace of the area’s history. It was built in 1959 on the Crueize, a tributary of the Colagne. Its purpose was to divert water via the Triboulin to the Truyère and generate hydroelectric power. This overflow dam is 5 m high and 141 m long. The watercourses connected to the structure give its history a specific geographical context.
Planning Your Trip and Accommodation
Lac du Moulinet can be reached via exit 37 of the A75; then follow the D809 towards Saint Sauveur de Peyre. In July and August, the lake is served on Wednesdays and Fridays by tourist LiO line 260 on the Mende–Marvejols–Nasbinals route; bicycles are permitted. If you plan to use this service, check the timetable before your trip.
When choosing a hotel in Le Buisson, you can start by deciding what you want your stay to focus on: the circular trail and lakeshore scenery, seasonal water activities, or the church and the dam. Then plan around the activities you want to do and how you’ll get there. If you’re interested in the leisure activities offered in summer, be sure to factor in the season.
Discover more destinations: Saint-Michel-De-Dèze, Chastanier, La Panouse, Saint-Laurent-De-Trèves, Meyrueis, Le Collet-De-Dèze, Gatuzières, Saint-Rome-de-Dolan.
For the broader travel overview: Lozère.
