This is a very liberal translation of recent coverage in Sud Ouest, the local newspaper, about the completely rejuvenated Lac de Gurson. It is being reopened on Bastille Day, 14 July, although based on what we’ve seen this will probably be confined to the beach side. The restaurant side looked like a mess when we last visited so that is probably going to miss this summer and come back into use next year. There is building work going on at the far side but it’s currently difficult to see what it will be. I’ll provide updates! Apologies to the journalists from whose articles I have compiled this!
“Acquired by the General Council, the Lac de Gurson at Villefranche-de-Lonchat is currently experiencing many changes.
“You can try out canoeing, stand-up paddle or waterskiing babyski for children!
“Go to the coast? To stick your towel against the next person on the beach? I rather prefer the Lac de Gurson, close to Villefranche-de-Lonchat: you will find all the peace to which you aspire. Since its inception in 1980, the water has always breathed authenticity: it does not come to Gurson to play like all the others, but to appreciate the simplicity of the venue and its serenity. The atmosphere is always calm, just disturbed by the occasional sound of children jumping into the water, under the watchful eye of lifeguard monitors.
“In previous years this little luxury had a price: 2,50 €. Nothing prohibitive, but still, one had to include it in one’s budget. Since the acquisition of the lake by the Conseil Général in January, paradise now comes with free access. “Nowadays, it’s good to learn that we do not have to always get out our wallets” says Jocelyne, a retired shop worker, who generally finds most times that “what you expect to be free ends up costing money”.
“Doting grandmother, Jocelyne is sure to offer her grandchildren the chance to participate in one or more activities on the site in the Dordogne summer. Quentin, the youngest, will be happy to “be able to try out ‘baby water skiing’,” she enthuses. Activities are open to those under 10 years and it reassures Jocelyne that first attempts are strictly regulated: children cling to a bar and are towed by a boat that walks on some of the water for ten minutes (8 euros per person, € 5 with pass).
“The older children, Gilles and Alice should be “happy to go rowing and trying a stand-up paddle, standing on a board with an oar to progress on water” (8 euros, 5 euros with the pass) unless they prefer to engage in a treasure hunt (8 euros, 5 euros with the pass) or just ride a horse in the woods and around the lake, 20 minutes to an hour (7 to 20 euros, from 5 to 14 euros with the pass).
“Not enough to make her jealous Aude, the older visitor, has her own activities and “should enjoy archery” (8 euros, 5 euros with the pass) or riding with an itinerary, preparation of horses and a ride around Lake (18 euros, 12 euros with the pass).
“There is also discounted access to other venues.”
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