The best swimming spots during your river houseboat cruise

No licence, no experience, and completely safe

The best swimming spots on a summer river cruise

In summer, there's nothing more pleasant than gliding along the canals... and plunging into cool water to beat the heat! The good news is that while you're on a licence-free houseboat, there are a number of lakes, beaches and riversides that are perfect for safe swimming.

Here's a selection of tried and tested must-see bathing spots, where you can combine relaxation, navigation and refreshing moments on the water.

Jouarres Lake (Homps) to try out on a river cruise on the Canal du Midi

When you're enjoying a river cruise on the Canal du Midi aboard a licence-free houseboat, Jouarres Lake is a must for a refreshing stopover surrounded by nature. Easily accessible from your houseboat moored at Homps marina, this large lake is a real little paradise for swimming, sunbathing or enjoying a picnic.

At the height of summer, the supervised beach makes it a reassuring choice for families: fine sand, shady lawns and a well-marked swimming area. Fancy something more active? Hire a paddle board or pedalo to explore the lake, or just enjoy a nap under the pines.

Tip: Just a stone's throw away, the Maison des Vins du Minervois invites you to a tasting — the perfect excuse to extend your break after a swim!

Boat access: Easy mooring at Homps marina. 10-minute walk or cycle to the lake.

Ideal for: A relaxing half-day before continuing your cruise.

Take a dip in Glénac during your river houseboat cruise on the Canal de Nantes à Brest

Looking for a refreshing swim right in the heart of Brittany? Stop off at Glénac, on the banks of the Canal de Nantes à Brest. This quiet riverside stopover is perfect for mooring your licence-free houseboat and enjoying a natural swim.

The leisure area is ideal for swimming, and there’s more: canoeing, kayaking or paddle boarding depending on your mood. As a bonus, La Gacilly is just a short walk away — stroll through the craft shops and admire the famous open-air Photo Festival.

Little extra: Kids love this spot — swimming, an ice cream at the snack bar and exploring the village.

Boat access: Fully equipped pontoons at Glénac for an easy and pleasant stopover.

Ideal for: A full day of swimming plus a village visit.

Etang de Baye: a natural spot for a swim during a licence-free houseboat cruise in Burgundy

Nestled in the heart of the Canal du Nivernais, a stop at the Etang de Baye is perfect for nature lovers looking for a quiet swimming break. Surrounded by forests and footpaths, this peaceful spot is ideal for cooling off after a few hours of cruising.

The atmosphere is calm, the water is clean, and it's easy to unwind. Spread your towel on the grass, rent a pedalo or explore the nearby nature reserve by boat.

Bonus: History fans will love visiting the nearby Collancelle Vaults — an impressive underground feat of engineering linking the Loire and Seine basins.

Boat access: Mooring near the Baye lock, beach within walking distance.

Ideal for: A laid-back afternoon in the countryside.

Enjoy the river beach at Gray on the Petite Saône during your houseboat holiday

Cruising the Petite Saône is already a promise of lush scenery, but stopping at Gray’s river beach makes it even better. Here you'll find a real riverside beach with Blue Flag status: well-kept lawns, fine sand, a play area for kids and lifeguards in summer.

While the little ones splash around, parents can relax under a parasol or grab a drink at the snack bar. The area is clean and well-equipped: showers, toilets and picnic tables.

Little extra: After swimming, wander through Gray’s historic centre — old bridge, castle and the Baron Martin Museum are all worth a visit.

Boat access: Gray’s marina is fully equipped for mooring your licence-free houseboat.

Ideal for: A swim stop and a town visit.

Saint-Cirq-Lapopie: swimming and canoeing on the Lot during your river cruise

A stop at Saint-Cirq-Lapopie during a river cruise on the Lot is pure magic. The river is crystal clear, the cliffs impressive and the water sports base has it all: safe, supervised swimming areas, plus canoe and paddle hire to explore the Lot's winding bends.

The experience is even better if you climb up to the medieval village: cobbled streets, local shops and stunning views over the valley. Families and couples alike adore this picturesque stopover.

Tip: End the day with a plate of local Quercy specialities on a terrace by the river.

Boat access: Saint-Cirq-Lapopie river port, direct access to the leisure base.

Ideal for: A full day of swimming, canoeing and village exploring.