Etang du Vaulaurent, also known as Golden Valley Lake, is a truly unique carp fishing venue with a rich history dating back more than 250 years. Originally created by monks for fish farming, the lake was built in a stunning natural valley where several freshwater streams continuously feed the water with fresh, oxygen-rich flow. The peaceful surroundings and natural setting make this one of the most beautiful carp fishing destinations in France.

A few years ago, Michel transformed this magnificent 12-hectare (29.65-acre) lake into a well-managed and welcoming carp fishing venue designed specifically for anglers looking for quality fishing and comfort. Since then, the lake has developed into an outstanding destination with an impressive stock of around 550 healthy and powerful carp.

The lake record currently stands at an incredible 32.5kg (72lb), and the venue offers excellent opportunities to catch multiple big fish during a session. The carp are known for their strength, condition, and beautiful appearance, making every capture a memorable experience.

One of the first things anglers notice upon arrival is the exceptional condition of the venue. The entire domain is extremely clean, tidy, and professionally maintained, from the swims and accommodation to the facilities and surrounding grounds. Combined with the warm hospitality of Michel and Cécile, as well as the excellent customer service available in English, Etang du Vaulaurent offers everything needed for a relaxing and successful carp fishing holiday in France.

The Lake

Etang du Vaulaurent is located in beautiful Brittany, the westernmost region of France and a highly popular destination for anglers looking to enjoy nature, peace, and excellent carp fishing. Surrounded by rolling countryside and fed by several natural freshwater streams, the lake offers a perfect setting for a relaxing fishing holiday in France.

The lake itself covers approximately 30 acres and features comfortable, easily fishable depths ranging from 1.4m to 3.5m. The lakebed mainly consists of gravel and sand, covered with a light layer of silt and mud — ideal conditions for carp fishing and bait presentation.

One of the great advantages of Vaulaurent is the relatively obstacle-free water, allowing anglers to fish with confidence and enjoy safer fights with big carp. The only notable obstacle is a large rock formation located to the right of Swim 4, where a little extra care is recommended during the fight. In front of Swim 5, anglers will find a beautiful area of lily pads, creating a natural holding spot where carp regularly patrol and feed.

Another major benefit of the venue is the complete absence of catfish, making sessions more comfortable and allowing anglers to focus entirely on targeting the lake’s impressive carp stock.

The Swims

Etang du Vaulaurent features 8 well-spaced swims around the lake, while maintaining a maximum capacity of only 11 anglers at any one time. This limited number of fishermen guarantees a peaceful atmosphere, plenty of water to explore, and a relaxed carp fishing experience throughout your stay.

Swims 3, 4, 6, 7, and 8 can be booked for either one or two anglers, while the remaining swims are intended for two anglers. Groups of three fishermen can comfortably combine neighbouring swims such as 3 and 4, 6 and 7, or 7 and 8. Swim 5 is reserved exclusively for solo anglers, offering maximum privacy and tranquillity.

Swims 1 and 2 are the most comfortable spots on the venue and each feature a fully equipped lakeside cabin suitable for up to four people. These cabins include electricity, heating, running water, a fridge, and a small kitchen area, making them ideal for anglers who want extra comfort during their fishing holiday. The cabins contain two beds, and many guests bring an additional bedchair when staying with more than two people. WIFI coverage from the clubhouse also reaches these swims.

Swim 5 is slightly more difficult to access, but anglers who make the effort are rewarded with one of the most beautiful and secluded spots on the lake. The final stretch to the swim must be done on foot, as vehicles cannot reach the peg directly. Once settled in, you will enjoy complete peace, privacy, and stunning views across the water.

To improve comfort and fishing conditions, Swim 6 is equipped with a spacious wooden pontoon large enough to accommodate two rodpods comfortably.

Every swim has a BBQ and a fix weigh-sling.

The Stock

Etang du Vaulaurent is home to an exceptionally impressive carp stock, making it one of the most attractive big fish venues in the region. Based on historical catch pictures, it was estimated that around 200 carp already lived in the lake before the major restocking programme began. Between 2013 and 2015, owner Michel introduced an additional 350 carp, creating a massive stock of approximately 550 carp in just 30 acres of water.

The lake record currently stands at an incredible 32.5kg (72lb), caught from one of the lake’s beautiful mirror carp. The largest common carp recorded weighs 22kg. In total, the lake holds around 25 mirror carp over the magical 20kg mark, along with another 5 common carp above 20kg, giving anglers a genuine opportunity to catch multiple specimen fish during a session.

The carp at Vaulaurent are known not only for their size, but also for their excellent condition, strength, and stunning appearance, making every capture a memorable experience.

Anglers should keep in mind that the lake also contains bream. For that reason, Michel strongly recommends avoiding the use of particles and pellets. Larger hookbaits and selective baiting strategies generally produce much better results and help reduce unwanted attention from nuisance fish.

Service & Facilities

Etang du Vaulaurent offers excellent facilities to make your carp fishing holiday as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. Anglers have access to two clean and well-maintained bathroom facilities with showers and toilets, located centrally on the venue.

At the entrance of the lake, guests can make use of a welcoming clubhouse equipped with freezers, a microwave, hot and cold water, heating, and a small kitchen area. The clubhouse is open to all customers and also provides WIFI access during your stay. For anglers fishing Swims 5, 6, 7, and 8, bicycles can also be rented to make moving around the venue easier and more comfortable.

There is no need to bring your own weigh sling or unhooking mat, as both are provided on every swim free of charge.

For anglers who prefer a fully relaxed stay, a food package is available for €170 per person per week. This includes a daily breakfast — either continental or English style — as well as a complete warm evening meal with dessert. An additional meal can also be ordered on arrival day in the clubhouse if required.

A small selection of tackle and fishing essentials is available for purchase on the venue. The shop mainly serves as a convenient “first aid” solution for forgotten or urgently needed items during your session.

Essential local services are located very nearby. In the village of Saint-Martin, just a three-minute drive away, anglers will find a bakery, butcher, pharmacy, doctor, and other useful shops. Larger supermarkets can be found in Calentoir or Malestroit, both approximately ten minutes from the lake.

Boat rental is available for anglers fishing Swims 1 and 2 at a cost of €57 per week. Boats are normally only permitted on these swims, although during exclusive lake bookings, boats may be used across the entire venue.