Attractions and Places To See around Bonlieu - Top 20

The region is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, particularly its waterfalls and lakes. Don't miss the Le Grand Saut, the highest of the Hérisson waterfalls with a 60-meter free fall, and the Fan Waterfall, known for its unique stepped layout. For panoramic views, visit Pic de l'Aigle, offering vistas of the Jura mountains and, on clear days, Mont Blanc.

For breathtaking vistas, head to Pic de l'Aigle, where you can see the Ilay gorges and the plateaus above the Saône plain, with Mont Blanc visible in good weather. Another excellent spot is the Three Lakes Viewpoint, which provides a unique panorama of three lakes, notable for their distinctive whitish rim.

Families will enjoy exploring the Hérisson Waterfalls, which offer accessible paths to various cascades like the Fan Waterfall. The nearby Parc Animalier du Hérisson, located about 3.4 km from Bonlieu, is another great option for visitors with children. Many of the lakes in the region also offer opportunities for walking and relaxation suitable for families.

Bonlieu is a fantastic base for hiking. You can explore the Hérisson Waterfalls on trails like the 'Hérisson Waterfalls Loop' or enjoy lakeside walks such as the 'Lac de Bonlieu — loop from Bonlieu'. For more challenging routes with stunning views, consider the 'Pic de l'Aigle – Three Lakes Viewpoint loop'. You can find more details and routes in the Hiking around Bonlieu guide.

Absolutely! The area offers various routes for running and other outdoor activities. You can enjoy a scenic run around 'Lac de Bonlieu' or tackle more challenging trails that incorporate attractions like Pic de l'Aigle and the Hérisson Waterfalls. Discover more options in the Running Trails around Bonlieu guide and the Mountain Hikes around Bonlieu guide.

The region, often called the 'Pays des Lacs' (Lakes Region), features several beautiful glacial lakes. Lac de Bonlieu is known for its wild, untouched nature and 'black' waters, popular for fishing. The Three Lakes Viewpoint offers a unique perspective on lakes with a distinctive whitish rim, a result of a chemical phenomenon involving chalk at their bottoms. Lac de Chalain is also considered one of the most beautiful in the Jura.

Historically, Bonlieu was home to a charterhouse founded in the 12th century, which later became an abbey. While the original charterhouse is no longer an active tourist site, its historical presence is a significant part of the village's heritage, with the monks having cultivated the land for centuries.

The Saut Girard Waterfall is part of the Hérisson series and features a larger pool and a smaller cascade set in a beautiful natural environment. It's notable for a small stone lynx statue located in front of it and serves as a great starting point for hikes through the Hérisson valley.

Visitors consistently praise the stunning natural beauty, particularly the dramatic Hérisson Waterfalls and the panoramic views from spots like Pic de l'Aigle. The tranquility of Lac de Bonlieu and the unique characteristics of the 'whitish rim' lakes seen from the Three Lakes Viewpoint are also highly appreciated.

When visiting the Hérisson Waterfalls, be aware that the Fan Waterfall has a secure platform for observation. For the most impressive flow, it's best to visit after rainfall, as some cascades, like the Fan Waterfall, can be almost dry in summer. The Le Grand Saut is the highest and most spectacular, offering an impressive natural monument.

Beyond Lac de Bonlieu, the 'Pays des Lacs' offers many other beautiful lakes shaped by glaciers. These include Lake Clairvaux, Lac de Chalain (often cited as one of the most beautiful in the Jura), Lac d'Ilay, Lac du Val, Lacs de Maclu, Lac du Vernois, Lac de Narlay, Lac de Chambly, Lac du Fioget, Lac de l'Abbaye, Lac des Rousses, and Lac de Lamoura. Each offers unique scenery and opportunities for relaxation or walking.