Top 16 Lakes around Bonlieu

The lakes around Bonlieu, particularly Lac de Bonlieu, are primarily glacial in origin, formed about 10,000 years ago. They are nestled within forests and often overlooked by rocky ridges, creating a dramatic landscape. Lac de Bonlieu is known for its deep, 'black' waters, a characteristic due to its depth and the surrounding geological composition of peat bogs, calcaires, and marl. The area is also part of a Natura 2000 site, protecting its rich biodiversity.

Yes, the region offers several excellent viewpoints. The Three Lakes Viewpoint provides a panorama of three lakes, notable for their whitish rim caused by chalk mud. For more experienced hikers, ascents to panoramic spots like La Ronde and Le Maguenay offer breathtaking bird's-eye views of Lac de Bonlieu and the surrounding forest. The Belvedere de la Ronde is also accessible by car.

Swimming is generally prohibited in Lac de Bonlieu to preserve its delicate ecosystem. However, swimming is permitted in Lake Narlay, which is located nearby and offers a charming path around its perimeter through forests and meadows.

Lac de Bonlieu is a protected natural area with rich biodiversity. Its waters are home to various fish species, including pike, perch, whitefish, Arctic char, and roach. The surrounding area also hosts species like the lynx and peregrine falcon. The Maclu lakes, part of a Natura 2000 area, provide an exceptional habitat for many animal species, with wetlands rich in water lilies, reeds, rushes, and sedges.

Historically, the Chartreuse Notre Dame de Bonlieu monastery was founded on the edge of Lac de Bonlieu around 1170, though its buildings were destroyed and no trace remains today. Further afield, the Church of Our Lady of the Nativity of the Abbey and Abbey Site of Grandvaux is a significant historical site. It includes remnants of a 12th-century monastery, with an old farm building, a presbytery, and a church dedicated to Notre-Dame de la Nativité.

You can enjoy walks around Lac de Bonlieu, with a path that follows the lakeside before venturing into the woods. For more extensive hiking, the region offers various trails. For example, you can find mountain hikes like the 'Fan Waterfall – Le Grand Saut loop' or 'Le Grand Saut – Saut de la Forge loop' from Bonlieu. You can explore these and other routes in the Mountain Hikes around Bonlieu guide.

Yes, the area is suitable for families. Petit Maclu Lake and Lake Ilay are both highlighted as family-friendly. The path around Petit Maclu Lake is easy and shaded, perfect for cooling off. The tour around Lake Ilay is also considered easy. The peaceful atmosphere of Lac de Bonlieu itself is ideal for contemplation and connecting with nature for all ages.

The lakes around Bonlieu are beautiful year-round, but the best time depends on your preferred activities. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for hiking, fishing, and enjoying the lush greenery. The autumn brings stunning fall foliage, while winter can offer opportunities for winter hiking, though conditions may vary. The tranquil atmosphere is a constant, often only interrupted by birdsong.

Beyond hiking, the Bonlieu area offers various outdoor activities. Fishing is popular in Lac de Bonlieu due to its rich fish population. You can also find gravel biking routes, such as the 'Lac de Clairvaux-les-Lacs – Pyle Bridge loop' or 'Shore of Lac de Narlay – Grand Maclu Lake loop'. For runners, there are dedicated trails like the 'Lac de Bonlieu — loop — running from Bonlieu'. More details on these activities can be found in the Gravel biking around Bonlieu guide and the Running Trails around Bonlieu guide.

While Lac de Bonlieu is a popular spot, the region is part of a larger 'lakes region' in the Jura, offering opportunities to discover other aquatic gems. The Maclu lakes (Petit Maclu Lake) and Lake Narlay are part of this interconnected system and can offer a more serene experience, especially during off-peak times. Exploring these smaller, adjacent lakes can provide a quieter connection with nature.

The Maclu lakes, including Petit Maclu Lake, are part of a string of lakes connected by a small stream. They are located in a Natura 2000 area, providing an exceptional habitat for many animal species. These wetlands are particularly rich, featuring water lilies, reeds, rushes, and sedges. The Petit Maclu, with a maximum depth of 11 meters, offers an easy, shaded path around it, making it a pleasant spot for a walk.

There are various routes around Lac de Bonlieu. A running trail, 'Lac de Bonlieu — loop — running from Bonlieu', covers approximately 4 km and is considered easy. A longer 'Lac de Bonlieu – Lake Bonlieu loop from Bonlieu' is about 8.9 km and is rated as moderate. The time it takes will depend on your pace and the specific trail chosen.

While specific regulations for dogs on every trail are not detailed, many natural areas in France welcome dogs on leash. Given the emphasis on family-friendly and easy walks around lakes like Petit Maclu, it's generally possible to bring dogs. However, always ensure your dog is on a leash and that you clean up after them to respect the protected natural environment.