Top 9 Lakes around La Chaumusse
Lakes around La Chaumusse, located in the Jura department of France, are a prominent feature of the region's natural landscape. This area is characterized by numerous lakes, many of which are interconnected and form part of a scenic "chapelet de lacs." The lakes are situated within a Natura 2000 zone, highlighting their ecological importance and rich biodiversity. Visitors can explore diverse natural attractions, from wetlands with unique flora to panoramic viewpoints.
Best lakes around La Chaumusse
- The most popular lakes…
Last updated: July 6, 2026
Three Lakes Viewpoint
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Petit Maclu Lake
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Located in a Natura 2000 area, the lake offers …
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Lake Narlay
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A charming path goes around it, through the …
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Lake Ilay
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Church of Our Lady of the Nativity of the Abbey and Abbey Site of Grandvaux
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🌿 Lake Narlay: Essential Information Location: Frasnois municipality, in the Lakes Region (Jura). Altitude: 748 m. Surface area: 41 ha. Depth: Up to 40 m, making it the deepest lake in the Jura. Origin: Glacial lake, likely formed by a rockfall. Environment: Meadows, forests, peat bogs, Natura 2000 and Ramsar sites. (Copilot)
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Lac d'Ilay, also called Lac de la Motte, is a lake in the Jura department of France, about 14 km south of Champagnole in Franche-Comté. It lies at an altitude of 774 m in the municipalities of Le Frasnois and La Chaux-du-Dombief and covers an area of approximately 0.7 km². The lake is 1.9 km long, has a maximum width of 400 m, and has a small island (Île de la Motte). Its greatest depth is 32 m.
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Lac de Narlay is a lake in the Jura department of France, about 10 km south of Champagnole in Franche-Comté. It lies at an altitude of 748 m in the municipality of Le Frasnois and covers an area of approximately 0.4 km². The lake is 950 m long and 625 m wide. Its maximum depth is 40 m.
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Lacs de Maclu are two adjacent lakes in the western part of the French Jura, in the Jura department of Franche-Comté. They are located at an elevation of 779 m in a depression in the High Jura, in the region of the Five Lakes near Le Frasnois, about 12 km south of Champagnole. The Petit Maclu, located to the northeast, has an area of 5 hectares, a length of about 500 m, and a maximum width of about 120 m. Its greatest depth is 11 m. It lies entirely within the municipal territory of Le Frasnois.
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Easy, shaded path, perfect for cooling off in hot weather.
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The monks of Saint-Claude are credited with establishing a monastery in the 6th century to the southwest of the Abbey Lake on the island known as sur la Motte. Then, probably having fallen into disuse for several centuries, a second monastery succeeded it in the 12th century (1172) built to the northeast of the lake on the current site of the hamlet of l'Abbaye by the canons of the Abbey of Abondance (Augustinians of Haute-Savoie). The status of abbey, served by a particular abbot, remained for a century, until the monastery was the subject of an exchange of goods between the abbot of Abondance and that of Saint-Claude. Once again dependent on the Abbey of Saint-Claude, the Abbey of Grandvaux regained the status of priory. From the fortified buildings of the 12th century, which were accessed by a drawbridge, there remains today an old farm building (called La Joséphine after the former owner of the place), a presbytery and a church, dedicated to Notre-Dame de la Nativité, like that of Abondance. The site has been listed since September 15, 1966. A site to discover through a stroll in 4 scenes, evoking the history of the site.
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The tour of the lakes is not of much interest, mainly being wide paths, without much relief, and with no view worthy of the name, including on the lakes (which we see very little, except on the eastern part, which is a shame). The western part is even difficult (we follow the road for 2km...). In short, a walk to forget, except perhaps for a running outing, or a detour via the Eagle peak.
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A magnificent hike from the parking lot of the first lake via the Pic de l'Aigle and then the Belvederes overlooking the lakes, a magnificent site
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most scenic viewpoints for the lakes around La Chaumusse?
For breathtaking panoramas, visit the Three Lakes Viewpoint. From here, you can observe the characteristic whitish rim of the lakes, a unique phenomenon caused by chalk deposits. The "Around the 4 Lakes" hike also offers diverse views, including a panoramic viewpoint of the interconnected lakes.
Which lakes are part of the '4 Lakes' area near La Chaumusse?
The scenic '4 Lakes' area includes Lac d'Ilay, Grand Maclu, Petit Maclu, and Lac de Narlay. These lakes form a 'chapelet de lacs' (string of lakes) connected by a small stream and are part of a Natura 2000 zone, highlighting their ecological importance.
Are there good hiking trails around the lakes near La Chaumusse?
Yes, the region offers numerous hiking opportunities. You can explore the 11km 'Around the 4 Lakes' hike, or enjoy a shorter 4km walk along the banks of Lac de Bonlieu. For more challenging options, consider the 16km loop hike around Lac des Mortes and Lac Bellefontaine, accessible only on foot. You can find more hiking routes in the Mountain Hikes around La Chaumusse guide.
Can I swim in the lakes around La Chaumusse?
Several lakes in the area are suitable for swimming. Lake Narlay permits swimming, and Lac de Bonlieu features a beach. Lac de Lamoura and Lac Genin also offer designated swimming spots, making them popular choices for a refreshing dip.
Are there family-friendly lakes around La Chaumusse with activities?
Absolutely. Petit Maclu Lake is known for being family-friendly, with its wetlands providing an interesting natural environment. Lac de Lamoura is particularly appealing for families, offering picnic areas, children's games, and designated swimming spots in a serene setting. Lac Genin also provides a lovely family walk around its footpath.
What unique natural features can I observe around the lakes?
The lakes are situated within a Natura 2000 zone, known for its rich biodiversity. You can observe vibrant wetlands around lakes like Petit Maclu Lake, featuring water lilies, reeds, rushes, and sedges. Lac de Lamoura and Lac Genin are notable for their exceptional flora, including peat bogs and aquatic moss.
What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes besides hiking?
Beyond hiking, the region offers excellent opportunities for cycling. You can find various routes for gravel biking and mountain biking. Explore options like the 'Shore of Lac de Narlay – Grand Maclu Lake loop' for gravel biking, or the 'Labaye de grandvaux loop' for mountain biking. More details are available in the Gravel biking around La Chaumusse guide and the MTB Trails around La Chaumusse guide.
Are there easy walks suitable for beginners or families around the lakes?
Yes, there are several easy options. The path around Petit Maclu Lake is described as easy and shaded, perfect for cooling off. Lake Ilay also offers a nice, easy walk around its perimeter. The 18.5km hike around Lac Saint-Point is long but considered easy, alternating between lakeside, meadows, and forest.
What is the best time to visit the lakes near La Chaumusse?
The lakes offer beauty throughout the year, but autumn is particularly stunning around Lac de Bonlieu, as the vibrant leaves of the surrounding trees reflect in its waters. From April 15th to September 15th, a voluntary tranquility zone is established around the '4 Lakes' to protect wildlife, making it an ideal time for nature observation while respecting designated paths.
What makes Lac de Nantua a unique lake to visit in the broader Jura region?
Lac de Nantua is a vast glacier lake known for its striking hues, ranging from sapphire to emerald, and is surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs. It offers a safe path for walkers and cyclists around its perimeter, and swimming is permitted, providing a diverse experience from other lakes in the area.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around La Chaumusse?
Visitors frequently praise the stunning views, especially from spots like the Three Lakes Viewpoint. The tranquility, fresh air, and the opportunity for diverse activities like hiking and swimming are also highly valued. The unique natural features, such as the wetlands and the 'whitish rim' of some lakes, also captivate many.
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