Top 20 Lakes around Le Chenit
Best lakes around Le Chenit are situated in the Vallée de Joux, a high valley in the Jura Mountains. This region is characterized by its natural landscapes, including large bodies of water like Lac de Joux and smaller, distinct lakes. The area offers diverse natural features, from extensive forests to unique geological formations where water drains underground. It serves as a destination for various outdoor activities throughout the year.
Best lakes around Le Chenit
- The most popular lake is Lac…
Last updated: May 3, 2026
Lac de Joux
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Lac de Joux
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Forest trail by Lake de Joux
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Les Rousses
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Le Pont
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Popular around Le Chenit
Tips from the Community
A very nice border village to relax in after a bike ride (from Geneva in our case). We spent the afternoon and a night camping near the lake. Shops nearby for supplies 👍
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A lovely section of the mountain bike trail. Chamois encounters are almost guaranteed. Before descending to Les Charbonnières, there's a slight variation to the right, passing through an old ski jump.
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Wonder Lake to cycle around plenty of cafe and different routes you can take.
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Excellent first day with lots of climbing - Col de la Combe Blanche, Col de l'Aiguillon and a third smaller col between them. The views are wonderful and no cars on most sections with a few road parts that were not very busy.
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It is a typical Jura village. It benefits from a lot of sporting and cultural activities. It is the starting point for many hikes. It is located on the route of the Grande Traversée du Jura or GTJ (https://www.gtj.asso.fr/). To be discovered in all seasons, whether on foot, by bike, by mountain bike, by snowshoes or by ski.
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Pretty village to the north of Lac de Joux, right on the water's edge with its boats and its beach. Note that it is one of the rare places in the heart of the Jura that is sheltered from the north winds.
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With a bit of luck you can spot chamois on this section.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What unique natural features characterize the lakes around Le Chenit?
The lakes in the Vallée de Joux, such as Lac de Joux and Lac Brenet, are notable for having no surface water run-off; their waters seep into the calcareous subsoil and reappear kilometers away. Lac de Joux is also one of the few lakes in Switzerland with sandy beaches, while Lac des Rousses is a glacial overflow lake surrounded by bogs.
Are there family-friendly activities available at the lakes in Le Chenit?
Yes, the lakes offer several family-friendly options. Lac de Joux is great for swimming with its warm waters and sandy beaches. Lac Brenet features a didactic path around its shores, perfect for educational family walks. The village of Le Pont, located on Lac de Joux, also offers amenities and a beach suitable for families.
What water sports can I enjoy on Lac de Joux?
Lac de Joux is known for its favorable wind conditions, making it popular for sailing and windsurfing. You can also enjoy rowing, water skiing, and wakeboarding. In July and August, scheduled boat cruises are available from Le Pont.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Le Chenit?
The lakes are beautiful year-round. Summer (June to August) is ideal for swimming, water sports, cycling, and hiking, with water temperatures in Lac de Joux ranging from 18 to 24 degrees Celsius. In winter, when conditions allow, Lac de Joux transforms into Switzerland's largest natural ice-skating rink.
Are there hiking trails around the lakes in Le Chenit?
Yes, there are extensive hiking trails. A popular option is the 23-kilometer circular hike around Lac de Joux. For more challenging routes, you can explore mountain hikes like the Dent de Vaulion – Lac de Joux loop from Le Pont. Lac Brenet also has a didactic path that can be circumnavigated in about an hour.
Can I cycle around the lakes in Le Chenit?
Absolutely. Lac de Joux can be completely circled by bike, offering beautiful beaches and swimming spots for breaks. There are extensive cycling and mountain biking routes throughout the area. You can find more options in the Cycling around Le Chenit guide.
What winter activities are available at the lakes?
In winter, when temperatures drop sufficiently, Lac de Joux freezes over, becoming the largest natural ice-skating rink in Switzerland. Equipment can be rented in nearby villages like Le Sentier or Le Pont. Lac des Rousses also freezes, allowing for ice skating.
Are there any historical points of interest near the lakes?
Lac Brenet has explanatory panels along its shores detailing historical human activities, including the sixty-year exploitation of its natural ice by ice makers. You can learn more about its history on Wikipedia.
Where can I find amenities like cafes and restaurants near the lakes?
The villages surrounding Lac de Joux, such as Le Sentier, Le Pont, and L'Abbaye, offer a range of hotels, restaurants, and cafes. Le Pont, in particular, has several café terraces and bakeries with superb views of the lake.
What makes Lac Ter unique among the lakes in the Vallée de Joux?
Lac Ter, a smaller lake in the upper Vallée de Joux, is known for its long banks of reeds. It's a popular spot for fishermen, attracting those looking to catch perch, roach, gudgeon, and pike. Like Lac de Joux, it can also freeze completely in very cold winters.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Le Chenit?
Visitors frequently praise the tranquil and peaceful atmosphere, the stunning mountain views, and the uncrowded shores. Many appreciate the diverse activities available, from swimming and water sports in summer to ice skating and cross-country skiing in winter. The natural beauty and unspoiled nature of the high valley are consistently highlighted.
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