Top 5 Most Beautiful Lakes in the Jura

"Happy as a fish in water", that's the saying, isn't it? Often after work you feel the need to fill your bathtub and take a nice hot bath to wash and purify yourself from an exhausting day... At the same time, when we know that 60% of the human body is composed of water, we can easily imagine that swimming helps to stimulate, repair and soothe our organs. Did you know? The Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region, in the Jura, is one of the regions of France that is home to the most beautiful lakes. We invite you to discover some of the kingdoms of the Jura.

What are the most beautiful lakes for swimming in the Jura?

1. Lake Saint-Point

Let's start with the third largest lake in France "Lake Saint-Point", covering an area of 398 hectares. If you like to combine walking and swimming, you'll be pleased to learn that a lovely shaded path allows you to walk around this body of water. This freshwater expanse, of considerable size and depth, about 40 meters, happens to be a lake with easy access. Also, good news: water sports and fishing are allowed. How about hopping on a pedal boat and exploring the lake in peace and serenity? The 23 km trail that runs along the lake will allow you to walk around and take in the scenery and this body of water. Historically, the lake was primarily used by fishermen. But today, all the local communities authorize tourist activities, namely swimming and hiking in summer and skiing, and even ice skating in winter. To our great joy!

2. Lake Chalain

Attention, make way for the LARGEST natural lake in the Jura: Lake Chalain. His majesty proudly stands as the tenth largest lake in France and well deserves it with its 232 hectares! This glacial lake that you will find in the commune of Fontenu, near Marigny and Doucier, has a maximum depth of 32 m and was created following the Quaternary era. This is the most recent period on the geological time scale: it is due to the cycle of glaciations, hence its beautiful turquoise color that would make even the least swimming enthusiasts among you shiver. This period is characterized by the cycle of glaciations, and the evolutionary radiation of the genus Homo in Africa and Eurasia. The body of water is perfectly suited for athletes and families, for swimming or fishing, however unlike the one mentioned previously, the use of watercraft is strictly prohibited.

3. The Abbey Lake

As soon as the sun shows its face, the lake, also called "Grandvaux Lake" or "Grande-Rivière Lake", located in the commune of Grande-Rivière becomes the number 1 destination for bike rides or walks. The body of water which owes its name to the abbey dependent on that of Saint-Claude installed on its banks in the 12th century is about 12 meters deep for only 9 hectares. During summer, we advise you to take a dip at the small beach, but be careful, as the lake is private property, swimming is tolerated but not supervised. It's better to simply dip your feet in the cold water while looking at the horizon, and you'll feel as one with the beauty and tranquility of this ecosystem.

4. Lake Bonlieu

Honestly, if there were to be a romantic movie filmed about two lovers near a lake, the choice would without hesitation be Lake Bonlieu. At 17 hectares and 13 meters deep, almost hidden by a soothing green forest and dominated by a rocky ridge, this lake in the beautiful commune of Bonlieu clearly deserves its ranking on our list! Many love to photograph it, draw it, picnic near it, rest there, spread a towel and indulge in a yoga or meditation session... It's one of the most picturesque and charming lakes in the Jura. You know, it's the kind of place that encourages mental relaxation, that gives you the impression that all your problems fly away in the breeze, and that makes you feel good.

5. Lake Les Rousses

Located in the hollow of Val de l'Orbe, Lake Les Rousses is 90 hectares and 19 meters deep. It has a very precious feature that sets it apart from other lakes in the region: its water is so pure and natural that it is used by some municipalities as drinking water. Yes indeed, Mother Nature provides both what nourishes and heals when she is cherished and respected. Listen carefully and keep your eyes open, you can discover the typical fauna and flora of the Jura highland peat bogs by walking along a trail along the lake. The clarity and peacefulness of the water will make you want to swim, and a water sports base with equipment rental allows you to enjoy it even more. If you get a little hungry along the way, the lake base also offers a picnic area equipped with tables. A little corner of paradise in its simplest form!

It was more than 10,000 years ago, the melting of glaciers gave birth to numerous basins, which, over time, transformed into the lakes you know today.