4.6
(330)
3,524
riders
18
rides
Touring cycling routes around Le Frasnois are set within the Jura Lake District, part of the Regional Natural Park of Haut-Jura, at an altitude of 800 meters. The landscape is characterized by five natural lakes, including Lake Narlay, Lake Ilay, and the Maclu lakes, surrounded by meadows and fir trees. The area also features dense forests and the Hérisson Waterfalls, offering varied terrain for cycling. Geological features include limestone formations.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
5.0
(4)
62
riders
10.9km
00:42
110m
100m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
14
riders
18.9km
01:14
280m
280m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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10
riders
32.1km
02:11
490m
500m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
10
riders
29.0km
02:06
510m
510m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
5
riders
41.6km
02:40
500m
500m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Boat mooring with wooden dock for fishing boats at Lac de Narlay.
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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.
0
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The viewing platform is about 30m from the road after the rain a powerful waterfall.
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On most maps it is called "Lac d’Ilay". The other name probably comes from the small island "Île de la Motte" which is located in the lake.
1
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Very nice on the way back along the south of the lake
1
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There are over 15 touring cycling routes documented on komoot around Le Frasnois, offering a variety of options for different skill levels and preferences.
The routes in Le Frasnois traverse diverse landscapes, including glacial lakes like Lake Narlay, Lake Ilay, and the Maclu lakes, dense forests, and areas featuring the spectacular Hérisson Waterfalls. You'll encounter varied terrain, from relatively flat paths around the lakes to routes with significant elevation changes through the Jura mountains.
Yes, Le Frasnois offers several easy routes perfect for beginners or families. For instance, the Grand Maclu Lake – Lac de la Motte loop from La Fromagerie is an easy 11.3 km trail that takes about 45 minutes, circling two notable lakes. Another great option is the Lac de la Motte – Petit Maclu Lake loop from Le Frasnois, an easy 10.9 km path offering beautiful lake views.
For more experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, Le Frasnois has several difficult routes. The Lac de Chalain – Doucier Beach loop from Le Frasnois is a demanding 29 km route with over 500 meters of elevation gain. Another challenging option is the Scenic Forest Descent – Lac de Narlay loop from Le Frasnois, covering over 32 km with significant climbs.
Many of the touring cycling routes in Le Frasnois are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the popular Grand Maclu Lake – Lac de la Motte loop from La Fromagerie and the Narlay Lake Campsite – Scenic Forest Descent loop from Le Frasnois, which leads through forests and past Lake Narlay.
Le Frasnois is rich in natural beauty. You can cycle past the stunning Hérisson Waterfalls, including the impressive Fan Waterfall and Saut Girard Waterfall. The region is also famous for its five natural lakes, such as Petit Maclu Lake, which offer picturesque views. Don't miss the 'Four Lakes Lookout' for panoramic vistas of Lake Narlay, Lake Ilay, and the Maclu lakes. Pic de l'Aigle also provides extraordinary belvedere views of the Jura mountains and even Mont Blanc on clear days.
The Jura Lake District is particularly appealing for cyclists during the warmer months, typically from spring to autumn. During this time, the 'Little Scotland of the Jura' nickname truly comes alive with vibrant shades of blue and green. While some routes are accessible year-round, winter conditions can bring snow and ice, making many trails unsuitable for touring cycling.
The region is often called the 'Little Scotland of the Jura' due to its authentic and natural character. Routes that explore the area's unique glacial lakes, like the loops around Grand Maclu Lake and Lac de la Motte, offer particularly scenic experiences. The trails that pass near the Hérisson Waterfalls also provide a spectacular backdrop for your ride.
The touring cycling routes around Le Frasnois are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 100 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, the stunning lake views, and the tranquility of the forests, making it a rewarding destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
While Le Frasnois is a small village nestled in a natural park, public transport options directly to trailheads might be limited. It's advisable to check local bus schedules or consider driving to a central starting point, as many routes are circular and begin from locations like Le Frasnois village or La Fromagerie.
Parking is generally available in and around Le Frasnois village and at popular starting points for trails, such as near the lakes or specific attractions like the Hérisson Waterfalls. However, during peak season, these spots can fill up quickly, so arriving early is recommended.


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