Top 10 Lakes around Les Crozets
Best lakes around Les Crozets are situated in the Jura department of France, an area defined by its natural glacial lakes. These bodies of water present diverse features and attractions for outdoor enthusiasts. The region offers opportunities for various activities, from water sports to hiking and wildlife observation. This landscape provides a setting for exploring natural beauty and historical sites.
Best lakes around Les Crozets
- The most popular lakes is Panoramic View of Lake Vouglans, a viewpoint that offers…
Last updated: June 22, 2026
Church of Our Lady of the Nativity of the Abbey and Abbey Site of Grandvaux
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Abbey Lake
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Viewpoint over Lake Vouglans
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La Fratte Viewpoint
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The viewpoint is secured by barriers and thus allows you to …
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Etival lakes
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Non-glacial lake, but artificial, filled in 1968 (Vouglans dam) swallowing the Wild Valley of the Ain river and three villages! But... superb body of water and protected region! To do: complete tour (80 kms), South 1/2 tour sometimes quite technical, and North 1/2 tour (fun), or even West coast from Orgelet-Plaisair or East side from Maisod - Coyron! Nice ride MC
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Perfect, with a group of young people, medium level. Very beautiful view of the lake
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Magnificent lake of glacial origin, at the foot of the first plateau of the Jura massif. Beautiful view of the turquoise lagoon from the sailing club.
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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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Lake L'Abbaye in the Jura Mountains is surrounded by hills and forests. Its clear waters reflect the landscape, offering a peaceful setting for boating, fishing, and hiking. Unfortunately, swimming is not permitted.
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This lake is one of the lesser known in the Jura, but it has its place, with stunning views all year round and the abbey which is its jewel.
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The La Fratte belvedere is a superb view of the cliffs overlooking the turquoise lake and the forest.
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The Lac de l'Abbaye is neither the best known nor the most spectacular of the Jura lakes. It still has its charm with beautiful lawns all around, conducive to siesta. Its abbey also contributes to the picturesque setting of this small lake.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes near Les Crozets are best for swimming and water sports?
For swimming and water sports, Lac de Chalain is an excellent choice, offering three supervised beaches during peak season (July-August) and opportunities for fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and sailing. Lac des Rousses also features a supervised swimming beach in summer and a water sports center. Lac de Lamoura provides supervised swimming and children's play areas. Swimming is permitted but unsupervised at Lac de l'Abbaye.
Are there any lakes with significant historical or cultural interest?
Yes, Lac de Chalain is historically significant for its prehistoric pile-dwelling settlements, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Lac de l'Abbaye takes its name from a 12th-century abbey on its banks, now a reconstructed 19th-century church, adding to its charm. You can explore the history of the abbey site at Church of Our Lady of the Nativity of the Abbey and Abbey Site of Grandvaux. The island of 'La Motte' in Lac d'Ilay also has archaeological discoveries dating back to the Neolithic period.
What are the best lakes for hiking and enjoying scenic views?
Many lakes offer great hiking. A 6.9km footpath encircles Lac de l'Abbaye, providing picturesque walks. The Four Lakes area (Lacs d'Ilay, Narlay, Petit Maclu, and Grand Maclu) is popular for the 12 km 'tour of the four lakes' (GR59A), with breathtaking vistas from viewpoints like Pic de l'Aigle and Belvédère des 4 Lacs. For stunning panoramic views, visit Panoramic View of Lake Vouglans or La Fratte Viewpoint. The Lacs d'Étival also feature a 3.3km footpath leading to a panoramic viewpoint.
Which lakes are particularly good for families with children?
Lac de Chalain is very family-friendly with supervised beaches and various water activities. Lac de Lamoura offers supervised swimming, children's play areas, and picnic spots. The belvederes like La Fratte Viewpoint and Panoramic View of Lake Vouglans are also noted as family-friendly spots for enjoying the views.
Are there accessible walking trails around the lakes for people with reduced mobility?
Yes, Lac de Lamoura features a discovery trail that is accessible for people with reduced mobility, allowing everyone to enjoy its exceptional diversity of flora, including peat bogs and wild orchids.
What unique natural features can I observe around the lakes?
The region is rich in natural beauty. Lac de Chalain is known for its striking turquoise waters and impressive limestone cliffs. Lac des Rousses and Lac de Lamoura are surrounded by unique peat bogs, contributing to their remarkable biological value and diverse flora. The Four Lakes area is a distinctive glacial landscape with beautifully preserved edges of meadows, peat bogs, and forests, part of Natura 2000 and Ramsar sites.
What outdoor activities, besides swimming, can I do near the lakes?
Beyond swimming, you can enjoy a variety of activities. Hiking, mountain biking, and horse riding are popular around Lac de Chalain. Lac des Rousses and Lac de Lamoura are excellent for hiking, mountain biking, and snowshoeing in winter. Fishing is popular at Lac de Chalain, Lac des Rousses, Lac de Lamoura, Lac de Bonlieu, the Four Lakes (especially Lac de Narlay), and the Lacs d'Étival. For more structured routes, you can find MTB Trails around Les Crozets, Cycling routes around Les Crozets, and Road Cycling Routes around Les Crozets.
Which lakes are protected natural sites or important for biodiversity?
Lac des Rousses is recognized as a protected Ramsar site due to its surrounding peat bogs and pure water. Lac de Lamoura boasts an exceptional diversity of flora, including peat bogs and wild orchids. Lac de Bonlieu is a highly protected natural site, providing habitat for diverse wildlife like lynx and peregrine falcons. The Four Lakes (Lacs d'Ilay, Narlay, Petit Maclu, and Grand Maclu) are part of the 'peat bogs and lakes of the Jura mountains' Natura 2000 and Ramsar sites, highlighting their ecological importance.
Can I visit the lakes during winter for activities like snowshoeing?
Yes, Lac des Rousses and Lac de Lamoura are suitable for snowshoeing during the winter months, offering a different perspective of the landscape.
Are there any lakes where swimming is prohibited?
Yes, to preserve their pristine environment and fragile ecosystems, swimming is prohibited in Lac de Bonlieu, the Four Lakes (Lacs d'Ilay, Narlay, Petit Maclu, and Grand Maclu), and the Lacs d'Étival. While Abbey Lake is picturesque, swimming is generally not permitted there either.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Les Crozets?
The best time to visit depends on your preferred activities. Summer (July-August) is ideal for swimming and water sports, with supervised beaches available at some lakes. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and enjoying the changing foliage. Winter provides opportunities for snowshoeing around lakes like Lac des Rousses and Lac de Lamoura.
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