Best lakes around Briord are found in the Ain department of eastern France, within the Bugey region. This area is characterized by its natural landscapes and proximity to several notable lakes. While Briord is a small commune, its surroundings offer diverse aquatic environments. The region provides various lakes for exploration and activities.
Last updated: October 22, 2026
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Lake Ambléon is located in the Bas-Bugey massif, in a valley of the Tentanet mountain (712 m above sea level). Its area is 5.58 hectares. Recognized as a natural zone of ecological, fauna and flora interest (ZNIEFF) type I, it is made up of a marshy part and a deeper zone, which however does not exceed ten meters in depth Lake Ambléon, accessible by the D41 road which connects Ambléon to Lhuis, is frequented in summer by fishermen and walkers. Nearby a stele was erected in memory of the Ambléon maquis. Source: Wikipedia
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La Vallée Bleue, a multi-activity leisure site in the Auvergne Rhône-Alpes region. It brings together a multitude of activities on the banks of the Rhône, in a remarkable natural setting. Lake on the Haut Rhône with rental of mountain bikes, water pedals, go-karts, stand up paddle, boats with and without a license, jet ski, mini golf, tourist steam train and bike rails, inflatable games, pony rides , flyboard, bicycle repair workshop, treetop course, permanent orienteering course. Restaurants. Aquapark with heated swimming pool, slide. Green spaces, fishing pond, picnic areas. 3* campsite with mobile home rentals and campervan service area in season, stopover gîte. Source: Isère Tourism
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Optevoz has been occupied since the Bronze Age. In the 19th century, limestone mining and agriculture were the main activities. At this time, the village became a place of stay for many painters seduced by the light and the landscapes (in particular the Vanne d'Optevoz represented in numerous paintings). Source: Optevoz website
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Leisure center with marina, entertainment, boat rental and a swimming pool (you are not actually allowed to swim in the Rhone, despite the sunbathing area right next to it)
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Not far from the Base de Loisirs de la Vallee Bleue there is an old house with these painted windows. Looks really good.
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Very very pretty loop... With some sections of major roads that can be avoided. For those who enjoy walking, you pass very close to the Brive waterfall!
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Beautiful lake, be careful, it's a nature reserve, just for the pleasure of the eyes 🤩
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Nice break point, after passing the col des fosses
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For a wide range of family activities, the Vallée Bleue Lake is an excellent choice. It's a multi-activity leisure site offering bike rentals, stand-up paddleboarding, jet skiing, mini-golf, a tourist train, inflatable games, pony rides, and an aquaparc with a heated pool and slide. La Tuille Pond is also considered family-friendly, offering a peaceful setting.
Yes, Lac d'Ambléon is a small, high-altitude lake recognized as a nature reserve in the heart of Bugey. It offers serene views and is ideal for those seeking tranquility and accessible natural beauty. Lake Genin, often called the 'Little Canada of the Haut-Bugey', is also a Sensitive Natural Area (ENS) known for its preserved, wild, and peaceful environment.
Lake Barterand offers supervised swimming during July and August. At the Plan d'Eau de la Vallée Bleue, while swimming in the Rhône itself is not permitted, you can enjoy the aquaparc with its heated pool and slide, providing a great option for water fun.
The region around Briord's lakes offers diverse outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for mountain biking, gravel biking, and cycling. For example, explore the 'White-water stop – Blue Valley loop from Briord' for MTB, or the 'View of the Saut du Rhône – Whitewater course loop from Montagnieu' for cycling. You can find more details on these and other routes in the MTB Trails around Briord, Gravel biking around Briord, and Cycling around Briord guides.
Yes, Lake Nantua, a glacial lake in the heart of Haut-Bugey, offers scenic hiking and mountain biking trails around its perimeter for various endurance levels. Lake Genin is also an ideal spot for hiking, with trails showcasing the lake, surrounding peat bogs, and panoramic views of fir trees.
The Plan d'Eau de la Vallée Bleue is a comprehensive leisure site that includes restaurants and picnic areas. Lake Nantua also provides facilities for restaurants and watersports, making it convenient for visitors looking for dining options.
Lake Barterand is unique for its supervised swimming during July and August, its surroundings of Bugey vineyards, and the sculpted rocks featuring myths of Bugey carved into the cliffs. Visitors can also explore charming winegrowing villages and enjoy wine tasting at local cellars nearby.
Visitors particularly appreciate the diverse experiences offered, from the serene views and natural reserve status of Lac d'Ambléon to the wide array of activities available at the Vallée Bleue Lake. The ease of access to many of these natural spots is also frequently highlighted.
While not a lake itself, La Tuille Pond is located in Optevoz, a village with a history of occupation since the Bronze Age. In the 19th century, it was known for limestone mining and agriculture, attracting painters seduced by its light and landscapes.
While specific public transport routes directly to each lake from Briord are not extensively detailed, the region is generally best explored by car or bicycle. Many lakes, like Lac d'Ambléon, are easily accessible by road, suggesting car travel is the most convenient option.
Yes, Lac d'Ambléon is a small, high-altitude lake located in the heart of Bugey. Lake Genin is another high-altitude lake, situated at approximately 830–850 meters, offering a tranquil atmosphere amidst forested surroundings.


Still not found your perfect lake around Briord? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.