Top 7 Lakes around Clairegoutte
Best lakes around Clairegoutte are found within the unique landscape of the "Plateau des 1000 Étangs" in the Haute-Saône department of France. This region is characterized by numerous ponds and wild natural beauty, often referred to as "Little French Finland." The area offers diverse recreational opportunities and picturesque scenery, with a blend of dense forests, lush meadows, and shimmering ponds. It is recognized for its ecological interest and provides an idyllic setting for nature exploration.
Best lakes around Clairegoutte
- The most popular lakes is Réchal Pond, a lake that serves as a pleasant spot for a short break and a crossroads for many paths. It offers picnic benches and shade under trees.
- Another must-see spot is Viewpoint overlooking Lake Malsaucy, a viewpoint offering appreciation of the lake's flora and fauna. This location is classified as an LPO refuge, providing opportunities for bird observations.
- Visitors also love Champagney Dam, a man-made monument forming a 13 million m³ reservoir. The dam is 41 meters high and 785 meters long, supporting water sports organized by local clubs.
- Clairegoutte is known for its natural ponds, large reservoirs, and recreational lakes. The region offers a variety of water bodies for different activities and scenic enjoyment.
- The lakes around Clairegoutte are appreciated by the komoot community, with 10 upvotes and 3 photos contributing to the guide.
Last updated: May 25, 2026
Ballastières Beach
Highlight • Beach
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Viewpoint overlooking Lake Malsaucy
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Champagney Dam
Highlight • Monument
The dam is 41 meters high and 32 meters thick at the base. It has a length of 785 meters.
We fill the dam in winter and spring (it can serve as an outlet for the floods of the Rahin), and we try to maintain the level at the highest level during the summer, for water sports: the practice of sailing, board or boat is organized by local clubs. Swimming is prohibited on the entire body of water.
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Réchal Pond
Highlight • Lake
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Greenway from Base de la Saline
Highlight • Cycleway
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Tips from the Community
watch out for mosquitoes!!!
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Good for cooling off, but little shade.
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A good place for a break in the shade of the trees. There are picnic benches.
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The notice translates as follows: The Rahin and Chérimont Community, owner of the Ballastières Open Air Pool site, is therefore obliged to enforce the decree of May 18, 1993, prohibiting swimming in all bodies of water and rivers in the municipality of Champagney. Due to the lack of a lifeguard (no applicant for the position), the supervised pool cannot be opened for the period from July 1 to August 31, 2024.
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Unfortunately, according to the notice board, swimming is prohibited at this beautifully landscaped beach. Apparently, the municipality can't find anyone willing to supervise it. In other words, a lifeguard is urgently needed.
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The greenway, from the Base de la Saline, winds between the ponds of the Pays de Lure to the Coast!
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The Champagney basin (also known as the Bois de Champagney reservoir1) is a 13 million m3 reservoir, formed by a dam. The dam is 41 meters high and 32 meters thick at the base. It has a length of 785 meters. We fill the dam in winter and spring (it can serve as an outlet for the floods of the Rahin), and we try to maintain the level at the highest level during the summer, for water sports: the practice of sailing, board or boat is organized by local clubs. Swimming is prohibited on the entire body of water.
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While running around this lake, you can enjoy the trail around it, but this viewpoint is a great place to take a break and really appreciate the lake and its flora and fauna.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main lakes and ponds to explore around Clairegoutte?
The region around Clairegoutte, part of the "Plateau des 1000 Étangs," offers several notable water bodies. Key spots include Réchal Pond, a pleasant spot for a break, and Lac du Malsaucy, known for its recreational activities and a viewpoint for bird observations. The historic Champagney Dam also forms a significant reservoir.
Are there family-friendly lakes or beaches near Clairegoutte?
Yes, Lac du Malsaucy is a vibrant recreational area with a supervised public beach during summer, offering various water sports suitable for families. Additionally, Ballastières Beach is a beautifully landscaped spot for relaxation, though swimming is currently prohibited due to a lack of lifeguard supervision.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near the lakes around Clairegoutte?
The lakes and the surrounding "Plateau des 1000 Étangs" offer diverse activities. At Lac du Malsaucy, you can enjoy sailing, kayaking, windsurfing, hiking, and mountain biking. The Barrage de Champagney is popular for sailing, windsurfing, and fishing. The wider region is excellent for hiking, running, and cycling. You can find various routes, including running trails, road cycling routes, and MTB trails.
Can I swim in the lakes near Clairegoutte?
Swimming is permitted and supervised at Lac du Malsaucy's public beach during the summer months (early June to early September). However, swimming is prohibited at the Barrage de Champagney and currently at Ballastières Beach due to a lack of lifeguard supervision.
What is the "Plateau des 1000 Étangs" and why is it significant?
The "Plateau des 1000 Étangs" (Thousand Ponds Plateau) is a unique landscape near Clairegoutte, often called "Little French Finland." It covers over 220 km² and is characterized by countless ponds formed by glacial retreat and later used for fish farming. It's significant for its wild natural beauty, rich biodiversity, and ecological interest, offering an idyllic setting for nature lovers and hikers.
Are there good hiking opportunities around the lakes?
Absolutely. The "Plateau des 1000 Étangs" features a network of signposted footpaths, perfect for discovering its exceptional biodiversity and unique landscapes. You can also find trails around Lac du Malsaucy. For specific routes, explore the running trails around Clairegoutte, many of which pass by or near these water bodies.
What kind of wildlife can I observe near the lakes?
The region, particularly Lac du Malsaucy, is rich in biodiversity. Lac du Malsaucy has "Refuge LPO" status for bird protection, making it an excellent spot for birdwatching from designated observatories. The wetlands of the "Plateau des 1000 Étangs" are home to remarkable and sometimes endangered species, offering opportunities for nature observation.
Is there a historical site among the lakes?
Yes, the Champagney Dam is a significant historical site. While now a leisure base, its primary purpose was to supply the Canal du Rhône au Rhin. The dam itself is an impressive structure, 41 meters high and 785 meters long, with a history tied to regional water management.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around Clairegoutte?
The summer months (early June to early September) are ideal for enjoying supervised swimming and water sports at Lac du Malsaucy. However, the "Plateau des 1000 Étangs" offers beautiful scenery for hiking and nature observation throughout spring, summer, and autumn, with each season bringing its own charm to the landscape of ponds and forests.
Are there any facilities like picnic areas or cafes near the lakes?
Yes, Réchal Pond offers picnic benches and shade under trees, making it a pleasant spot for a break. Lac du Malsaucy, as a major recreational area, also provides amenities for visitors. While specific cafes directly on the lake shores are not detailed, nearby towns and villages will offer dining options.
Are there lakes further afield in the Franche-Comté region worth visiting?
If you're willing to venture a bit further into the wider Franche-Comté region, popular lakes like Lac de Saint-Point and Lac de Chalain in the Jura Mountains offer extensive amenities for swimming, supervised beaches, and a wide range of water sports.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the lakes around Clairegoutte?
Visitors appreciate the tranquil beauty and diverse activities. The viewpoint overlooking Lake Malsaucy is popular for appreciating flora and fauna, and Réchal Pond is valued as a pleasant spot for a short break with picnic facilities. The overall appeal lies in the unique, wild natural beauty of the "Plateau des 1000 Étangs" and the opportunities for outdoor recreation.
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