Top 7 Lakes around Les Clées

Around Les Clées, you'll discover a mix of artificial lakes, natural reserves with ponds, and small idyllic lakes. These include Lake Morond, an artificial lake used as a water reserve, and Barrage du Day, a man-made monument. You can also explore the Creux de Terre Nature Reserve, which features several ponds ideal for nature observation.

In the broader Vaud Canton, you'll find magnificent lakes such as Lac de Joux, known for its clear waters and extensive outdoor activities; Lac Léman (Lake Geneva), one of Europe's largest lakes with vibrant cities and cultural sites; and Lac de Neuchâtel, the largest lake entirely within Swiss borders, offering a peaceful natural escape.

The region offers a wide array of activities. At Lac de Joux, you can enjoy water sports like windsurfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking in summer, or ice-skating and cross-country skiing in winter. For cycling, mountain biking, and gravel biking, you can find numerous routes in the area, such as those listed in the Cycling around Les Clées, MTB Trails around Les Clées, and Gravel biking around Les Clées guides.

Yes, the area is excellent for nature enthusiasts. The Creux de Terre Nature Reserve is composed of several ponds, perfect for birdwatching and observing diverse flora and fauna. Barrage du Day is also a good spot for birdwatching, particularly for falcons. Lac de Neuchâtel's south shore features the 'La Grande Caricaie' marshland, a significant bird paradise.

While some local lakes like Lake Morond and Lac de la Jougnenaz are not recommended for swimming, Lac de Joux is ideal for it in summer, with water temperatures reaching 18 to 24 degrees Celsius. Lac Léman and Lac de Neuchâtel also offer various swimming spots and beaches.

Many lakes in the region are family-friendly. Lac Léman offers a wide range of activities suitable for families, including cruises and exploring lakeside towns. Lac de Joux is also popular for families with its water sports and easy circular hike. Locally, the Creux de Terre Nature Reserve provides walking trails and information panels, making it an educational and enjoyable outing for families.

The best time to visit depends on your preferred activities. Summer (June to August) is ideal for swimming and water sports at Lac de Joux, Lac Léman, and Lac de Neuchâtel. Winter (December to February) transforms Lac de Joux into a large ice-skating rink when it freezes over, also offering cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Spring and autumn are excellent for hiking and enjoying the natural beauty with milder temperatures.

Yes, there are numerous trails. Lac de Joux features a popular 23-kilometer circular hike. You can also walk along the artificial lake at Barrage du Day. For more extensive options, explore the Cycling around Les Clées guide, which includes routes like the 'Lac de Joux – Vallorbe–Le Pont Forest Path loop'.

Yes, there are several pleasant spots for picnics. The Picnic spot highlight near Orny offers a renovated area by a small pond. Many lakeside towns around Lac Léman and Lac de Neuchâtel also provide designated picnic areas and green spaces.

Lac Léman is surrounded by rich history and culture, with cities like Geneva, Lausanne (home to the Olympic Museum), and Montreux. You can also visit the medieval town of Yvoire or the Salt Mines of Bex. Lac de Neuchâtel's north shore at La Tène is famous for prehistoric Iron Age finds, and its lakeside towns like Neuchâtel and Grandson offer historical charm.

Beyond the lakes, the region boasts unique natural features. The Creux de Terre Nature Reserve is an impressive karst sinkhole with rich biodiversity. Lac de Joux and Lac Brenet are unique because they have no surface water run-off, with water seeping into the calcareous subsoil. The Gorges du Pont du Diable near Lac Léman offer a breathtaking walk through a chasm.