Lac De Vouglans

Stretching 35 kilometres through the Jura mountains, Lac De Vouglans is a stunning turquoise reservoir that feels more Mediterranean than inland France. Created by a hydroelectric dam on the Ain River, this elongated lake is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts and nature lovers, with forested shores, limestone cliffs, and hidden coves. The lake's clean, warm waters and reliable breezes make it a top destination for sailing, windsurfing, and kayaking, while hiking and cycling trails weave through the surrounding countryside. Despite its popularity, the lake retains a wild, uncrowded feel, especially outside July and August.

Highlights & What to See

• Water Sports Hub at Plage de Bellecin – The main beach offers sailing schools, pedal boats, and a long sandy shore perfect for swimming. Rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard to explore the quieter inlets.
• Via Ferrata du Lac – For thrill-seekers, a via ferrata route clings to the cliffs above the lake, offering vertiginous views and a chance to traverse the rock face with safety cables.
• Boat Tour to the Dam – Take a guided boat trip to the imposing Barrage de Vouglans, a 130-metre-high dam that created the lake. The tour explains the engineering and history, and you'll see the dramatic gorge below.
• Hike the Sentier des Pêcheurs – This scenic trail follows the shoreline from the dam to the village of Pont-de-Poitte, passing through woodland and offering panoramic viewpoints.
• Château de Présilly – A short drive from the lake, this 13th-century castle perches on a hilltop with sweeping views of the Jura valleys. The ruins are free to explore and make a great picnic spot.

Suggested Time to Spend

Two to three days is ideal to enjoy the lake's main attractions without rushing. Spend the first day on the water – sailing, swimming, or kayaking – and the second exploring the hiking trails and the dam. If you have a third day, consider a via ferrata session or a day trip to nearby villages. For a self-drive itinerary, Lac De Vouglans works well as a two-night stop between the Jura Mountains and the Rhône-Alpes region.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Baume-les-Messieurs – A spectacular village nestled in a cirque of cliffs, with an abbey and waterfall. About 30 minutes' drive.
• Lons-le-Saunier – The bustling capital of the Jura, known for its thermal baths, fine-dining restaurants, and the birthplace of Rouget de Lisle. 20 minutes away.
• Château-Chalon – A medieval hilltop village famous for its yellow wine (vin jaune). A 40-minute drive through vineyards.
• Les Cascades du Hérisson – A series of spectacular waterfalls in a forested gorge, perfect for a day hike. About an hour's drive.
• Clairvaux-les-Lacs – Another pretty lake town with a sandy beach and watersports, ideal for a quieter alternative. 15 minutes south.

Please check official sources for current details.