Hiking, fishing and cycling are in the spotlight in the Jura lakes region

Backing onto the Haut-Jura Regional Nature Park, between Champagnole and Clairvaux-les-Lacs, the Jura lakes region is a green haven of peace. Its lakes, rivers, torrents and waterfalls are a real invitation to adventure, to be discovered in any season.

In the Jura lakes region, the shades of green and blue compete in daring. The rivers crisscross the heart of meadows, valleys and typical Jura forests. The twenty natural lakes which stretches from north to south, gives this region sometimes nicknamed Little Scotland a Nordic feel. And this wild territory, rich in hundreds of hectares of lakes, is conducive to relaxation, contemplation, but also discovery and outdoor sports.

Escape on the Route des Lacs

To start your discovery of the Jura lakes region, nothing like a road-trip on the Route des Lacs. The 150 kilometers of marked route of this road will allow you to admire magnificent natural sites and exceptional panoramas from the belvederes. Do not miss the belvedere of the 4 lakes. It offers a magical view of the Grandvaux, the Jura chain and Mont-Blanc. Throughout your journey, you will be delighted by discovering the gastronomy, craftsmanship and local traditions.

Explore the places on a cycle tour

Between lakes and medieval villages, the roads of the Jura lakes region are conducive to cycling discovery. Since Vouglans lake, a magnificent 34 kilometer route allows you to discover the heritage of the Petite Montagne. Departing from Champagnole, the pearl of the Jura, loop 21 takes cyclists on an escapade to discover the Jura highlands. This route is also Labeled Bike & Cheese.

Go on a mountain bike adventure

For mountain bikers, many routes are available to satisfy athletes of all levels. Around Lake Vouglans is an 82 kilometer loop classified as difficult. The Bellecin hike - Pont de la Pyle, is accessible to all with its 12 kilometers. The 23 kilometers of the 5 lakes tour will finally satisfy a public in search of effort and sublime landscapes.

Fishing in the Lake District

The clear and abundant waters of the Jura lakes region are a major asset. Fishermen meet there moreover with pleasure. The white waters in a limestone environment, rich in salmonids, are ideal for sport fishing, such as fly fishing. Category 1 rivers are suitable for brown trout fishing from the second Saturday in March. In 2nd category rivers or lakes, bleak, pike, carp, roach, whitefish, pikeperch, tench and perch are the delight of fishermen.

Hiking with family or friends

To conclude this overview of the Jura lakes region, impossible to evoke the many hiking opportunities. The 4 lakes tour, the sublime Hedgehog waterfalls, the circus of Baume-les-Messieurs… But also the Peak of the Eagle or even the belvederes of the lakes are exceptional hikes. To be explored on foot without moderation, from spring to autumn. And for the more trained, know that the Jura is now a land of trail. The first Ultra Trail in Jura was a real success in 2020.