4.5
(4357)
32,929
hikers
198
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Lac de Bonlieu are set within a glacial lake region at 791 meters altitude, characterized by deep, clear waters and surrounding forests. The landscape features dramatic cliffs, varied flora including peat bogs, and offers a tranquil escape. The area is highly protected, encompassing diverse natural environments like forests and prairies, providing a rich setting for outdoor activities.
Last updated: October 4, 2026
7
hikers
3.26km
00:51
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(7)
25
hikers
7.18km
01:57
100m
100m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

14
hikers
2.54km
00:41
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
(7)
106
hikers
7.14km
01:53
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
52
hikers
1.16km
00:22
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The smaller of the two Maclu Lakes, with an easy hiking trail along its shore.
5
0
A gravel, easy-to-walk hiking trail runs along the lakeshore, offering repeated, beautiful views of Lac Le Grand Maclu.
5
0
Small, rocky stretch of beach that you can climb down to, as well as good views of Lac Le Grand Maclu.
5
0
Water access with beautiful views of Lac Le Grand Maclu.
4
0
Beautiful view through a clearing onto Lac Le Grand Maclu.
5
1
The Lac d’Ilay, also called Lac de la Motte, is a lake in the French Jura, in the Jura department, about 14 km south of Champagnole in Franche-Comté. It lies at 774 m on the territory of the municipalities of Le Frasnois and La Chaux-du-Dombief and covers an area of around 0.7 km². The lake is 1.9 km long, a maximum of 400 m wide and has a small island (Île de la Motte). Its greatest depth is 32 m.
5
0
There are 56 easy hiking trails around Lac de Bonlieu, offering a variety of options for all skill levels. In total, the region features nearly 200 hiking routes.
Easy hikes around Lac de Bonlieu offer stunning natural beauty, characterized by the deep, clear waters of the glacial lake, framed by impressive cliffs and dense forests. You'll encounter diverse environments, including peat bogs with varied flora, prairies, and panoramic viewpoints. The landscape often evokes comparisons to Canadian scenery.
Yes, many easy routes around Lac de Bonlieu are circular. For example, the Lake Bonlieu – Lac de Bonlieu loop is an easy 6.4 km path offering views of the lake and surrounding forests. Another option is the Lake Bonlieu loop from Bonlieu, a 2.5 km trail through sub-forests and along the lake.
The region is rich in natural features. You can find panoramic views of the lake and surrounding forests from belvederes like the Belvédère de la Ronde. The lake itself is a glacial marvel, and its western and southern shores feature unique peat bogs. The area is also close to the source of the Hérisson River, which feeds the famous Cascades du Hérisson.
Many trails around Lac de Bonlieu are dog-friendly, but it's essential to keep your dog on a leash to protect the highly diverse local fauna, which includes lynx and peregrine falcons. Swimming for dogs, like for humans, is strictly prohibited in Lac de Bonlieu to preserve its ecological balance.
Absolutely. The easy hiking trails around Lac de Bonlieu are generally well-suited for families. The Lake Bonlieu – Lake Bonlieu, France loop, at 3.3 km, is a popular choice that takes about an hour and allows for close observation of the lacustrine flora, making it engaging for children.
The easy trails in Lac de Bonlieu are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 3,400 reviews. Hikers often praise the tranquil atmosphere, the stunning views of the glacial lake, and the well-maintained paths that allow for a peaceful escape into nature.
While Lac de Bonlieu is one of the sources of the Hérisson River, a direct easy walk to the main Cascades du Hérisson from the lake might be longer or involve more varied terrain than a typical 'easy' designation. It's generally recommended to access the waterfalls from dedicated starting points for a more straightforward experience, though the area offers many interconnected trails.
Yes, the Lac de Bonlieu area is part of the 'valley of the four lakes' and the 'Route des Lacs Jurassiens'. An easy hike like the Grand Maclu Lake – Little Maclu Lake loop, starting from La Chaux-du-Dombief, offers views of other glacial lakes in the vicinity, providing a broader perspective of the region's unique landscape.
The region is beautiful year-round. In summer, the vibrant green forests provide shade. Autumn brings dramatic colors of ochre and orange, making it a picturesque time for hiking. Even in winter, the landscape transforms into a pristine white, offering a serene experience, though some paths might require appropriate footwear.
Yes, parking is generally available near popular trailheads around Lac de Bonlieu. Specific parking information can often be found on individual route descriptions on komoot, or by checking local tourism resources like Terre d'Émeraude Tourisme for detailed access points.
While the Jura region is accessible, public transport options directly to Lac de Bonlieu might be limited. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for the Bonlieu commune or nearby towns. For detailed and up-to-date information on public transport, consulting regional transport authorities or local tourism offices is recommended.


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