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France
Auvergne Rhône Alpes
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Chancia

Top 4 Lakes around Chancia

Best lakes around Chancia are found in the Jura department of Bourgogne-Franche-Comté in eastern France. Chancia is directly associated with the man-made Lac de Coiselet, an artificial reservoir created by a dam on the Ain River. The broader Jura region is known for its numerous lakes, many of which were formed from melted glaciers over 10,000 years ago. This geographical region offers diverse aquatic landscapes and opportunities for exploration.

Best lakes around Chancia

  • The most popular lakes is View of Lac de Vouglans, a viewpoint that offers a beautiful perspective of the lake. This spot provides a clear view of Lac de Vouglans, which is crossed by the Ain river, and is accessible from a parking lot.
  • Another must-see spot is Vouglans Dam, a lake highlight. Built in 1968, this dam is the source of one of France's largest water reservoirs, notable for its natural emerald-colored water.
  • Visitors also love Along Lake Coiselet, a quiet road that runs along the shore of Lac de Coiselet. This lake is a reservoir on the Ain river, situated on the border between the Ain and Jura departments.
  • Chancia is known for its artificial reservoirs and natural glacial lakes. The region offers a variety of lakes to see and explore, ranging from large artificial bodies of water to smaller natural formations.
  • The lakes around Chancia are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 90 upvotes and 21 photos shared across various highlights.

Last updated: May 8, 2026

Vouglans Dam

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Built in 1968, the Vouglans dam is the source of the 3rd largest water reservoir in France in terms of its volumetric capacity after the Serre-Ponçon and Sainte-Croix lakes. The emerald color of the lake water is of natural origin. It would be due to the presence of calcite grains attaching to the phytoplankton.

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View of Lac de Vouglans

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departure from Moirans towards Lect, short stop at the belvedere and view of the dam, very beautiful walk, magnificent views.

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Along Lake Coiselet

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A quiet road that runs along the shore of Lac de Coiselet. It is on the border between the departments of Ain and Jura.

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Chancia Viewpoint

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So many things to see from here! A beautiful view of Lake Coiselet and the Bienne valley. From here, you can also see the village of Chancia and the peak of Oliferne.

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270-Degree View of Lake Vouglans

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If the lake of Vouglans has many belvederes, the view is sometimes just as beautiful at the level of the body of water. Accessible by a small technical path, this place offers a magnificent 270-degree panorama of the lake.

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Tips from the Community

Yann
April 28, 2025, Le long du lac de Coiselet

Bike tour of the lake

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Parking lot on the road with a beautiful view of the Lac de Vouglans, crossed by the Ain.

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Reservoir in the Jura Park with an interesting construction.

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Good view from the parking lot.

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departure from Moirans towards Lect, short stop at the belvedere and view of the dam, very beautiful walk, magnificent views.

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If the lake of Vouglans has many belvederes, the view is sometimes just as beautiful at the level of the body of water. Accessible by a small technical path, this place offers a magnificent 270-degree panorama of the lake.

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Commissioned in 1968, the Vouglans dam retains the waters of the Ain to form the eponymous artificial lake, the third largest in France. The scope of the work impresses.

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So many things to see from here! A beautiful view of Lake Coiselet and the Bienne valley. From here, you can also see the village of Chancia and the peak of Oliferne.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What lakes are located directly around Chancia?

Chancia is directly associated with the man-made Lac de Coiselet, an artificial reservoir on the Ain River. You can find a quiet road running Along Lake Coiselet, offering beautiful scenery. From the Chancia Viewpoint, you can enjoy panoramic views of Lac de Coiselet and the Bienne valley.

What are the most popular lakes in the broader Jura region?

Beyond Lac de Coiselet, the Jura region boasts several impressive lakes. Vouglans Lake is one of the largest artificial lakes in France, known for its emerald-green water. Lac de Chalain is the largest natural lake in the Jura department, famous for its turquoise-blue water and prehistoric pile-dwelling settlements. Clairvaux Lake is a family favorite with a unique three-level diving platform.

Are there family-friendly activities at the lakes near Chancia?

Yes, several lakes offer family-friendly activities. Lac de Coiselet permits swimming at its beach in Chancia. Clairvaux Lake is a popular family destination with a three-level diving platform, swimming, pedal boats, kayaks, and play areas. Vouglans Lake also features three beaches ideal for freshwater swimming, and you can rent electric boats. The View of Lac de Vouglans is also noted as family-friendly.

What kind of outdoor activities can I do near these lakes?

The lakes around Chancia and in the broader Jura region offer a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and running on numerous trails. For example, there are many hiking trails around Chancia, including easy loops like the 'Plage de Chancia loop'. Water sports like boating, water skiing, sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding are popular on lakes such as Vouglans, Chalain, and Saint-Point.

Are there hiking trails around Lac de Coiselet?

Yes, there is an easy 9km loop trail around Lac de Coiselet that leads to the Pic d'Oliferne (807m). This trail offers incredible panoramic views, including the ruins of an 18th-century castle. You can also find a quiet road running Along Lake Coiselet, perfect for a scenic stroll.

What unique natural features can I expect to see at these lakes?

The lakes in the Jura region are known for their stunning natural beauty. Lac de Coiselet is characterized by amazing cliffs. Vouglans Lake is famous for its natural emerald-green water, while Lac de Chalain boasts beautiful turquoise-blue water and 60-80 meter high limestone cliffs. Lac des Rousses is noted for its pure, natural water and the typical fauna and flora of Jura peat bogs.

Can I swim in the lakes around Chancia?

Yes, swimming is permitted at the beach of Chancia Lake (Lac de Coiselet), though it is unsupervised. Vouglans Lake and Lac de Chalain both have multiple lifeguarded beaches. Saint-Point Lake also offers equipped and lifeguarded beaches. Swimming is tolerated but unsupervised at Abbaye Lake.

Are there any historical or cultural sites near the lakes?

Yes, Lac de Chalain is notable for its pre-historic pile-dwelling settlements found at its western end, which are classified as French historical monuments and are on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Additionally, Abbaye Lake is charming with its 12th-century abbey, adding a historical touch to the scenic landscape.

What is the best time to visit the lakes in the Jura region?

The lakes are beautiful year-round, but the best time depends on your preferred activities. Summer is ideal for swimming and water sports. In winter, Saint-Point Lake offers unique opportunities for skiing and ice skating, providing a 'beach and mountain' atmosphere even in colder months.

Are there options for mountain biking near the lakes?

Absolutely. The region offers various MTB trails around Chancia. You can find routes like the 'Bourlaches Viewpoint – Lake Vouglans Viewpoint loop' or the 'Lac de Coiselet – Along Lake Coiselet loop', catering to different difficulty levels from moderate to difficult.

What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Chancia?

Visitors frequently highlight the magnificent views and the natural beauty of the area. The emerald color of Vouglans Lake's water and the stunning cliffs around Lac de Coiselet are often praised. The quiet roads along the lakeshores and the panoramic viewpoints, such as the View of Lac de Vouglans, are also highly appreciated by the komoot community.

Which lakes are less crowded for a more tranquil experience?

While popular lakes can attract crowds, you might find more tranquility at Lac de Coiselet, especially along the quiet road that runs along its shore. Remoray Lake, protected by a National Nature Reserve, also offers a serene environment, emphasizing its ecological importance.

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