Lakes around Menétrux-En-Joux are a prominent feature of the Jura region in France, offering diverse natural landscapes. The area is characterized by a series of lakes nestled within forests and marshy reeds, providing opportunities for outdoor activities. These lakes are often linked by hiking trails and are part of a larger natural park system. The region's geography includes limestone rocks and elevated plateaus, contributing to varied lake environments.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
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🌿 Lake Narlay: Essential Information Location: Frasnois municipality, in the Lakes Region (Jura). Altitude: 748 m. Surface area: 41 ha. Depth: Up to 40 m, making it the deepest lake in the Jura. Origin: Glacial lake, likely formed by a rockfall. Environment: Meadows, forests, peat bogs, Natura 2000 and Ramsar sites. (Copilot)
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Small, rocky stretch of beach that you can climb down to, as well as good views of Lac Le Grand Maclu.
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Lac d'Ilay, also called Lac de la Motte, is a lake in the Jura department of France, about 14 km south of Champagnole in Franche-Comté. It lies at an altitude of 774 m in the municipalities of Le Frasnois and La Chaux-du-Dombief and covers an area of approximately 0.7 km². The lake is 1.9 km long, has a maximum width of 400 m, and has a small island (Île de la Motte). Its greatest depth is 32 m.
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Lac de Narlay is a lake in the Jura department of France, about 10 km south of Champagnole in Franche-Comté. It lies at an altitude of 748 m in the municipality of Le Frasnois and covers an area of approximately 0.4 km². The lake is 950 m long and 625 m wide. Its maximum depth is 40 m.
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Lacs de Maclu are two adjacent lakes in the western part of the French Jura, in the Jura department of Franche-Comté. They are located at an elevation of 779 m in a depression in the High Jura, in the region of the Five Lakes near Le Frasnois, about 12 km south of Champagnole. The Petit Maclu, located to the northeast, has an area of 5 hectares, a length of about 500 m, and a maximum width of about 120 m. Its greatest depth is 11 m. It lies entirely within the municipal territory of Le Frasnois.
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Easy, shaded path, perfect for cooling off in hot weather.
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Easy path to walk in the shade, very welcome in case of strong heat.
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The region boasts several lakes with distinct characteristics. The Three Lakes Viewpoint offers a panorama of lakes known for their whitish rim, a natural phenomenon caused by chalk, depth, and heat. Petit Maclu Lake is part of a string of lakes connected by a stream, providing a rich habitat for various animal species within a Natura 2000 area. Lac du Val is a peaceful haven for natural swimming, surrounded by deep forests and marshy reeds.
Yes, swimming is permitted in several lakes. For instance, Lake Narlay explicitly allows swimming. Lac du Val is also known as a peaceful spot for natural swimming. Always check local regulations for specific lakes before entering the water.
Absolutely. Many lakes in the region are connected by scenic hiking trails. A path encircles Lake Narlay, passing through forests and meadows. The Lac du Val also has a path along its shore ideal for family walks, and a forest trail leading to the Belvédère de la Dame Blanche. The Lacs d'Ilay, Petit Maclu, Grand Maclu, and Narlay are often included in hiking routes from Menétrux-en-Joux, offering spectacular panoramas from viewpoints like the Pic de l'Aigle and Belvédère des Quatre Lacs.
The wetlands around lakes like Petit Maclu Lake are particularly rich in biodiversity. As part of a Natura 2000 area, you can observe various animal species and diverse plant life such as water lilies, reeds, rushes, and sedges. The tranquil setting of Lac du Val also makes it ideal for observing local wildlife.
Yes, several lakes are well-suited for families. Petit Maclu Lake and Lake Ilay are both categorized as family-friendly highlights. The path along the shore of Lac du Val is also ideal for family walks, and its relatively uncrowded nature makes it perfect for tranquil enjoyment.
Beyond hiking, the area offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous running trails, road cycling routes, and gravel biking routes around Menétrux-En-Joux that often incorporate the lakes. For example, there are running routes like the 'Pic de l'Aigle – Three Lakes Viewpoint loop' and road cycling routes such as 'View of Lac de Narlay – Chalain Lake spot loop'. You can explore more options in the Running Trails around Menétrux-En-Joux, Road Cycling Routes around Menétrux-En-Joux, and Gravel biking around Menétrux-En-Joux guides.
Visitors frequently praise the breathtaking panoramas, especially from viewpoints like the Three Lakes Viewpoint. The peaceful and authentic setting of lakes like Lac du Val, the clear waters, and the opportunity for tranquil swimming are also highly appreciated. Many enjoy the easy, shaded paths around lakes like Petit Maclu Lake, perfect for cooling off.
Yes, Lac de Chalain is the largest natural lake in the Jura. It's often referred to as a 'blue jewel' encircled by limestone rocks, and its grandeur is best appreciated from the surrounding plateaus that offer expansive panoramic views. It is also part of the Échappée Jurassienne hiking route.
Definitely. The region is rich in viewpoints. The Three Lakes Viewpoint offers a stunning panorama of three lakes. The Lacs d'Ilay, Petit Maclu, Grand Maclu, and Narlay can be admired from several breathtaking spots, including the Pic de l'Aigle and the Belvédère des Quatre Lacs. Lac de Bonlieu also has a dedicated belvedere for scenic vistas.
The Petit Maclu Lake, Grand Maclu Lake, and Lake Ilay are frequently grouped together as part of the 'plateau of the seven lakes'. They form a string of lakes connected by a small stream, creating an exceptional habitat within a Natura 2000 area. Lake Ilay, also known as Lac de la Motte, is one of the larger lakes in the Jura and features a small island.
Yes, Lac du Val is conveniently located just a few kilometers from the famous Hérisson waterfalls, whose gentle murmur can often be heard nearby. Lac de Bonlieu is another picturesque lake in the vicinity often associated with the Hérisson waterfalls, offering beautiful natural scenery.


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