Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Routes
Places to see
Lakes
France
Bourgogne-Franche-Comté
Lons-Le-Saunier

Cogna

Top 17 Lakes around Cogna

Best lakes around Cogna are found in the Jura department of France, offering a diverse natural landscape characterized by lakes and forests. This region provides opportunities for outdoor activities amidst its varied terrain. The area features several natural monuments and viewpoints, making it suitable for those seeking scenic experiences. Visitors can explore a network of trails and discover the unique geological formations of the Jura.

Best lakes around Cogna

  • The most popular lakes is Chalain Lake Viewpoint, a viewpoint…

Last updated: June 24, 2026

Lake Ilay

Highlight • Lake

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 …

Translated by Google •

Tip by

See hikes here

Send to Phone

Save

Grand Maclu Lake

Highlight • Lake

Small, rocky stretch of beach that you can climb down to, as well as good views of Lac Le Grand Maclu.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Sign up now to discover places like this

Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.

Sign up for free

Lac de la Motte

Highlight • Lake

It is a natural lake of glacial origin with a wild appearance. This lake will surprise you with its turquoise shores on a clear day and its cliffs in the …

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Chalain Lake Viewpoint

Highlight • Viewpoint

On the heights of the lake, the so-called belvedere of the castle offers you a wonderful view of Lake Chalain and the forests that surround it.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Lake Bonlieu

Highlight • Lake

Very nice lake, unfortunately swimming is prohibited here

Tip by

Save

Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Cogna.

Sign up for free

Already have an account?

Start today with a free account

Your next adventure awaits.

Login or Signup

Popular around Cogna

Road Cycling Routes around Cogna

Hiking around Cogna

Cycling around Cogna

MTB Trails around Cogna

Running Trails around Cogna

Gravel biking around Cogna

Mountain Hikes around Cogna

Tips from the Community

Kristian
September 1, 2025, Lac du Grand Maclu

Small, rocky stretch of beach that you can climb down to, as well as good views of Lac Le Grand Maclu.

Translated by Google

5

0

Kristian
August 19, 2025, Lac d'Ilay

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.

Translated by Google

5

0

Beautiful view of the lake, and afterward, we had a lovely swim in the lake. Nice bar with delicious ice cream.

Translated by Google

0

0

Yann
July 12, 2025, Lac du Grand Maclu

Tour of the lake possible by trail

Translated by Google

0

0

Easy path to walk in the shade, very welcome in case of strong heat.

Translated by Google

0

0

Rosradler
February 9, 2025, Lac de la Motte

On most maps it is called "Lac d’Ilay". The other name probably comes from the small island "Île de la Motte" which is located in the lake.

Translated by Google

1

0

Very nice on the way back along the south of the lake

Translated by Google

1

0

MikE
July 21, 2024, Lac d'Ilay

The tour of the lakes is not of much interest, mainly being wide paths, without much relief, and with no view worthy of the name, including on the lakes (which we see very little, except on the eastern part, which is a shame). The western part is even difficult (we follow the road for 2km...). In short, a walk to forget, except perhaps for a running outing, or a detour via the Eagle peak.

Translated by Google

0

1

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of the most popular lakes to visit around Cogna?

The Cogna region, located in the Jura department of France, offers several beautiful lakes. Among the most popular are Chalain Lake Viewpoint, which provides a wide perspective of Lake Chalain, and Lake Ilay, one of the larger lakes in the Jura. Visitors also enjoy Grand Maclu Lake, known for its small, rocky beach.

Are there family-friendly lakes in the Cogna region?

Yes, several lakes around Cogna are considered family-friendly. Lake Ilay is suitable for an easy walk around its perimeter, making it great for families. Lake Bonlieu is also noted as family-friendly, offering beautiful scenery for walks, though swimming is prohibited there. The Pyle Bridge, spanning Lake Vouglans, offers safe pedestrian access and spectacular views for all ages.

Can I go swimming in the lakes around Cogna?

While many lakes are beautiful for viewing and walking, swimming regulations vary. For example, swimming is prohibited in Lake Bonlieu due to strong currents from underground rivers. Always check local signage or official sources for current swimming rules at each specific lake.

What kind of views can I expect at the lakes near Cogna?

The lakes around Cogna offer diverse and impressive views. From the Chalain Lake Viewpoint, you can see Lake Chalain and its surrounding forests from above. Grand Maclu Lake provides good views, especially from its small beach. The Pyle Bridge over Lake Vouglans offers a clear, spectacular panorama of the lake and its surroundings.

Are there easy walking trails around the lakes in Cogna?

Yes, there are several easy walking opportunities. Lake Ilay is known for an easy walk around its perimeter. The area around Grand Maclu Lake also features nice and easy walks. Many trails are wide paths, suitable for leisurely strolls.

What outdoor activities can I do near the lakes in Cogna?

Beyond walking, the region around Cogna's lakes is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous cycling routes, including road cycling, mountain biking, and touring bicycle options. For example, there are routes like the "View of Lac de Vouglans – Vouglans Dam loop" for road cycling, or the "Between the 2 lakes – SCIE Viewpoint loop" for mountain biking. You can explore more options on the Road Cycling Routes around Cogna, MTB Trails around Cogna, and Cycling around Cogna guide pages.

Are there any notable natural monuments among the lakes?

Yes, Lake Ilay is designated as a natural monument. It is one of the larger lakes in the Jura, situated at an altitude of 774 meters, and features a small island called Île de la Motte. Grand Maclu Lake is also recognized as a natural monument.

Is it possible to find lakes with beaches in the Cogna area?

Yes, Grand Maclu Lake features a small, rocky stretch of beach that visitors can access. This spot offers good views and a place to relax by the water.

What is the Pyle Bridge and what does it offer visitors?

The Pyle Bridge is a monumental structure, 385 meters long and 65 meters high, spanning Lake Vouglans. It connects the towns of Maisod and Orgelet and is equipped with two sidewalks, allowing pedestrians to cross safely. It offers a spectacular panorama over the lake, making it a popular viewpoint.

When is the best time to visit the lakes around Cogna?

The lakes around Cogna are generally best visited during the warmer months, from spring to autumn, when the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities like walking, cycling, and enjoying the viewpoints. During these seasons, the natural landscapes are vibrant, and access to trails and viewpoints is typically optimal.

What do visitors particularly enjoy about the lakes around Cogna?

Visitors frequently praise the beautiful scenery and the opportunities for easy walks. The clear views from spots like the Chalain Lake Viewpoint and the Pyle Bridge are highly appreciated. The natural beauty and the peaceful atmosphere of lakes like Lake Bonlieu also receive positive feedback, despite swimming restrictions.

Can I find viewpoints that offer panoramic perspectives of the lakes?

Absolutely. The Chalain Lake Viewpoint is specifically designed to offer a wonderful, wide perspective of Lake Chalain and its surrounding forests. Additionally, the Pyle Bridge provides a spectacular, clear panorama over Lake Vouglans, making it an excellent spot for expansive views.

Most popular routes around Cogna

Road Cycling Routes around Cogna

Most popular attractions around Cogna

Places to see

Store rating

Get inspired with the komoot mobile app

With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

or

Join komoot Now

Store rating

Explore more

Still not found your perfect lake around Cogna? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.

SongesonLe FrasnoisUxellesCharcierMenétrux-En-JouxSafflozMarignyPillemoineLoulleSyamDoucierLe VaudiouxFontenuChaux-Des-CrotenayMont-Sur-MonnetChâtelneufChevrotaineEntre-Deux-MontsOrgeletFoncine-Le-BasClairvaux-Les-LacsVertambozLa FrasnéePont-De-PoitteCharézierSouciaThoiriaLa Tour-Du-MeixBarésia-Sur-L'AinHautecourMesnoisMéronaOnozPlaisiaLargillay-MarsonnaySarrognaCernonDompierre-Sur-MontLégnaMarnéziaÉcrilleBoissiaSavignaArinthodPrésillyChambériaFétignyMignovillardCransLes Planches-En-MontagneFoncine-Le-HautBlyePatornayChampagnoleCizeNeySirodLes ChalesmesBourg-De-SirodPoids-De-FioleNognaMoutonneChavériaAlièzeChemillaPublyVergesVevyChâtillonSaint-MaurLavans-Sur-ValouseCondesVesclesBeffiaValfin-Sur-ValouseDramelayCéziaChissériaSaint-HymetièreBief-Du-FourgCerniébaudReithouse

Nearby adventure guides

Things to Do around Uxelles

background

Get ready to conquer new peaks

Sign up for Free

Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy