Top 8 Lakes in Rhône
Lakes in Rhône offer diverse natural settings within the department. This region in France features various bodies of water, from artificial lakes to fishing ponds. These locations provide opportunities for outdoor activities and natural exploration. The landscape includes forests, rolling hills, and areas suitable for recreation.
Best lakes in Rhône
- The most popular lakes is Thurins Dam, a lake that offers a quiet setting for picnics. It features picnic areas and benches available around its perimeter.
- Another must-see spot is Lac du Ronzey, a barrage lake in Yzeron. This spot provides a setting for family outings and picnics, with views of the Fantasticable zip line.
- Visitors also love Lac des Sapins, an artificial lake surrounded by forests. It is known for its biological swimming pool and offers various activities like swimming, paddleboarding, and mountain biking.
- Rhône is known for artificial lakes, fishing ponds, and barrage lakes. These include spots like Lac des Sapins, Lac de la Madone, and Lac du Ronzey, offering a variety of experiences for visitors.
- The lakes in Rhône are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 60 upvotes and 6 photos.
Last updated: June 25, 2026
Lac des Sapins
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Lac du Ronzey
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Remember to raise your head! Above you, you can see the Fantasticable zip line which passes over the lake from the Crêt de la Madone.
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Thurins Dam
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Lac de la Madone
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Colombier Pond
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Plan d'Eau de la Combe Gibert
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Boulard Park
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Statue of the Virgin Mary at Lac de la Madone
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Boulard Pond
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Poules-les-Écharmeaux lake
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Popular around Rhône
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Tips from the Community
It is a must-see place for hiking in the surrounding area or having a family picnic during the sunny days.
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Lac du Ronzey is a picturesque spot ideal for a mountain bike adventure. Nestled in the lush greenery of the Monts du Lyonnais, this serene lake offers a range of trails suitable for different skill levels. As you circle the lake, you’ll have stunning views of the water, surrounded by dense forests and rolling hills. With its Maison du Lac, you can also take a peaceful break from your hike.
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Located in the south of the Rhône department, this small body of water of 1.75 hectares is located between the municipalities of Orlienas and Taluyers. It is fed by a first category river as well as by water catchments on the Saône.
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The Poule-Les Echarmeaux body of water near the “Zone Humide des Monneries”. It is maintained by the local fishing company. The meadows surrounding it are open to the public and equipped with picnic tables.
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There is a small passage which is marked as a private road but I doubt that the owner of the house who put up this sign is within the law.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some family-friendly lakes in Rhône?
Many lakes in Rhône are ideal for families. Lac des Sapins offers a biological swimming pool, sandy beaches, and an adventure course. Lac du Ronzey is perfect for picnics and strolls, with amenities for people with reduced mobility. Lac de la Madone provides picnic tables and dry toilets, making it a convenient spot for a relaxing day.
Which lakes are best for swimming and water sports?
Lac des Sapins is well-known for its biological swimming pool and offers activities like paddleboarding and sailing. For a wider range of water sports near Lyon, Lac de Miribel-Jonage (Lac des Eaux Bleues) is a vast park with excellent water quality for swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, and pedal boat rentals at its supervised beaches.
Are there good hiking or running trails near the lakes?
Yes, several lakes offer excellent trails. You can find an easy path around Lac des Sapins, suitable for hiking or mountain biking. For more options, explore the easy hikes in Rhône or running trails in Rhône, which include routes like the 'Tour of Lac des Sapins'.
Which lakes are suitable for fishing?
Lac de la Madone is primarily a fishing pond, ideal for family outings focused on fishing. The body of water at Poules-les-Écharmeaux is also maintained by a local fishing company and is suitable for fishing, with surrounding meadows equipped with picnic tables.
What natural features can I expect to see around the lakes?
The lakes in Rhône are often surrounded by diverse natural settings. Lac des Sapins is aptly named for the dense forests that surround it. Lac du Ronzey is nestled in the lush greenery of the Monts du Lyonnais, offering views of dense forests and rolling hills. Many spots provide scenic viewpoints and opportunities to observe local flora and fauna.
Are there accessible lakes for visitors with reduced mobility?
Lac du Ronzey has facilities designed for people with reduced mobility, making it a welcoming spot for all visitors. Additionally, Lac des Sapins features an easy, accessible path around the lake.
What amenities are available at the lakes?
Amenities vary by lake. Lac des Sapins offers restaurants, a campsite, and a grocery store nearby, along with picnic areas. Lac du Ronzey provides picnic areas and a Maison du Lac. Lac de la Madone has dry toilets and picnic tables. Lac de Miribel-Jonage includes supervised beaches, rentals, and even a golf course.
Can I go mountain biking near the lakes?
Yes, mountain biking is a popular activity. Lac des Sapins is a starting point for multiple marked mountain bike trails. You can also find gravel biking routes in the region, such as those listed in the Gravel biking in Rhône guide.
What is the best time to visit the lakes in Rhône?
The lakes are enjoyable throughout the year, but the best time depends on your preferred activities. Summer is ideal for swimming and water sports, especially at Lac des Sapins and Lac de Miribel-Jonage. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling, with beautiful foliage around lakes like Lac du Ronzey. Even in winter, some trails offer serene walks.
Are there any unique features or landmarks at the lakes?
Lac des Sapins is notable for hosting Europe's largest biological swimming pool. At Lac du Ronzey, you can observe the Fantasticable zip line passing over the lake from the Crêt de la Madone. Lac de la Madone features 630 floating photovoltaic panels installed on its surface.
How can I get to the lakes, and is parking available?
Access and parking vary by location. Lac de Miribel-Jonage, being close to Lyon, is accessible by public transport. For lakes like Lac des Sapins, parking is generally available, though it may be subject to fees during peak season. Many smaller lakes, such as Thurins Dam, offer quiet settings with picnic areas and benches, often with nearby parking.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes in Rhône?
Visitors appreciate the diverse natural settings and recreational opportunities. Many enjoy the quiet atmosphere for picnics and strolls, as highlighted by those visiting Thurins Dam. The family-friendly environments, like at Lac du Ronzey, and the active options at Lac des Sapins, are frequently praised.
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