Clairvaux-les-Lacs & Viewpoints
Plateau lakes — Pic de l'Aigle & 360° panoramas
Clairvaux-les-Lacs is the heart of the southern Jura's lake district. Grand Lac, Petit Lac, Lac de la Motte — a succession of clear lakes in a landscape of forests and cliffs. Nearby: the Belvédère des 4 lacs and the Pic de l'Aigle open up some of the Jura's finest panoramas.
What awaits you
From the top of the Pic de l'Aigle, the lakes spread out at your feet, one after another. Blue, green, grey depending on light and season. The Jura's geography reveals itself in a single glance — silent and immense.
At a glance
- Best season
- Spring (landscape awakening, open views before full foliage) and autumn (colours, raking light). Summer for swimming at Clairvaux.
- Ideal duration
- Half-day for the viewpoints. Full day with swimming and hiking.
- Ideal for
- Hikers, families, panorama enthusiasts, photographers, cyclists.
- Distance
- Approximately 25 km from Lons-le-Saunier
Why stay at Lons Séjours
The Clairvaux area makes a great half-day or full-day trip from Lons. Our apartments are a practical base for combining lake views in the morning with waterfalls in the afternoon, or viewpoints with swimming.
View apartments →What to do
Belvédère des 4 lacs
From this viewpoint, reachable by car or on foot, several southern Jura lakes are visible in clear weather. Open views and orientation tables.
Pic de l'Aigle
One of the most spectacular viewpoints in the lake region. Panoramic views over lakes, forests and Jura plateaus. Check local access and parking availability before visiting.
Swimming at Clairvaux
Grand Lac de Clairvaux has a beach and organised swimming area in season. Calm, family-friendly waters.
Hiking from Clairvaux
Several marked trails from Clairvaux-les-Lacs — lake circuits, viewpoint ascents, and possible link routes to the Cascades du Hérisson.
Practical info
- Getting there
- Car recommended. Parking at Clairvaux-les-Lacs and at the viewpoints — check local access and seasonal availability.
- Tip
- A clear day is essential for the viewpoints. Panoramas in fog or low cloud will be disappointing. Check the weather forecast before setting off.
Combine with
Continue to the nearby Cascades du Hérisson, or head to Lac de Vouglans for a full southern Jura lakes-and-landscapes day.
In bad weather
The viewpoints are only worth visiting in clear weather. In low cloud or fog, postpone and opt for the Baume-les-Messieurs caves or an indoor programme in Lons instead. Swimming at Clairvaux is also less appealing in the rain.
Plan your stay in Lons
Book directly, no platform fees. Describe your stay and receive a response within 2 hours on weekdays.