Lac de Chalain
Largest natural lake in the Jura — turquoise waters
Lac de Chalain stretches over 3 km in a setting of limestone cliffs and forest. Its transparent waters still conceal the remains of prehistoric UNESCO-listed pile-dwelling villages. In summer, supervised beaches, kayaking, paddleboarding. In spring or autumn, hiking and silence.
What awaits you
The cliffs plunge into turquoise water. A heron crosses the horizon. Children paddle in the shallows. The Jura has its own Carribean — two hours from Paris.
At a glance
- Best season
- Summer for supervised swimming and water sports. Spring and autumn for the full lake circuit hike without crowds.
- Ideal duration
- Half-day for swimming. Full day for the full lake circuit (approx. 10 km).
- Ideal for
- Families, swimmers, kayakers, hikers, prehistoric heritage enthusiasts.
- Distance
- Approximately 25 km from Lons-le-Saunier
Why stay at Lons Séjours
About 25 km from Lons, Chalain is the ideal full-day family or leisure destination. Our Perrigny studios are perfect for combining a greenway ride in the morning with the lake in the afternoon.
View apartments →What to do
Swimming
Supervised beaches in July–August on the campsite side. Clear, shallow water on the north bank — great for children.
Kayak & paddleboard
Kayak, canoe, paddleboard and pedalo rental at the water sports centre in season. Option to paddle along the cliff faces.
Full lake circuit walk
A roughly 10 km hiking trail around the lake, accessible to all. Views of the limestone cliffs, forest and water changing colour with the light.
Prehistoric heritage
The Chalain prehistoric lake site is UNESCO-listed for its Neolithic pile-dwelling remains. Interpretation panels around the lake.
Practical info
- Getting there
- Car recommended. On-site parking (paid in summer). Arrive before 10 am on July–August weekends.
- Tip
- Outside July–August, the lake is peaceful — ideal for a hike or picnic without crowds. Cooler water but unbeatable setting.
Combine with
Combine with the Cascades du Hérisson for a full nature day, or stop at Baume-les-Messieurs on the way back to Lons.
In bad weather
The full lake circuit hike is actually very pleasant under grey skies — the forest is lush and the light soft. Swimming is less appealing. Combine with the Baume caves or La Maison de la Vache Qui Rit in Lons for a mixed programme.
Plan your stay in Lons
Book directly, no platform fees. Describe your stay and receive a response within 2 hours on weekdays.