Lac de Vouglans
Gorge lake — sailing, kayaking & wild nature
Lake Vouglans, formed by the Ain river dam, stretches some 30 km through a steep gorge in the southern Jura. Its deep waters shift colour with the light — emerald in the morning, cobalt at noon, slate by evening. Sailing, diving, viewpoints and wild nature: a lake on a different scale.
What awaits you
The gorge cliffs plunge into the water. You can't see the bottom. A white sail in the distance, silence. Vouglans is not your average holiday lake — it's vast, wild, almost alpine in character.
At a glance
- Best season
- Summer for water sports and swimming. Spring and autumn for viewpoints and dramatic light quality. Winter for bare gorges — a completely different atmosphere.
- Ideal duration
- Half-day for the dam viewpoint. Full day for water sports activities.
- Ideal for
- Sailing and water sports enthusiasts, active families, hikers, divers, lovers of wild landscapes.
- Distance
- Approximately 45 km from Lons-le-Saunier
Why stay at Lons Séjours
Our apartments are the right base for a day trip to Vouglans — around 45 minutes by car from Lons. Ideal for a weekend with Vouglans on day one and waterfalls or vineyards on day two.
View apartments →What to do
Vouglans dam
One of the largest dams in France, offering a striking view over the reservoir from the viewpoint. Open outdoor visit.
Water sports
Sailing, kayaking, windsurfing, paddleboarding — local centres offer activities and rentals in season. Check locally for which operators are open.
Swimming and beaches
Water access exists on some banks depending on the season. Note: the water can be cool even in summer in shaded gorge sections.
Gorge viewpoints
Along the gorge road, several viewpoints offer bird's-eye views over the lake. Belvédère de Bothey is among the most accessible.
Practical info
- Getting there
- Car essential. The lake is elongated — several access points depending on your activity. Research the best access point for your programme before setting off.
- Tip
- Some banks are steep — check designated swimming areas. Bring water and sunscreen: gorge sections can be very exposed.
Combine with
Combine with Clairvaux-les-Lacs for a full lakes day, or return through the Ain gorges for dramatic scenery.
In bad weather
The Vouglans gorges are particularly dramatic under cloud and rain — cliffs loom out of the mist. The dam viewpoint is accessible by car. In heavy rain, opt for an indoor day in Lons (Bains, La Maison de la Vache Qui Rit).
Plan your stay in Lons
Book directly, no platform fees. Describe your stay and receive a response within 2 hours on weekdays.