Jura Mountains: 3 ideas for spring activities!

Enjoy the peace and quiet around the lakes, which are less busy than in summer

The Jura mountains are full of lakes, scattered throughout the Ain, Doubs and Jura regions. As well as being numerous, they are also highly varied, offering the curious an ever-changing walk that’s sure to take your breath away.

Why is this a must? Well, because the lakes in the Jura Mountains are never too far away, too high or too difficult to access, so everyone can enjoy them. Victims of their own success, they are sometimes very busy during the summer season, so between March and June is the ideal time to set off on an adventure!

A few examples of the Jura Mountains’ must-see lakes

Jura

Wild landscapes at Lac de Lamoura

Let’s start with the highest lake in the Jura, Lac de Lamoura. Located in the Regional Nature Park, this unspoilt spot offers wild panoramas and crystal-clear water.

In spring, it’s the perfect time to take a walk around the lake, which is easily accessible and takes around 1.7km and 1 hour to complete. Perfect for families with children!

Ain

An air of Canada at Lac Genin

Surrounded by majestic trees, Lac de Genin is a trip in itself. While you can go there just to contemplate it, there are walks around it for different levels. You can also take advantage of a tour guide, a treasure hunt (ideal for the little ones), or the Auberge du Lac.

The discovery trail (3.5 km) takes between 1? and 2 hours to complete, and if you’re feeling more sporty, the lake can be reached on foot from Oyonnax (14 km, or around 5 hours’ walk).

Doubs

Lake Bouverans for a peaceful outing

In a protected natural area where flora and fauna flourish, welcome to Lac de Bouverans! Once again ideal for all levels, this 45-minute walk will immerse you in nature, while entertaining you with its many riddles and sound panels.

You’ll be walking on stilts, as close as possible to the banks of the lake.

Thanks to the gentle relief of this region, the walks and hikes around the lakes are very often accessible and suitable for children. For more information on lake walks in the Jura Mountains, click here.

For more information

The ideal time to discover the waterfalls of the Jura Mountains

Let’s keep with the water theme, but this time in a much more agitated mood! From March onwards, the melting snow allows the waterfalls to regain their full vigour, the perfect opportunity to see this aquatic spectacle.

Once again, the accessibility of the walks offered by the Montagnes du Jura means that people of all ages and abilities can get as close as possible to the waterfalls.

While it may still be too cold to take a dip, the March-June period guarantees you the chance to watch an impressive surge of water, accompanied by the thud of litres falling before your very eyes. The perfect place to contemplate and disconnect for a moment.

To see some examples of majestic waterfalls not to be missed and discover all the secrets of the hidden waterfalls in the heart of the Jura Mountains, click here.

To find out more, click here.

Cycling outings: itineraries and activities to suit all tastes!

If you’re more into cycling than walking, the Jura Mountains are the perfect playground for you in spring. With no fewer than 2,000km of itineraries and a variety of activities on the plains or in mountain resorts, there’s something for everyone on a bike.

The advantage of exploring these trails between March and June is, firstly, that the weather is milder, with lower temperatures, and secondly, that there are fewer people on the roads!

What type of bike will you be choosing for your next outing? Here’s a quick overview of the options available to you:

• The essential mountain bike: an all-terrain bike that can be used on rough roads, because it’s specially designed to withstand the varied terrain, ensuring the rider’s comfort.
• The road bike: designed more for paved roads and signposted paths, the road bike has a lightweight frame and thin tyres. Ideal for the many family routes in the Jura mountains.
• The Gravel: this versatile bike is designed for riding on both tarmac and gravel roads. With its sturdy frame, wide tyres and stable geometry, it offers a comfortable, adventurous experience.
• The electric bike: thanks to its electric-assist motor, you can enjoy the countryside without too much effort. By adjusting the power of the motor, you’re free to choose the level of difficulty that suits you best.

Discover the different routes available in the Jura Mountains for a successful spring outing.