Best lakes around Soucia, a commune in the Jura department of France, serve as a gateway to several notable lakes. The surrounding Jura region features picturesque lakes, offering tranquility and opportunities for scenic walks. This area provides a chance to appreciate the natural and historical heritage of the Jura region.
Last updated: July 1, 2026
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Non-glacial lake, but artificial, filled in 1968 (Vouglans dam) swallowing the Wild Valley of the Ain river and three villages! But... superb body of water and protected region! To do: complete tour (80 kms), South 1/2 tour sometimes quite technical, and North 1/2 tour (fun), or even West coast from Orgelet-Plaisair or East side from Maisod - Coyron! Nice ride MC
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Perfect, with a group of young people, medium level. Very beautiful view of the lake
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Magnificent lake of glacial origin, at the foot of the first plateau of the Jura massif. Beautiful view of the turquoise lagoon from the sailing club.
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The monks of Saint-Claude are credited with establishing a monastery in the 6th century to the southwest of the Abbey Lake on the island known as sur la Motte. Then, probably having fallen into disuse for several centuries, a second monastery succeeded it in the 12th century (1172) built to the northeast of the lake on the current site of the hamlet of l'Abbaye by the canons of the Abbey of Abondance (Augustinians of Haute-Savoie). The status of abbey, served by a particular abbot, remained for a century, until the monastery was the subject of an exchange of goods between the abbot of Abondance and that of Saint-Claude. Once again dependent on the Abbey of Saint-Claude, the Abbey of Grandvaux regained the status of priory. From the fortified buildings of the 12th century, which were accessed by a drawbridge, there remains today an old farm building (called La Joséphine after the former owner of the place), a presbytery and a church, dedicated to Notre-Dame de la Nativité, like that of Abondance. The site has been listed since September 15, 1966. A site to discover through a stroll in 4 scenes, evoking the history of the site.
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Lake L'Abbaye in the Jura Mountains is surrounded by hills and forests. Its clear waters reflect the landscape, offering a peaceful setting for boating, fishing, and hiking. Unfortunately, swimming is not permitted.
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This lake is one of the lesser known in the Jura, but it has its place, with stunning views all year round and the abbey which is its jewel.
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The La Fratte belvedere is a superb view of the cliffs overlooking the turquoise lake and the forest.
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The region offers several breathtaking viewpoints. The La Fratte Viewpoint provides a superb panorama of cliffs overlooking a turquoise lake and forest, with secured barriers for safe viewing. Additionally, the Pyle Bridge, spanning Lake Vouglans, offers a spectacular panoramic view from its 385-meter length and 65-meter height above the water.
Yes, the Abbey Lake is particularly notable for its historical significance. On its shores, you'll find the Church of Our Lady of the Nativity of the Abbey and Abbey Site of Grandvaux, which has been listed since 1966. This site, with its origins dating back to 6th and 12th-century monasteries, offers a glimpse into centuries of history and is perfect for a historical stroll.
The area around Soucia's lakes is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy cycling on routes like the 'Stunning view of the lake – Start of Lake Vouglans loop' found in the Cycling around Soucia guide. For mountain biking, consider trails such as 'Between the 2 lakes – SCIE Viewpoint loop' from the MTB Trails around Soucia guide. Gravel biking is also popular, with routes like 'Lac de Clairvaux-les-Lacs – Pyle Bridge loop' available in the Gravel biking around Soucia guide.
Many of the lakes and viewpoints are suitable for families. The La Fratte Viewpoint is considered family-friendly, offering safe viewing platforms. The Pyle Bridge also has sidewalks, making it safe for pedestrians of all ages to enjoy the panoramic views over Lake Vouglans. Lake Bonlieu is also ideal for walking with family.
While many lakes offer beautiful scenery, swimming is often prohibited in certain areas to preserve their pristine nature or due to safety concerns. For instance, swimming is not permitted in Abbey Lake. Similarly, swimming is prohibited in Lake Bonlieu due to strong underground currents, making it unsafe for even experienced swimmers. It's always best to check local regulations for each specific lake.
Abbey Lake, though perhaps not the most widely known, possesses a unique charm. It is surrounded by beautiful lawns perfect for relaxation and picnics. Its most distinctive feature is the historic abbey on its shores, which significantly enhances its picturesque setting and adds a rich historical dimension to the natural landscape.
From locations like the La Fratte belvedere, you can expect breathtaking views of cliffs overlooking lakes with mesmerizing turquoise waters. These spots are ideal for experiencing the serene beauty of the Jura landscape and offer stunning visual spectacles, even if swimming is restricted in some of these pristine areas.
Visitors particularly appreciate the tranquility and the opportunities for scenic walks around the lakes. The chance to immerse oneself in the natural and historical heritage of the Jura region is a major draw. Highlights like the La Fratte Viewpoint and Abbey Lake are well-loved for their beauty and unique characteristics, with the community upvoting highlights and sharing photos.
Yes, many lakes offer pleasant walking opportunities. Lake Bonlieu, for example, is described as ideal for walking. The areas around lakes like Abbey Lake with its surrounding lawns also provide easy and picturesque strolls.
For a spectacular panoramic view of Lake Vouglans, you should visit the Pyle Bridge. This monumental structure spans the lake, connecting Maisod and Orgelet, and is equipped with two sidewalks, allowing pedestrians to safely cross and enjoy the expansive vistas.
The region around Soucia is rich in diverse natural features. You can expect to see serene lakes, dramatic cliffs, lush forests, and picturesque lawns. Many lakes, like those visible from the La Fratte Viewpoint, are known for their striking turquoise waters, offering a vibrant contrast to the surrounding greenery.


Still not found your perfect lake around Soucia? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.