4.4
(478)
4,345
riders
179
rides
Touring cycling around Lac du Val offers routes through a landscape shaped by glacial activity, featuring numerous lakes and impressive waterfalls. The region is characterized by limestone plateaus, deep gorges, and vast forests of fir, beech, and oak. Cyclists can navigate diverse terrain, from well-paved roads winding through villages to unpaved paths alongside rivers, with varied elevation changes. This area, part of the French Jura Lakes region, provides a blend of natural beauty and cycling infrastructure.
Last updated: July 6, 2026
4.3
(4)
47
riders
21.8km
01:18
120m
120m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(24)
206
riders
30.8km
02:12
430m
430m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.5
(24)
214
riders
16.9km
01:17
260m
260m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(5)
22
riders
33.5km
02:08
400m
400m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(2)
26
riders
21.5km
01:27
220m
220m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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From the Maison des Cascades, a footpath leads up the gorge. A total of seven waterfalls can be admired. The highest falls 65m deep.
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An imposing lake, of a remarkable blue!
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View of Lac de Chalain from a small hiking trail.
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Lacs de Maclu are two adjacent lakes in the western part of the French Jura, in the Jura department of Franche-Comté. They are located at an elevation of 779 m in a depression in the High Jura, in the region of the Five Lakes near Le Frasnois, about 12 km south of Champagnole. The Petit Maclu, located to the northeast, has an area of 5 hectares, a length of about 500 m, and a maximum width of about 120 m. Its greatest depth is 11 m. It lies entirely within the municipal territory of Le Frasnois.
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Beautiful view of the lake, and afterward, we had a lovely swim in the lake. Nice bar with delicious ice cream.
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Easy, shaded path, perfect for cooling off in hot weather.
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On most maps it is called "Lac d’Ilay". The other name probably comes from the small island "Île de la Motte" which is located in the lake.
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The Lac du Val region offers a wide variety of touring cycling routes, with over 180 different options available on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, from easy lakeside paths to more challenging rides through the Jura mountains.
Touring cycling around Lac du Val features diverse terrain shaped by glacial activity. You'll encounter well-paved roads winding through picturesque villages, unpaved paths alongside rivers, and routes through vast forests of fir, beech, and oak. The landscape includes limestone plateaus, deep gorges, and varied elevation changes, offering both gentle hills and steeper ascents.
The Jura region, including Lac du Val, is beautiful for touring cycling from spring through autumn. The warmer months offer pleasant weather for exploring the lakes, waterfalls, and forests. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out, as conditions can vary, especially in the mountainous areas.
Yes, there are plenty of easy options for touring cyclists. For instance, the Hérisson Falls loop from Menétrux-en-Joux is an easy 8.7 km route that explores the famous waterfalls. Overall, komoot lists 27 easy touring cycling routes in the area, perfect for a relaxed ride.
Absolutely! The Hérisson waterfalls are a major highlight of the region. You can experience them directly on routes like the Hérisson Falls loop from Menétrux-en-Joux, which is an easy touring cycling route. The waterfalls feature 31 jumps and 7 cascades over a 3.7 to 4-kilometer stretch, offering an impressive natural spectacle.
Many routes provide stunning lake views. The Chalain Lake Viewpoint – Domaine de Chalain loop from Menétrux-en-Joux is a moderate route specifically designed to offer views of Lac de Chalain and its surroundings. The region is dotted with glacial lakes like Lac de Chalain, Lac de Vouglans, and the four lakes of Le Frasnois, providing numerous panoramic opportunities.
Yes, the Jura Mountains offer numerous greenways – paths where cars are not allowed – making them safe and enjoyable for families and leisurely rides. Many of the easier routes, particularly those around the lakes, are suitable for families. Consider routes with minimal elevation gain for younger riders.
To make the hilly terrain accessible to a wider range of cyclists, electric bikes (e-bikes) are available for rent at various departure points for tours like the Jurassic Vélo Tour. It's advisable to check with local tourist information centers or cycling shops in nearby towns like Doucier or Menétrux-en-Joux for specific rental locations.
Parking is generally available in the villages and near popular starting points for cycling routes around Lac du Val. For example, you can often find parking in Menétrux-en-Joux, Fontenu, or Doucier, which are common starting points for many komoot routes. Always check local signage for any parking restrictions or fees.
The region offers charming towns and villages where you can find cafes, restaurants, and accommodation. Cyclists can indulge in local gastronomy, including famous cheeses like Comté and local wines. Many routes pass through or near these settlements, providing opportunities for refreshments and breaks. The area also has various campsites and guesthouses.
The touring cycling routes in Lac du Val are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 540 reviews. Reviewers often praise the stunning natural beauty, the variety of terrain, and the well-maintained paths that allow for exploration of the glacial lakes and impressive waterfalls.
Yes, many touring cycling routes in the Lac du Val area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Lac de Chalain – Doucier Beach loop from Fontenu and the Lake Chalain – View of Lake Chalain loop from Doucier, both offering scenic circular rides.


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