Lake Chaillexon: Discover This Pristine Natural Lake

What Is Lake Chaillexon?

A Natural Lake on the Border Between France and Switzerland

Located in the Haut-Doubs region, this vast body of water forms a natural boundary between France and Switzerland. On the Swiss side, it is known as Lake Les Brenets. The lake was formed following a huge prehistoric rockslide that blocked the course of the river, creating this magnificent basin with its dark, mysterious waters, majestically surrounded by towering limestone cliffs.

The Shores of Lake Chaillexon

The shores of the lake refer to the vast stretches of exposed shoreline that appear when the water level drops significantly in summer. Due to drought and the porous, karstic nature of the underlying rock, the lake regularly drains through the bottom, transforming part of the site into a grassy basin and leaving tourist boats stranded in the harbour.

The Connection with the Saut du Doubs Waterfall

The calm waters of this basin eventually plunge into an impressive 27-metre-high waterfall: the legendary Saut du Doubs. This inseparable connection between the lake and the waterfall makes the area one of the most popular and iconic tourist destinations in the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region.

Hiking Around Lake Chaillexon

General hiking information.

Trails for All Levels

The area is a true paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The network of hiking trails is clearly signposted and suitable for all abilities. Whether you are looking for a gentle one-hour walk or a route requiring several hours of hiking, you are sure to find a trail suited to your level of fitness.

Walking Around the Lake from Villers-le-Lac

To discover Lake Chaillexon from every angle, we recommend following the beautiful trail that closely follows its shores from the town of Villers-le-Lac. This very pleasant walk takes you through beautiful, shady woodland and regularly offers incredible unobstructed views over the river’s winding course.

Routes to the Saut du Doubs Waterfall

Walking to the main waterfall is the area’s must-do excursion. Several options are available:

the classic trail from the Vions car park, which is easy, wide and very well maintained;
the more challenging hike along the ridges, offering sweeping views over the entire canyon;
the cross-border trail, allowing you to travel from the French shore to the Swiss shore via a pedestrian footbridge.

Elevation Gain and Trail Duration

The classic trail along the water is almost flat, making it ideal for a roughly two-hour round trip. However, if you choose the forest trails that climb towards the higher viewpoints, be prepared for a much more demanding elevation gain, and make sure you wear good hiking shoes.

Nature Activities and Leisure at Lake Chaillexon

Cycling and Cycle Touring in the Haut-Doubs

Cyclists of all abilities will also find plenty to enjoy, thanks to the many designated routes. The quiet country roads of the watchmaking region and the extensive forest tracks allow you to explore the mountains at your own pace while enjoying magnificent open views over the river basins.

Wildlife and Plant Observation

This protected natural site is a remarkable biodiversity sanctuary. Don’t forget your binoculars to observe the many migratory birds, peregrine falcons nesting in the cavities of the cliffs, as well as the rich flora of the vast coniferous forests characteristic of the Jura climate.

Cruises on Lake Chaillexon

For a discovery experience without any physical effort, climb aboard the traditional sightseeing boats! These guided cruises travel peacefully along the winding waterways to the waterfall landing stage, offering a unique and spectacular perspective from the foot of the immense rocky cliffs.

Family Activities

This area is the ideal destination for a truly enjoyable holiday in the Jura. Between the easy walks along the water, pleasant boat trips and visits to the watchmaking museums in Morteau or Villers-le-Lac, your children will not have a dull moment.

Visiting Lake Chaillexon: Practical Information

Essential practical information to know.

How to Reach the Lake from Villers-le-Lac and Les Brenets

The main access point on the French side is easily reached by car from the centre of Villers-le-Lac, following the large tourist signs. On the Swiss side, you can reach the lakeshore by travelling down directly from the picturesque village of Les Brenets.

Best Time to Visit

Late spring and summer are undoubtedly the perfect seasons to enjoy the coolness of the forests and the various water-based activities. Autumn, meanwhile, offers an incredible visual spectacle as the leaves of the deciduous trees take on warm, coppery colours.

Restaurants and Places to Eat

After your walk, why not take a gourmet break and enjoy an authentic Morteau sausage at one of the charming local inns? For a stay combining comfort and local culinary traditions, book a good hotel and restaurant in the Jura and enjoy an authentic immersion in Franche-Comté cuisine.

Accommodation Near the Lake

There is a wide range of tourist accommodation in the area. You will easily find shaded campsites, welcoming guesthouses and well-equipped holiday villages, allowing you to explore the whole of this beautiful cross-border region.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lake Chaillexon

Is Lake Chaillexon Accessible in Winter?

Yes. During particularly harsh winters, the water can freeze completely, transforming the site into a gigantic natural ice rink. However, extreme caution is still required.

Can You Swim in Lake Chaillexon?

Swimming is neither supervised nor really recommended. The water remains particularly cold, even in summer, and the shores are very steep.

How Long Does It Take to Walk Around the Lake?

To complete a longer loop including the viewpoints and the waterfall, allow between four and five hours of walking at a steady pace.

Is There Parking Near Lake Chaillexon?

Absolutely. Large free car parks, such as the one at Les Vions in Villers-le-Lac, are specially provided for visitors and are located just a few minutes from the lakeshore.

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Lake Chaillexon: Discover This Gem of the Haut-Doubs

What Is Lake Chaillexon?

A Natural Lake on the Border Between France and Switzerland

The Shores of Lake Chaillexon

The Connection with the Saut du Doubs Waterfall

Hiking Around Lake Chaillexon

Trails for All Levels

Walking Around the Lake from Villers-le-Lac

Routes to the Saut du Doubs Waterfall

Elevation Gain and Trail Duration

Nature Activities and Leisure at Lake Chaillexon

Cycling and Cycle Touring in the Haut-Doubs

Wildlife and Plant Observation

Cruises on Lake Chaillexon

Family Activities

Visiting Lake Chaillexon: Practical Information

How to Reach the Lake from Villers-le-Lac and Les Brenets

Best Time to Visit

Restaurants and Places to Eat

Accommodation Near the Lake

Frequently Asked Questions About Lake Chaillexon

Is Lake Chaillexon Accessible in Winter?

Can You Swim in Lake Chaillexon?

How Long Does It Take to Walk Around the Lake?

Is There Parking Near Lake Chaillexon?

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