Situated : between Doucier, Marigny and Fontenu. Origin: Glacier Area: 232 Ha. Length : 2.9 km Depth : Moyenne 20 m. Altitude : 500 m
Lake Chalain is the biggest natural lake in Jura.
Between 4000 and 1000 B.C, the first farmers of Neolithic time built their villages on piles on the shores of lake Chalain. The vestiges were exceptionally well preserved under the level of the lake. The archaeological zone is not presently open to the public. After 30 years of studies and excavations, the site is a great documentary source to learn daily life of men and women during Neolithic period. More information: http://www.chalain.culture.gouv.fr ).
Today, lake Chalain is a paradise for water sports and holidays. Many activities are possible. Nice point of view on turquoise water from Fontenu.
Activities :
Bathing :
3 supervised beaches. Parkings are not free in July and August:
-Domaine de Chalain, access from Doucier
Day: 4.50 € (car), 2.30 € (motorbike), 14.00 € (bus).
Half-day (after 2.00 p.m): 3.00 €
-The Pergola (Marigny):
Parking of camping : 1st ½ hour is free / 2€ the 2nd ½ hour / 20 cts per
additional ¼ hour.)
Parking of village : day (until 4.00 p.m.) 3€ / afternoon (4.00 - 6.00
p.m.) 2 €
-Beach of Doucier:
During the week for one day: 3.5 € (car), 2.5 € (motorbike), 8.00 € (camping car)
During week end for one day: 4 € (car), 2.5 € (motorbike), 8.00 € (camping car)
Other water activities: fishing, sailing, kayak, pedalos, water park Les Lagons (in domaine de Chalain). Pic nic area.
Hiking on foot or by moutain bike: tour of lake (10 km), North circuit (4.5 km), South circuit (6 km).
