ベルフォンテーヌの湖・トップ7

Bikepacking trip with a night bivouac on the shores of Lac des Rousses, beach side. Very windy at night, so wrap up warm. Otherwise, a magnificent lake with few people (early August).

A very nice border village to relax in after a bike ride (from Geneva in our case). We spent the afternoon and a night camping near the lake. Shops nearby for supplies 👍

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.

This site is magnificent and the footbridge allowed us to complete a very pleasant hike.

It is a typical Jura village. It benefits from a lot of sporting and cultural activities. It is the starting point for many hikes. It is located on the route of the Grande Traversée du Jura or GTJ (https://www.gtj.asso.fr/). To be discovered in all seasons, whether on foot, by bike, by mountain bike, by snowshoes or by ski.

Warning (15/08/2023)! The footbridge is temporarily closed (cable break). It is however possible to cross below by the large rocks. This remains a delicate passage.

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.

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.