Lac de Vouglans
Reservoir Large reservoir on the Ain river, dramatic cliffs
Lac de Vouglans is a large artificial reservoir in the Jura formed by a hydroelectric dam; the long shoreline and clear water attract boaters, anglers and lakeside drives.
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Lac de Vouglans is an artificial reservoir in eastern France’s Jura department, created by the construction of the Vouglans Dam on the river Ain. It is a large impounded lake used for hydroelectric generation and recreational activities along its shoreline.
The reservoir’s elongated, fjord-like shape and steep wooded banks produce many sheltered coves and beaches that are popular for boating, fishing and lakeside leisure. Roads and viewpoints run along parts of the lake, providing multiple access points and lookout spots.
The lake was formed when the dam was completed in the 1960s; its headpond flooded former river valleys and villages to create the present reservoir. It lies in the Jura region of Bourgogne-Franche-Comté and is accessed from nearby towns and departmental roads.
- Recreation and shoreline: The reservoir's long, narrow shape with numerous inlets creates sheltered bays used for boating and swimming; many small villages and viewpoints line the shores.
What to See #
- Vouglans Dam: The hydroelectric Vouglans Dam was completed in the late 1960s and impounds the river to form the reservoir; the dam infrastructure and headpond are focal points for services and viewpoints.
How to Get to Lac de Vouglans #
Lac de Vouglans is in the Jura department. The nearest towns are Saint-Claude and Lons-le-Saunier; access is best by car via the D436 and D469 roads. Regional bus services connect surrounding towns seasonally.
Tips for Visiting Lac de Vouglans #
- Drive the road that crosses the Vouglans dam for expansive views of the lake and the concrete arch.
- Visit midweek to avoid popular weekend boating crowds in summer.
- If cycling, use the dedicated lanes and watch for sections shared with car traffic near the dam.
Best Time to Visit Lac de Vouglans #
Summer for watersports and beach activities; autumn for quieter hiking and lakeside drives.
Weather & Climate near Lac de Vouglans #
Lac de Vouglans's climate is classified as Oceanic - Oceanic climate with mild summers (peaking in July) and cold winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -1°C to 24°C. Abundant rainfall (1164 mm/year), wettest in September, distributed fairly evenly throughout the year.
January
January is the coolest month with highs of 4°C and lows of -1°C. Regular rainfall (93 mm).
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February
February is cold with highs of 6°C and lows of -1°C. Regular rainfall (90 mm).
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March
March is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of 2°C. Moderate rainfall (79 mm).
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April
April is cold with highs of 14°C and lows of 4°C. Regular rainfall (94 mm).
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May
May is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 9°C. Significant rainfall (108 mm).
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June
June is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 12°C. Significant rainfall (104 mm).
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July
July is the warmest month with highs of 24°C and lows of 14°C. Regular rainfall (86 mm).
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August
August is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 13°C. Regular rainfall (81 mm).
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September
September is cool with highs of 20°C and lows of 10°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (110 mm).
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October
October is cool with highs of 15°C and lows of 7°C. Significant rainfall (109 mm).
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November
November is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of 2°C. Significant rainfall (109 mm).
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December
December is cold with highs of 5°C and lows of 0°C. Significant rainfall (101 mm).
