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Tourism
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The lake and surrounding area :
| The lac de Chalain is of glacial origin and man
has visited it for centuries. The first traces of man living
on its shores date from 3,600 years BC. The lake has become
an important European archeological site due to its richness
in prehistoric artifacts. |
Because of this, the lake and the
immediate surrounding area has been classed as a protected zone
(for example, the use of motorized boats is prohibited contributing
to the tranquility of the area). According to the season, the
lake and its surrounding area provides for many outdoor activities
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The water
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The quality of the lake water is excellent, assuring
relaxing swims throughout the summer season. The beaches are
patrolled by qualified lifeguards. |
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The respectable size of the lake (230 hectares)
allows for the practice of numerous watersports such as: sailing,
rowing, canoeing, or windsurfing (equipment rental available
locally). It is possible to take sailing lessons (from beginner
to advanced) at the Nautic Club (03 84 25 78 55). |
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For those who enjoy fishing the lake is home
to pike, perch, dace, and many other species. The Ain river
is only 2 km away permitting a rapid change of environment for
those wishing to go fly-fishing for trout. |
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You can also discover this splendid valley of
the Ain by canoe or kayak leaving the village of Pont du Navoy,
5 km away. |
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For those seeking more extreme sensations, canyoning
may be practiced in the Bienne valley. |
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The land
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Several trails that start from the house and
circle the lake (~9 km) can be navigated by foot or by mountain
bike. An extensive network of trails connects with surrounding
areas allowing for outings adapted to the physical condition
of each individual. |
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Several exceptional natural sites are at close
proximity and should definitely not be missed: les cascades
du Hérisson (a series of waterfalls) and the lookout
point over the lake at Fontenu are two examples. On the road
leading to the waterfalls, an animal park (la ferme des Aurochs
03 84 25 72 95) showcases bison, aurochs and Scottish ox. Horseback
riding may be practiced at the equestrian club/pony club at
Doucier (03 84 25 71 30). |
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There are many museums in the area that will
occupy those rainy days. At the toy museum (le musée
du Jouet) located at Moirans en Montagne, adults will rediscover
with a touch of nostalgia, their childhood toys, while their
children learn about the development process of a toy, from
its conception to its marketing. |
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For those interested in golf, several courses
in the surrounding area offer greens in the sumptuous countryside. |
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During the winter season the tranquility and
the beauty of the site can be appreciated on snowshoes or on
foot along the many forest trails which start from the house
and circle the lake. This is an excellent way to meet up with
some of the local wildlife (deer, chamois, foxes). |
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Those who enjoy winter sports will find cross-country
and downhill skiing as well as snowboarding starting at 20 km
from the lake. In the evening, unwind and relax in the cosy
and warm atmosphere of the house on the shores of lac de Chalain
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The air
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The ALIZE ULM base at Doucier (03 84 25 71 93)
will give you the opportunity to discover the thrill of a first
time flight or a longer version offering a bird's eye view of
the most breathtaking sites of the region. |
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For the more adventurous, the mountainous terrain
of the Jura offer numerous sites that are ideal for practicing
hang-gliding and para-gliding. |
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The sky
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Weather forecast of Lons-le-Saunier: |
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Other useful sites
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see
the lakes region