Lake Ilay, a natural jewel of glacial origin, has a wild and enchanting appearance. The lake will surprise you with its turquoise waters on a clear day, contrasting magnificently with the imposing cliffs that surround it.

Also known as Lac de la Motte, it is distinguished by the presence of an island, or motte, at its centre. In the past, this island was linked to the mainland by a causeway, now submerged, the course of which is still visible thanks to the rushes that cover it.

The history of this site goes back to time immemorial. Archaeological digs have revealed human occupation as far back as the Neolithic period. Around the year 1000, a monastery, the Saint-Vincent priory, was built on the island, testifying to the spiritual and strategic importance of the site.

The elongated lake covers an area of 72 hectares, with an average depth of 10 metres. It is fed mainly by the Lac du Grand Maclu, to which it is linked by a small natural canal some 200 metres long. The waters of Lac d'Ilay then flow into the picturesque Rivière du Hérisson.

A remarkable site, classified as a Natura 2000 and Ramsar site "Peat bogs and lakes of the Jura mountains", Lac d'Ilay, like all 4 lakes, welcomes a large number of visitors. To preserve the balance of the site and its natural heritage, a voluntary tranquillity zone has been set up from 15 April to 15 September (in brown on the map). This limits disturbance to animal species during the breeding and rearing season, prevents trampling and preserves the tranquillity of the various natural environments.

Please respect the area and help us to preserve the environment: stay on the marked footpaths, keep your dog on a lead, don't pick flowers, don't make fires, don't swim, and remember that camping and bivouacking are prohibited throughout the area.

Possible activities :
Hiking (tour of 3 lakes / 4 lakes) and mountain biking (tour of 5 lakes), cycling (loops 12 and 6) horse riding, activities and entertainment on offer during the holidays ...
Swimming is prohibited.