Le lac des Rousses

Geography & environment :
At an altitude of 1075m, Lac des Rousses is surrounded by peat bogs, giving the site remarkable biological value. The water in this lake is so pure that it supplies many communes with drinking water. You can discover the typical fauna and flora of the peat bogs of the Haut-Jurassie region by walking a themed trail along the lake. Take advantage of the clear water for a swim or simply contemplate the beauty of the surrounding countryside. There is also a water sports centre where you can hire equipment.
Surface area: 97 ha. Depth: 22 m.

Activities (depending on the season) and on-site services:
A wide range of activities are available on this Haut-Jura lake:
- Beach and supervised swimming from 1 July to 31 August (ask the Tourist Office for details).
- Picnic area, relaxation furniture
- Water sports centre: http://www.lesrousses.com/a-voir-a-faire/activites-et-loisirs/lacs-et-activites-nautiques/base-nautique.html
- Restaurant
- Discovery trail of the peat bog, its flora and fauna
- Fishing: http://www.lesrousses.com/a-voir-a-faire/activites-et-loisirs/peche-en-montagne.html
- Hiking: signposted walking trail to discover the Lac des Rousses from the Tourist Office. Route sheet available from the Tourist Office (sheet 17) or download: http://www.openrunner.com/index.php?id=1835516
- Mountain biking: signposted trail from the Tourist Office to the Lac des Rousses. Information sheet for the route can be purchased from the Tourist Office (sheet no. 16) or downloaded from: http://www.openrunner.com/index.php?id=2054054.
- Snowshoeing: a signposted snowshoeing itinerary runs from the village (departure from l'Orbe) to the Rocher du Lac... beware of the peat bogs: http://www.lesrousses.com/a-voir-a-faire/glisse-et-activites-neige/raquettes.html
- Petanque courts
- Lockers
- Public toilets.

Getting there:
There are many ways to get to Lac des Rousses, something for everyone! Don't hesitate to pick up a topographical guide to walks and hikes in the Les Rousses resort at the Tourist Office.
There are 2 free car parks on site: one on the edge of the lake and another 500m to the right before the lake (a flat, stony path leads to the rocky outcrop of the lake, then you can cross over to the water sports centre and the beach via the path above the peat bogs).

Please note: to preserve the tranquillity and nature of the site:
Motorised boats are not permitted,
Certain areas of the lake are protected, so please follow the signs,
Our animal friends, even when kept on a lead, and bicycles are not permitted on the beaches, lawns or footpaths along the shores of the lake from 15 May to 15 September. Thank you for your understanding.

The Lac des Rousses peat bog is a wetland and refuge for a rare biodiversity that plays a vital role in preserving water resources and adapting to climate change. It has been awarded the Ramsar label, an international convention for the conservation and wise use of wetlands and their resources.