Pertes de l'Ain

The River Ain has cut its way through a narrow gorge some fifteen metres deep, just a few kilometres from its source, tirelessly carving out the rock over thousands of years. The river rushes underground before gushing out at Bourg-de-Sirod, in a basin giving rise to a splendid "ponytail" waterfall.

Until the beginning of the 20th century, the water supplied energy to the old forges located nearby, and then to a hydroelectric power station. When the flow of the water becomes intense, the river rises up and travels along the bottom of the gorge in a dull and impressive bubbling.

At the heart of this fully equipped and secure site, a path leads to the footbridges overlooking the gorges, allowing hikers to contemplate the magnificent work of the water as it skims over the walls of the rocky gorge. Explanatory panels punctuate the walk to discover this mysterious place so strongly marked by the history of the country, the evolution of its industry and its natural wealth.

At Les Pertes de l'Ain, the seasons follow one another but are never the same: sometimes fiery, sometimes discreet, the waters reveal their countless facets all year round.
the year.
Hike no. 33 in the Champagnole Nozeroy Jura hiking guide.