Le Petit Maclu pours into the Grand Maclu which is connected to Lake Ilay by a canal.
The edges of the 2 Maclu are organized into concentric halos called plant belts which follow one another from the aquatic environment to dry land. These are particularly rich and diverse ecological environments: there are water lilies, sedges, reeds, rushes, alders and willows. Protected Natura 2000 area.
The Petit Maclu and the Grand Maclu are private lakes, swimming is not allowed.
Le Lake Ilay is a natural lake of glacial origin with a wild appearance. This lake will surprise you with its surroundings turquoise colors on a clear day with its cliffs in the background.
This one is also called the Motte lake because it has the particularity of having an island or mound.
The island was connected to the land by a causeway, today submerged, but the trace of which can be followed by the rushes which cover it.
Archaeological excavations attest that the motte was already inhabited in the Neolithic period, a monastery was installed there around the year XNUMX, “the Saint-Vincent priory”.
Very elongated in shape with an area of 72 hectares and an average depth of 10 m, it is fed mainly by Grand Maclu Lake to which it is connected by a small natural canal of approximately 200 meters.
Lake Ilay flows into the Hérisson River.
In Lake Ilay, boating is prohibited by municipal decree and swimming is tolerated, under your own responsibility.
To swim in complete peace of mind and enjoy different facilities (beaches, games, etc.) you can go to:
- To chalain lake (30 minutes) : www.lac-chalain.com
- to lakes of Clairvaux-les-lacs (25 minutes) : www.juralacs.com
- To Vouglans lake (40 minutes) : www.lac-de-vouglans.com
Lake Ilay is a preserved and fragile natural space, which is home to many wildlife species.
It is also the source of drinking water for the surrounding villages.
We are counting on you to show discretion and sensitivity to the environment of this lake:
pick up your waste, keep your distance from wild fauna and flora, handle your animals, limit the use of sunscreen, etc.
In order to ensure the protection of this framework, different regulations are put in place around the lake:
- a wildlife quiet zone between the lakes is set up from April 15 to September 15: please do not enter between the lakes!
- bivouac, camping and fires are prohibited in the 4 lakes sector
- do not go to Île de la Motte.
Thank you in advance for your help in protecting this gem!
Wetlands and lakes are preserved and fragile natural spaces. Please do not leave the marked trails and respect the tranquility of the area.
Cows and horses maintain the wetlands around the 4 lakes and change parks during the season. These animals are very hardy: do not try to approach them or feed them, this could harm their health and your safety.
Wildflowers are beautiful, they can be rare and protected and often wilt quickly. Don't pick them! They will delight future hikers.
Please keep your dog on a leash if you have one.
