Lac de Sylans

Lac de Sylans is a mountain lake surrounded by forested slopes and rocky cliffs in the French Alps. The water appears clear and deep blue, and the lake attracts local fishers and nature lovers who appreciate its quiet setting.

The lake formed centuries ago when a rockslide on the northern cliff dammed the Doye River and created a natural barrier. Later it was used from the 1800s into the early 1900s for ice storage and distribution.

The name comes from the nearby Sylans peak in the Alps. Visitors can walk along the shoreline in summer, pausing at open spots where light plays across the water in appealing ways.

The lake is easiest to explore by staying on the paths that ring the water, especially if you prefer easy walking access. The best time to visit is during warmer months when the trails are dry and comfortable to walk.

The water seeps underground through hidden passages and reappears downriver as the source of the Doye, creating a natural filtering system. This underground journey keeps the water exceptionally pure for later bottling.

Location: Le Poizat-Lalleyriat

Location: Les Neyrolles

Elevation above the sea: 584 m

GPS coordinates: 46.16111,5.66389

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:03