There is a place in France that could surprise many travelers. Just an hour from Lyon, a region offers landscapes reminiscent of the vast wilderness of Canada. A crystal-clear lake, bordered by lush forests and green hills, easily evokes the spirit of the great North American spaces. This haven of peace, far from the crowds and urban hustle and bustle, seems to be a little corner of Canada hidden in the heart of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. It is not a simple tourist place, but a natural sanctuary where you can reconnect with nature in all its splendor. Accessible from Lyon, this surprisingly Canadian setting is worth exploring for its beauty, tranquility and the diversity of activities it offers.
Why is this corner of France compared to Canada?
At first glance, this place could be mistaken for one of those pristine lakes in Canada, the resemblance is so striking. Hidden in the heart of the mountains of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, this region seems to have been sculpted to resemble the famous North American wilderness. The most striking element is undoubtedly the lake, with deep blue waters, surrounded by green hills. These landscapes, with their lush vegetation and clear waters, perfectly evoke Canadian lakes and forests.
What makes this place even more remarkable is the absence of the crowds that often invade tourist sites. Here, tranquility reigns, the places are preserved and almost frozen in time. While Canada fascinates with its wide open spaces and raw nature, this corner of France offers a more intimate and accessible version, while retaining that wild spirit that nature lovers seek. One hour from Lyon and less than an hour from Grenoble, this haven of peace is ideal for lovers of the great outdoors without leaving French territory.
To give you an idea, here are the distances from major cities.
| Departure city | Distance (in km) |
|---|---|
Activities not to be missed: an invitation to adventure or relaxation, depending on your desires
The appeal of this place lies in the diversity of activities offered, suitable for all types of travelers. Whether you are a thrill-seeker or a fan of tranquility, you will find something here to satisfy your desires.
- For lovers of water activities, the lake offers ideal conditions for kayaking, paddle boarding or sailing. Paddling on its turquoise waters, with the mountains in the background, is an unforgettable experience.
- If you prefer relaxation, there’s nothing like going for a swim in these crystal clear waters or enjoying a picnic on the green banks.
- Fishing enthusiasts will also appreciate the calm and beauty of the place, with the possibility of engaging in their favorite activity in complete serenity. All in a preserved natural setting, where thermal engine boats are prohibited in order to guarantee the tranquility of the place and the protection of its fragile ecosystem.
- But for those looking for more adventure, hikes on the trails surrounding the lake will allow you to discover breathtaking panoramas, while exploring the local flora and fauna. These trails, marked and suitable for all levels, will take you to more remote corners, where nature seems to have kept all its secrets. The diversity of landscapes, between dense forests and lake shores, offers a multitude of possibilities for hikers.
Aiguebelette: an exceptional lake near Lyon
Among the hidden treasures of the region, the Aiguebelette lake stands out as one of the most remarkable. Known for its almost unreal clear waters, this stretch of water extends for several kilometers, offering a true visual spectacle. What’s fascinating is that despite its obvious beauty, the lake remains a well-kept secret, far from the tourist crowds.
Located in the heart of a protected natural environment, Aiguebelette offers an exceptional setting where time seems to stand still. Here, the biodiversity is remarkable, with fauna and flora that develop in perfect balance, sheltered from external nuisances. There are rare and protected species there, a real treasure for nature enthusiasts, many activities are practiced there such as paragliding.
The calm and pure waters of the lake invite you to swim, but also to more discreet activities, such as bird watching or discovering little corners of paradise in the shade of the trees. This place is ideal for those looking for authentic contact with nature, far from the noise and hustle and bustle of major tourist destinations.
Vincent Mabire – 5 hours ago
