Despite the diversity of the villages around Lyon, such as Oingt, or the lakes, such as Aiguebelette, are you short of ideas for day trips? Don’t worry, we’ve got just what you’re looking for. Since the dawn of time, waterfalls have always held a unique power of attraction and fascination. Like Malleval, the waterfalls in the Dortan region are no exception to the rule… At the turn of a path in the middle of the forest, they are there, seemingly waiting for nothing more than the amazement of passers-by…
Dortan, Lake Coiselet and its little-known waterfalls
It all begins in the small village of Dortan, in the Bienne valley. The village is located in the north of the Ain department, just a stone’s throw from the border with the Jura, marked out a few cables further on by the Lac de Coiselet. Another jewel of the region, this lake, whose shores are temporarily closed, is nonetheless worth a look from above, from the magnificent viewpoint of the Pierre qui Vire.
The area is blessed with a generous natural environment, as the waterfalls can be reached from the south of the village via a small, easily accessible forest track. A number of yellow signs will help you find your way from the center of the village to reach the site without too much difficulty. Allow one kilometer round trip. Although the Combe tufa waterfall is the best-known, there is also a small waterfall upstream, and a much larger one that is more difficult to access.
La Combe tufa waterfall, the star of the show
Tucked away in its green setting, the Combe tufa waterfall ‘s first surprise is its sugar-loaf shape. Its relatively small basin, however, is not lacking in charm. You could spend hours contemplating its inexhaustible fecundity. For the more adventurous, you can take the (easy) climb behind the waterfall to immortalize your exploits as a seasoned mountaineer.
Looking for the region’s most beautiful waterfalls? Prolong the pleasure by heading to Saint-Claude, to the Cascade des Combes, one of the favorite spots of the famous writer Alphonse de Lamartine… and it’s easy to see why!