We open the doors to a place as dazzling as it is secret… Nestled in the heart of nature, this succession of waterfalls seems to have simply fallen from the sky. Here, everything is beautiful, calm and intoxicating. Just two hours from Lyon, set off for landscapes more dazzling than Canada or New Zealand. Watch out, though, because you’re in for an eyeful.
Les Cascades du Hérisson: 31 waterfalls, 7 cascades for an unspoilt paradise
As we all know, nature abhors a vacuum. However, in an area smaller than Lyon’s Presqu’île, she has decided to create a succession of waterfalls… but waterfalls! The Hérisson waterfalls, a listed site in the Grands Sites de France network, are truly unique. In winter, nature is all the more beautiful, for while the site is admirable every day of the year, the white of the snow and ice adds a magical, even sacred note to the place…
Saut de l’Éventail (65 m) and Grand Saut (60 m) are the two most impressive waterfalls, but don’t miss the magnificent Gour Bleu or Saut de la Forge either . If you’re a photo aficionado, don’t forget to bring your camera and recharge your cell phone, because we’re willing to put our money on it: you’ll literally want to shoot.
In 2026, I hike, you hike, we hike!
Here, there’s no need to embark on an expedition to the far reaches of Middle-earth to enjoy the show, with several itineraries to suit all levels. Coming from Ilay, Doucier or Bonlieu, you’re spoilt for choice. The longest hike takes 3 hours from the Maison des Cascades (16 Moulin du Val, Menétrux-en-Joux) and covers the entire site in 7km round trip. For the less experienced, a short walk of less than 2km round trip is possible from the Ilay parking lot.
Whatever you do, stick to the marked paths and don’t try to venture off the beaten track – the forest is slippery in winter. So don’t forget to put on your shoes and take along a water bottle and fleece as well. They’ll come in handy if you decide to stop off for a while, as you can quickly get cold!