At the Saut de la Saisse, you can see how much the Vouglans reservoir has changed the landscape. Before the reservoir was filled, the River Ain plunged about 15 metres here. Since then, the former waterfall has largely disappeared. It may become partly or fully visible again in winter, when the reservoir level is lowered to generate electricity. Its appearance therefore depends on the water level and may change with the seasons.
Water landscapes and rock formations
The Belvédère sous les côtes offers views of Lac de Vouglans and the surrounding landscape. The viewpoint was restored and landscaped with the involvement of the Conservatoire du littoral. The views of the lake are therefore complemented by a place whose design is also part of the landscape’s history.
Another form of water’s influence can be seen at the Marmites de la Rivière d'Ain: these are formations created by erosion in the limestone bed of the Ain between Pont-de-Poitte and Patornay. These rock formations give the river a distinctive geological dimension. They can be considered separately from the history of the waterfall: here, the focus is on the effect of erosion on limestone; there, on the changes brought about by the reservoir.
Hiking and activities on the water
To see the unusual rock formations shaped by river erosion, a hike along the Route de la Saisse to the Saut de la Saisse is recommended. Check local conditions before setting out.
The GRP Tour du lac de Vouglans is a separate route: it is listed as 85.5 kilometres long and taking four days. In Pont-de-Poitte, access is via the road to Port de la Saisse, where there is a car park. This is a multi-day option, while the recommendation to follow the Route de la Saisse is about reaching the rock formations and the Saut. Check the route details again before setting off.
Port de la Saisse is used not only by recreational boaters: its main users are anglers, along with recreational boaters and other water-sports enthusiasts. A free slipway is available for launching boats. Check the operating conditions for the slipway locally. This makes the port a distinct point of interest alongside the viewpoints, hiking and river landscape.
Local history and industrial heritage
The history of local buildings adds to the range of experiences in Pont-de-Poitte. The church in Pont-de-Poitte is dedicated to Saint Brictius and Saint Vincent. The hamlet of Poitte is also home to a renovated church that was deconsecrated in the 12th century and is now a residence. A stone washhouse dating from the 20th century adds to the architectural heritage; its steep roof is covered with small tiles.
The Forges de la Saisse are part of the industrial heritage of the Jura and are described as a metallurgical works and a hydroelectric power station. These are remains of industrial use, not an operating visitor attraction. The Saut de la Saisse site was connected with the Forges; a hydroelectric power station operated there until 1970. This historical connection adds to the story of the reservoir landscape without conflating the two.
Travel planning can therefore take several different interests into account: the former waterfall’s changing seasonal visibility, the limestone formations shaped by erosion, the hiking options, and the architectural and industrial heritage. If the waterfall is a particular priority, bear in mind that it may be visible in winter; those interested in architectural history can explore different themes through the church, the washhouse and the Forges.
Discover more destinations
Discover more destinations: Champrougier, Peintre, Salins-Les-Bains, Lac Des Rouges Truites, MĂ©rona, Lamoura, Bois-D'amont, Mournans-Charbonny.
For the overall travel guide: Jura.
