Ain. Get away from it all near the Haut-Bugey lakes

The owners of Lake Genin allow campervans and other converted vehicles to park in the inn's parking lot from April to mid-October for short stays. The space is approximately 40. Wild camping and bivouacking are strictly prohibited throughout the private and protected site. The campsite's twenty or so pitches are only rented seasonally and are not available to passing guests. Photo: Alexandre Psaltopoulos — The owners of Lake Genin allow campervans and other converted vehicles to park in the inn's parking lot from April to mid-October for short stays. The space is approximately 40. Wild camping and bivouacking are strictly prohibited throughout the private and protected site. The campsite's twenty or so pitches are only rented seasonally and are not available to passing guests. Photo by Alexandre Psaltopoulos

Looking for a refreshing dip? Just an hour from Lyon, Haut-Bugey is an ideal destination for a green getaway and a swim in clear natural lakes. This area, located in the northeastern part of Ain, boasts several must-see spots. Lake Genin, nicknamed Little Canada, is surrounded by a pine forest and features a small gourmet inn. In Nantua, another visual experience awaits swimmers, with a magnificent panorama of cliffs some 100 meters high.

For tourists who appreciate a little more peace and quiet, Lake Samognat, popular with fishermen, is a good compromise. Finally, on the Hauteville plateau, the natural swimming area of Champdor-Corcelles attracts young and old alike every summer.

Good news: you can park your campervan or motorhome near all these sites. Here's everything you need to know.

How much does it cost?

A campervan holiday in the upper Bugey region is suitable for all budgets. Some parking areas are even free, such as the one located in the Gallo-Roman village of Izernore or in Belleydoux, at the Flot Bleu relay (€2 for services). At Lake Genin, the parking fee is €7 (water and waste disposal, but no electricity).

At the campsite level, for a pitch and electricity package, expect to pay around €14/day at Champdor-Corcelles, €17 at Nantua (for 2 people), €19 at Poizat-Lalleyriat (1 person), €31 at Matafelon-Granges (6 people) and €32 at Plateau d'Hauteville (2 people).

Prices subject to change, depending on the dates and conditions of the stay.