Lac des Rousses

Lac des Rousses is a high-altitude inland lake in the Jura area that becomes a prime snowkiting location when it is frozen. The launch is described as a wide, flat ice surface with few underwater obstacles, making it well-suited to learning and straightforward riding once conditions and access rules are confirmed. Wind for snowkiting is reported with best directions in the NE and SW sectors. NE is associated with the colder Bise airflow and is commonly described as more steady/reliable, while the lake setting can also create localized turbulence—particularly near the western shore in South-West winds. Typical on-ice winds are described in the ~10 to 25 knots range, with moderate gusting. Safety and access are the main considerations. Ice activities are only authorized during specific winter periods and fixed daily hours under municipal orders, and riders are advised to confirm ice thickness with local authorities before going onto the lake. Hazards include thin ice, cross-country skiers/nearby ski tracks, and also trees and power lines bordering the lake. In summer, the spot shifts away from snowkiting: water temperatures rise and the lake supports swimming and light-wind activities around the nautical base, but kitesurfing on the water is generally prohibited to protect nesting birds and for safety with swimmers.