Via Ferrata du Regardoir
Set high above the turquoise waters of Lac de Vouglans in the Jura region of France, the Via Ferrata du Regardoir offers an exhilarating mix of vertical excitement and breathtaking panorama. Whether you’re seeking your first via ferrata or you’re an experienced climber looking to enjoy a dramatic cliffside route with a lake view, this route delivers. As the sun glints off the water below and you traverse ladders, suspended beams and a long footbridge, you’ll feel the rush of height and the serenity of nature all at once.
Trail Overview
Location: Near Moirans‑en‑Montagne, Jura department, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, France.
Length: Roughly 350 metres of vertical route.
Elevation gain: Approximately 80 metres (from about 570 m to around 650 m) above the lake.
Difficulty rating: Varies depending on the chosen variant — from AD (“fairly difficult”) up to D (“difficult”).
Duration: Typically 1.5 to 2 hours for the via ferrata section itself.
Season: Open from late June/early July to mid-November; closed between 15 Feb and 15 Jun for biotope protection.
Route Description
You begin by reaching the car park at the “Le Regardoir” viewpoint (approx. 570 m altitude) above the lac. From there, a short approach takes you to the base of the via ferrata along the western cliff.
Initial Traverse: A fairly gentle start along the rock face, offering wide views over the lake. This section allows you to gain confidence and absorb the setting.
Main Vertical Section & Variants: After the easier part, you reach a segment with metal ladders, suspended beams, and monkey bridges facing the void above the lake. One of the standout features is a footbridge of some 90 metres spanning the cliff with the lake below.
Return/Descent: After completing the ferrata ridge, a short walk through forest leads you back to the viewpoint or parking area.
The route offers a choice of variants: one somewhat easier, the other more athletic — meaning you can tailor the experience to your level.
Highlights
Spectacular panorama: The cliff hangs above Lac de Vouglans whose vivid turquoise colour shines through the forest below — an unforgettable backdrop.
90-metre footbridge: A heart-racing traverse that brings the thrill of height and exposure in one dramatic moment.
Varied terrain: From serene scenic traverse to ladders and beams in the void — the route keeps you engaged and focused.
Accessible adventure: The combination of dramatic flair and manageability makes it a superb introduction to via ferrata for intermediate-level participants.
Seasonal atmosphere: Late summer light, forested cliffs and the lake backdrop all combine to make it a visually striking experience.
Difficulty & Required Skills
While the Via Ferrata du Regardoir is accessible to many, it is not purely a walk and demands appropriate gear and mindset.
Fitness & head for heights: You’ll be exposed on ladders and traverses above a cliff face — comfortable with heights is essential.
Equipment: Standard via ferrata kit — harness, energy-absorbing lanyard set, helmet, gloves, sturdy shoes.
Route rating: With ratings from AD to D depending on variant, expect considerable exposure and physical demand in sections.
Technical aspects: Ladders, footbridges, steel beams and over-hanging or vertical sections require good use of arms and legs — though none of the high-mountain technical gear (crampons, rope belay) is needed.
Ideal for: Adventurers with some experience of height, comfortable on exposed trails. Novices should consider a guided option.
Not suitable for: Those with severe vertigo, poor upper-body strength, or expecting a leisurely stroll.
When to Go
Late June → Mid November: The official opening window. The route is closed during the biotope protection period (15 Feb – 15 Jun).
Summer afternoons: The cliff faces west, offering shade until about 13:00; in hot weather an earlier start or afternoon slot is advised.
Weather caution: Avoid during rain or storms — metal structures are slippery and subject to lightning risk.
Best time: For best light, go mid-summer; for fewer crowds and autumn colours, September is superb.
Access & Logistics
Getting there: Drive to Moirans-en-Montagne in the Jura region. Then follow signs to the “Belvédère du Regardoir” car park above Lac de Vouglans.
Parking: The vantage point features a parking area at the viewpoint.
Fee: A paid entry pass is required (season or per-pass) for the via ferrata.
Approach: Very short (approx. 10 minutes walk) from the car park to the start of the via.
Return: After finishing, a short descent through forest returns you to the parking/viewpoint.
Guide option: For those less experienced, guided sessions are available and may include full gear and instruction.
Why It Belongs on Every Adventurer’s List
The Via Ferrata du Regardoir isn’t just another climbing route — it combines scenic beauty, thrill of exposure, and accessibility in one unforgettable experience. You get to traverse ladders and beams suspended above a lake, feel height and rock under your hands, all with the Jura forest and lake shimmering below.
For mountain lovers who crave a mixture of adrenaline and scenic calm, this ferrata serves both. It’s the kind of outing that leaves you with a story, a rush, and a view you won’t forget. Whether you’re ticking your first via ferrata or looking for a dramatic but achievable alpine adventure, this route checks the boxes.
