Les Pertes de la Valserine — Attraction in Nantua

A spectacular stretch of the Valserine river (a tributary of the Rhône) with waterfalls that plunge into it from on high and where the water virtually disappears into cauldron-shaped holes and squeezes through impossible gaps in the limestone rock. Visit in the spring when the flow is greatest to feel the rush and marvel at the thundering of the water. Or go in late summer when levels are low and join the brave (foolhardy?) by taking a dip - but watch both the current (still fierce) and temperature (bone-chilling!) Approach from either the (signposted) car park on the main D1084 or from the other side on the road to Lancrans (also well marked). The latter is an easy walk downhill on a quiet road which segues...

Really fascinating and impressive piece of nature. You can park your car up the hill or at the train station in the village and take a walk from there. Discover these gorges as the mass of water runs through it. Along the route through the gorges there's also the site of an old paper mill. If you take the whole hike it takes about three hours. But you can walk parts of it. If you park your car up the hill, be aware of the steep path down to the gorges. Wear comfortable...

One of the best places to visit from Geneva as it is just a 40-minute drive.

The Valserine River has carved deep gorges into these limestone rocks and formed as canyons. Watch out while you hike might be slippery. The trail starts at the car park located at the start of Rue Louis Dumont, just after you pass under the rail viaduct.

You can see old hydraulic power station & paper mill while you hike. Very pleasant in summer, little walk, it climbs...