Pointe de Sable Beach: the family swimming spot of Lake Joux

A wild swimming spot by Lake Joux

There is, on the west shore of Lake Joux, a little piece of paradise that families from the Vallée de Joux pass down almost as a secret. The Pointe de Sable Beach, in the municipality of Lieu, doesn’t look like much from the road: you have to walk a bit to earn it. And that’s precisely what makes it so charming. Far from the noise of cars and the hustle and bustle, you’ll find a shore of fine gravel and small pebbles, bordered by lawns where you can comfortably spread your blanket. At nearly 1000 meters above sea level, the air is crisp, the water is cool, and the panorama of the Jura peaks is magnificent. It’s the perfect place for a simple, nature-filled day without spending anything.

What your children will discover

Your children will love this family-sized beach, where you can enter the water gently. The pebbly shore and grassy area give them space to play, build, splash, and observe the life of the lake. The wild atmosphere is a change from crowded pools: here, it’s the dragonflies, the reflections on the water, and the Jura peaks in the background. Older kids can swim along the shore, while the little ones can stay quietly at the edge. It’s a beautiful way to introduce them to a calm and preserved mountain lake.

What to do there and the atmosphere on site

At Pointe de Sable, people come to slow down. You swim, picnic, bask in the sun, and enjoy the tranquility. Picnic tables and designated barbecue spots allow for an outdoor meal without having to carry anything complicated. The atmosphere is family-friendly and peaceful: no music, no crowds, just the lapping of the lake and the laughter of children. Since the beach is unsupervised and remains in its natural state, it’s important to keep a close eye on the younger ones, but it’s also this simplicity that adds to the pleasure of the place.

Before you go

• Recommended age: from 2 years old, accompanied. Unsupervised beach: parental supervision is essential.
• Duration: half a day to a full day.
• Price: free. Like all the beaches of Lake Joux, access is unrestricted.
• Reservation: none, access is free.
• Stroller/PRM accessibility: difficult, access is only on foot via a path from the parking lot (approx. 10-15 min walk). It’s better to bring a baby carrier for the little ones.
• Transport: free parking at the Esserts-de-Rive area, then a path along the shore. Lieu train station served by regional transport (schedules to be confirmed on the official site).
• What to bring: swimsuits, towels, sunscreen, water shoes (pebbles), water, picnic, and a trash bag (to take back).
• Ideal season: summer, in good weather. At altitude, the water remains cool: the beautiful warm days are the most enjoyable.

Parent tips

• Equip children with water sandals: the pebbly bottom is more comfortable this way.
• The water of Lake Joux remains cool even in summer; aim for really warm days for the little ones to swim.
• Bring everything you need (water, snacks, shade): there is no refreshment stand on site (to be confirmed).
• Arrive early on sunny days: the parking lot and the best shady spots fill up quickly on weekends.
• Respect the natural site and take your trash with you: this is what keeps the place beautiful.

Useful information

• Address: west shore of Lake Joux, Esserts-de-Rive area, 1345 Le Lieu (Vaud).
• Official site: Vallée de Joux Tourisme — myvalleedejoux.ch.
• Hours: free access all year round; swimming recommended in summer (transport schedules to be confirmed on the official site).
• Access: by car to the free parking at Esserts-de-Rive, then approx. 10-15 min walk along the shore path; by train to Lieu station.

Looking for more outings? Find all our activities in Lieu.

Why we recommend it

We love Pointe de Sable because it offers everything you’re looking for in a successful family outing without breaking the bank: free swimming, a preserved natural setting, spaces to play, and a place to picnic. It’s a peaceful interlude in the heart of the Vallée de Joux, appealing to both little ones and parents seeking tranquility.

In two words

A wild and free beach by Lake Joux, in Lieu: swimming, picnicking, and fresh air at 1000 meters above sea level, for a nature day with family.