Lélex is a town in Ain, in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, 45 km north-east of Oyonnax (by road) and 38 km north-west of Ferney-Voltaire (also by road). However, as the crow flies, Geneva is only 18 km to the south-east. It is in a Nature Reserve.
Bordering the Jura, the village is located in the Valserine valley, closed to the north by the Dôle massif. The locality has developed at an altitude of around 900 m, but its territory rises to 1720 m.
Inhabited since Gallo-Roman times, the difficult site of access in winter is the possession of Savoy, then returns to France during the Revolution before being integrated for some time into Lake Geneva.
The essentially rural activity (breeding and production of so-called Bleu de Gex cheeses) was supplemented from the 19th century by the establishment of lapidaries (cutters of precious stones), who sold their goods to Switzerland.
Tourism is now the economic vector of the region (a first ski lift was set up before the Second World War) even if three specialized industrial units are located at Lélex (metallic equipment linked to skiing).
The village, which has less than 250 "permanent" inhabitants, is labeled a green resort and belongs to the area of the Monts Jura winter sports resort which covers several municipalities. Its exceptional environment as well as the many sports and leisure activities make it a renowned stopover in summer and popular with families.
Although the first chapel was built in the 14th century, the present church of Saint-Michel dates from the 19th century. It is the main element of the village's built heritage. Built in a neo-Gothic style, the church houses several earlier elements: a Gothic baptistry and two gilded wooden statues of the Virgin and Saint Joseph. New paintings (four colors representing the four seasons) and frescoes where the flora and fauna of the region are distinguished were made in 1997.
In winter, the communal part of the resort of Monts Jura, Lélex offers eight green runs, three blue runs, red runs and four black runs accessible via two new ski lift (gondola, chair lift and ski lifts). These high-altitude tracks are connected to the other slopes of the domain. Package for the ski lifts from 19 euros. Information on +33 4 50 20 90 60.
For lessons in introductory or advanced, contact the antenna Lélex the French ski school +33 4 50 20 90 42. A nursery is provided for the youngest.
On this part of the resort, it is also possible to practice snowshoeing and Nordic skiing. Information on +33 4 50 20 91 43.
In winter always, in the village or at the station of arrival of the telecabin, of the luge of protected luge are in free access.
For the experienced sportsmen, hiking in high mountain protected, in winter, with accompanying. Reservation imperative and information at +33 6 72 15 80 68.
Finally, a skating rink is installed during the Christmas holidays in the multipurpose hall. Information on +33 4 50 20 91 43.
In summer, hikers are at the party via many varying difficulty circuits including ecological resources (flora and fauna) of the Regional Natural Park of Haut-Jura and the nature reserve that covers most of the territory of the commune. An interpretive trail has been specifically designed along the river, "along the Valserine".
For ATV enthusiasts, specific trails and an electric bike rental point have been designed.
It is advisable to learn about the difficulty of the courses and the weather (whether on foot or by bicycle). Documentation and information on +33 4 50 20 91 43.
For routes including the remarkable ecological zones or the natural park sites, please call +33 3 84 34 12 30.
It is also logical that the fishermen find their happiness here (information on +33 4 74 22 38 38).
Tennis courts are available free of charge from April to October next to the motorhome area.
In the middle of March, at the start of the village, La Mont'Thoisey is a race in cross-country skiing or snowshoes proposing two courses. The event is organized by the French Alpine Club of the Haut Jura. For further information, please call +33 6 43 70 46 61.
On 13 July, on the occasion of the national holiday, dancing and fireworks.
On the first Sunday of August, the feast of Dahu (patronal feast) offers a varied program (parade, meals, fun and convivial animations).
On the 15th of August, flea market.
