The best walks and hikes around Bort-Les-Orgues
4.5
(196)
1,449
hikers
21
hikes
Hiking around Bort-Les-Orgues offers diverse terrain within the Dordogne Valley, situated at the borders of Corrèze and Cantal. The region is characterized by unique geological formations, including the basalt columns of the Orgues de Bort, and the expansive Lac de Bort-les-Orgues. Trails often provide views of the Dordogne Gorges and traverse forested areas.
Best hiking trails around Bort-Les-Orgues
- The most popular hiking route is Tour of the Organs Trail, a 5.6 miles (9.0 km) trail that takes about 3 hours to complete. This route provides direct access to the basaltic columns and offers panoramic views.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Val Castle and Orgues de Bort Loop, a moderate 8.9 miles (14.3 km) path. This trail features views of the Château de Val and the surrounding reservoir.
- Local hikers also love the The Organs – View over Bort-les-Orgues loop from Bort-les-Orgues, a 5.5 miles (8.8 km) trail leading through the Orgues de Bort, often completed in about 2 hours 55 minutes.
- Hiking around Bort-Les-Orgues is defined by basalt columns, the Dordogne Valley, and the Lac de Bort-les-Orgues. The network offers options for easy, moderate, and difficult ability levels.
- The routes in Bort-Les-Orgues are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 200 reviews. More than 1600 hikers have used komoot to explore Bort-Les-Orgues's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
4.3
(6)
63
hikers
9.04km
02:59
380m
380m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.4
(5)
26
hikers
14.3km
04:06
320m
310m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.3
(26)
252
hikers
8.84km
02:54
390m
390m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.8
(4)
26
hikers
14.7km
04:01
220m
220m
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
5.0
(2)
16
hikers
16.5km
04:48
410m
410m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Beautiful castle, close for the siesta
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nice picnic place
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The castle, which once dominated the Dordogne valley from a rocky outcrop, has stood since 1952 on a headland that juts out into the Barrage de Bort-les-Orgues reservoir. The original character of the castle can only be guessed at when the water level is low. The multi-storey building is surrounded by five towers of roughly the same thickness and one thinner one, each with overhangs and conical roofs. The individual floors are connected by a spiral staircase in the vestibule. The inner courtyard was originally roofless. The first floor consists of three large rooms with decorated fireplaces from the mid-19th century and various furniture. An art exhibition with works by painters, mostly from the region, takes place every year on the second floor. The artistically crafted roof trusses of the towers can be seen from the battlement on the top floor. Source: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schloss_Val
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Wikipedia has information about the dam: FR: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barrage_de_Bort-les-Orgues DE: https://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barrage_de_Bort-les-Orgues
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The municipality of Bort-les-Orgues has around 2500 inhabitants and is located in the Dordogne valley. Bort is the name of a ford with a steep slope. The name les Orgues (the organ pipes) is given by a striking rock formation above the town.[
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The Bort dam is a structure 120 meters high and 390 meters long, straddling the municipalities of Bort and Lanobre, and creating a reservoir of more than 10 km2. Built between 1942 and 1952, it was then a veritable concrete juggernaut and today it remains one of the largest dams in France (and still the third in mainland France if we look at the quantity of water retained by a concrete construction). It is also the first and largest reservoir in the hydroelectric system of the Dordogne valley.
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You can hike here, especially in the surrounding forests.
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The Bort dam is a structure 120m high and 390m long, straddling the municipalities of Bort and Lanobre, and creating a reservoir of more than 10 km2. Built between 1942 and 1952, it was then a veritable behemoth of concrete and it remains today one of the largest dams in France (and even still the third largest in mainland France if we look at the quantity of water retained by a construction of concrete). It is also the first and largest reservoir of the hydroelectric system in the Dordogne valley.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Bort-les-Orgues?
There are over 20 hiking routes documented around Bort-les-Orgues, catering to various skill levels. The komoot community has explored more than 20 of these trails, with options ranging from easy walks to more challenging treks.
What makes hiking in Bort-les-Orgues unique?
Hiking in Bort-les-Orgues offers a distinctive blend of natural features. The region is defined by the impressive basalt columns of the Orgues de Bort, the expansive Lac de Bort-les-Orgues, and scenic views of the Dordogne Valley and Gorges. Trails often traverse forested areas and provide panoramic viewpoints over these unique landscapes.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Bort-les-Orgues?
The routes in Bort-les-Orgues are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 230 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the diverse terrain, the stunning views of the Orgues de Bort and Lac de Bort-les-Orgues, and the well-maintained paths that make exploring the region enjoyable.
Are there hiking trails suitable for beginners or families in Bort-les-Orgues?
Yes, Bort-les-Orgues offers several easy trails perfect for beginners or families. While most routes are moderate, there are options that provide gentle walks with beautiful scenery, allowing everyone to enjoy the natural environment. These trails often feature accessible paths and less significant elevation changes.
Are there more challenging hikes for experienced trekkers?
For experienced trekkers seeking a challenge, Bort-les-Orgues has several difficult routes. For example, the Couzan Castle loop from La Saule is a demanding 14.7 km trail with notable elevation changes, offering a rewarding experience for those looking for a more strenuous adventure.
Can I find circular hiking routes in the area?
Yes, many of the hiking trails around Bort-les-Orgues are circular, allowing you to start and end your journey in the same location. A popular option is View over Bort-les-Orgues loop from Bort-les-Orgues, a moderate 14.7 km loop that offers diverse scenery.
Where can I see the famous Orgues de Bort while hiking?
The Orgues de Bort, impressive basalt columns, are a central feature of the region. You can experience them directly on the Tour of the Organs Trail, a 9 km route that provides direct access to these unique geological formations and offers panoramic views of the Massif Central and the surrounding plateaus.
Are there trails that offer views of the Château de Val or the lake?
Absolutely. The Val Castle and Orgues de Bort Loop is a moderate 14.3 km hike that provides excellent views of the elegant 15th-century Château de Val, which stands serenely at the water's edge of Lac de Bort-les-Orgues, reflecting in the lake.
Is it possible to hike to a waterfall in Bort-les-Orgues?
Yes, the region features the beautiful Saut de la Saule Waterfall. This natural point of interest is located in a canyon carved by the Rhue river, a tributary of the Dordogne, and can be reached via hiking trails, offering a refreshing stop during your outdoor adventure.
What other natural landmarks or viewpoints can I discover on a hike?
Beyond the Orgues de Bort, hikers can discover several other notable landmarks. The Bort-les-Orgues Dam and its expansive lake offer impressive views, particularly from the Saint-Nazaire viewpoint. You can also find various scenic overlooks, such as View over Bort-les-Orgues, providing sweeping vistas of the Dordogne Valley.
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails in Bort-les-Orgues?
Many trails in the Bort-les-Orgues region are dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy your hike with your canine companion. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash, especially in areas with wildlife or near livestock, and to check specific trail regulations before you go.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Bort-les-Orgues?
The best time to go hiking in Bort-les-Orgues is generally from spring through autumn. During these seasons, the weather is pleasant, and the natural landscapes are vibrant. Spring brings blooming flora, while autumn offers beautiful fall foliage. Summer is also popular, especially for combining hiking with water activities on Lac de Bort-les-Orgues.
Are there any specific cultural or historical sites to see while hiking?
Yes, the region blends natural beauty with historical interest. The most prominent is the Val Castle, a magnificent 15th-century fortress that now sits dramatically on the lake. Many trails offer views of this castle, and it hosts art exhibitions during the season, providing a cultural highlight to your hike.
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