The best walks and hikes around Balbins
4.7
(86)
489
hikers
77
hikes
Hiking around Balbins offers access to rural landscapes in the Isère department of France. The area features a network of trails that traverse gentle terrain, often incorporating water features such as ponds and historical sites. These routes provide opportunities to explore the local countryside, suitable for various hiking preferences.
Best hiking trails around Balbins
- The most popular hiking route is Étang du Marais loop from Ornacieux, a 5.6 miles (9.0 km) trail that takes 2 hours 23 minutes to…
Last updated: July 1, 2026
4.5
(4)
16
hikers
9.15km
02:25
80m
80m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
7
hikers
6.29km
01:55
220m
220m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
4.5
(4)
13
hikers
9.20km
02:30
130m
130m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
11
hikers
8.24km
02:23
220m
220m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(5)
8
hikers
13.8km
03:58
320m
320m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
And Matto, it looks beautifully simple; I really like churches like this.
1
0
This Saint-André church, which is partially listed as a historical monument, is a successful blend of Romanesque and Gothic art.
6
0
The Marais Pond, a former gravel pit, is now a large carp pond with numerous benches around the lake for recreation. The pond contains a herd of approximately 300 carp, weighing up to 16 kg. The lake contains mirror carp, koi carp, common carp, and small sturgeon.
6
0
In 1869, the Marist Brothers purchased the castle and its grounds. They raised the body of the central building by one floor. The castle was then acquired by the city in 1906. In 1914, it became a military hospital and from 1940 to 1960, a modern college. The castle now houses a music school and meeting rooms. Many areas are vacant. The Ministry and the public agency for cultural cooperation (aida) conducted a feasibility study for the establishment of a European Cultural Exchange Center in the building. If you take a walk in the park in the afternoon, you can hear the musicians practicing.
6
0
The old market hall, located on a large octagonal square and partially adjacent to a small building, consists of a single volume with a wooden frame vault. The building has a roof made of round tiles decorated with dormer windows. To the west of the building is a fountain facing the east side of the La Côte-Saint-André town hall. Measuring 76 meters long and approximately 29 meters wide, this hall is one of the largest from the French Middle Ages. The market hall was listed as a historic monument on April 23, 1925.
2
0
The Great Park is just a stone's throw from the city center. It features centuries-old trees, a duck pond, a skate park, and even a children's playground. It's a place that invites you to relax.
2
0
The Hector Berlioz Museum is located at the birthplace of the great romantic musician on the Côte Saint-André and commemorates his life and work.
2
0
At guests' disposal: reception rooms for 20 to 170 people, accommodation for up to 102 beds and a shared kitchen, a 500 m2 terrace equipped with tables, arbors and parasols with an exceptional view of the Bièvre plain and a large park of approximately 4000 m2 for an outdoor reception.
9
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Balbins?
There are over 75 hiking routes available around Balbins, catering to various preferences. These include 21 easy trails, 50 moderate routes, and 8 more challenging options for experienced hikers.
Are there any circular walks near Balbins?
Yes, Balbins offers several circular walks. A popular choice is the Étang du Marais loop from Ornacieux, a moderate 5.6-mile (9.0 km) trail that circles a pond. Another option is the Étang du Marais loop from Faramans, which is a 6.1-mile (9.8 km) moderate route.
What kind of terrain can I expect on hikes around Balbins?
Hiking around Balbins is characterized by rural paths and gentle hills. The trails often incorporate water features like ponds and lead through local countryside, offering a mix of easy to moderate terrain.
Are there any historical landmarks or interesting places to see along the trails?
Yes, several routes pass by historical sites. For instance, the Saint-André Church – Château Louis XI loop from La Côte-Saint-André connects landmarks like the Château Louis XI and the Saint-André Church. Other notable attractions in the area include the Notre-Dame-du-Mont Chapel and Château de Montgontier.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Balbins?
The routes in Balbins are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 85 reviews. Hikers often praise the varied terrain and the opportunity to explore the local countryside.
Are there family-friendly hiking options in Balbins?
Yes, Balbins offers several easy routes suitable for families. The trails generally feature gentle terrain, making them accessible for various age groups. An example of an easy path is the Saint-André Church – Château Louis XI loop from La Côte-Saint-André, which is 4.0 miles (6.5 km) long.
What is the typical elevation gain on hikes in Balbins?
The elevation gain on hikes around Balbins varies. Many routes feature gentle ascents, such as the Étang du Marais loop from Ornacieux with an elevation gain of about 268 feet (82 m). More challenging routes, like the Château Louis XI – Saint-André Church loop from La Côte-Saint-André, can have an elevation gain of around 824 feet (251 m).
How long do hikes around Balbins usually take?
Hike durations in Balbins vary depending on the route and your pace. For example, the Étang du Marais loop from Ornacieux typically takes about 2 hours and 23 minutes, while the longer Château Louis XI – Saint-André Church loop from La Côte-Saint-André can take around 3 hours and 2 minutes.
Are there any challenging hiking trails in the Balbins area?
While many trails are easy to moderate, there are some more challenging options. The guide lists 8 difficult routes for those seeking a more strenuous experience. These routes will typically feature greater distances and elevation gains.
What are some popular starting points for hikes near Balbins?
Popular starting points for hikes include Ornacieux, as seen with the Étang du Marais loop from Ornacieux, and La Côte-Saint-André, which is the starting point for routes like the Saint-André Church – Château Louis XI loop from La Côte-Saint-André.
Can I find routes that feature water bodies like ponds?
Yes, the Balbins area is known for incorporating water features into its trails. The Étang du Marais loop from Ornacieux is a prime example, offering a pleasant walk around a pond.
Most popular attractions around Balbins
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
