The best walks and hikes around Barrage Du Bourdon

The trails around Barrage Du Bourdon offer a mix of experiences, primarily featuring expansive lake views and paths winding through serene forest settings. You'll find routes that traverse along the lake's edge, through wooded areas, and past the notable dam structure. The area provides options for various ability levels, from easier loops to more challenging routes.

Yes, Barrage Du Bourdon has several easy routes. For a pleasant and accessible walk, consider the Petit Tour du Lac du Bourdon. This moderate 3.7-mile (6.0 km) trail offers continuous lake views and paths through the surrounding forest, typically taking about 1 hour 34 minutes to complete.

The most prominent natural feature is the large artificial lake itself, Lac du Bourdon, with its expansive views. You'll also encounter surrounding forest paths, sandy beaches, and the impressive dam structure, which is 17.5 meters high and 337 meters long. The dam area also features cascades and an artificial grotto. Smaller ponds and feeding streams contribute to the scenic charm.

Yes, the historic Château de Saint-Fargeau is a significant attraction nearby. This castle, with origins dating back to the 11th century, can be incorporated into longer hikes, such as the Lac du Bourdon – Château de Saint-Fargeau loop from Lac du Bourdon. The dam itself also has historical elements, including an old guard's house with rustic stone pillars.

Many of the trails around Barrage Du Bourdon are designed as loops, offering circular routes that bring you back to your starting point. An example is the Lac du Bourdon Beach – Lac du Bourdon loop from Lac du Bourdon, a moderate 6.2-mile (9.9 km) path featuring varied scenery along the lake's edge and through wooded areas.

The hiking routes in Barrage Du Bourdon are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average score of 4.4 stars from over 50 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse scenery, the continuous lake views, and the well-maintained paths through the surrounding forests.

Yes, the area is well-suited for families. Many trails are relatively flat and offer picturesque scenery without being overly strenuous. The presence of sandy beaches and picnic areas around the lake also makes it an enjoyable destination for a family outing. Shorter loops like the Petit Tour du Lac du Bourdon are ideal for families.

Absolutely. Beyond hiking, Lac du Bourdon is a hub for various outdoor pursuits. You can enjoy cycling, mountain biking, canoeing, pedal boating, sailing, and windsurfing. Supervised swimming is available during July and August, and there are facilities for camping and picnics. An acrobatic course (accrobranche) is also available for those seeking more adventurous challenges.

The area is enjoyable throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage, making them ideal for hiking. Summer is also popular, especially if you plan to combine hiking with swimming or other water activities, as supervised swimming is available in July and August. Even in winter, the landscape can be serene, though some facilities might be limited.

Yes, Barrage Du Bourdon is equipped with dedicated picnic areas where you can relax and enjoy a meal amidst nature. There are also restaurants available in the vicinity, providing options for dining after your hike.

Hiking times vary depending on the specific route and your pace. Shorter loops, like the Petit Tour du Lac du Bourdon, can be completed in about 1 hour 34 minutes. Longer routes, such as the Lac du Bourdon – Château de Saint-Fargeau loop from Lac du Bourdon, might take around 3 hours 35 minutes.