4.3
(57)
265
hikers
16
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Etang De Baye are characterized by a landscape of artificial lakes, including Étang de Baye and Étang de Vaux, which are connected to the historic Canal du Nivernais. The region is recognized as a Sensitive Natural Area, featuring diverse ecosystems and wooded paths. Trails typically offer low elevation gain, making them accessible for various skill levels.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
4.7
(19)
102
hikers
4.80km
01:14
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
5
hikers
4.50km
01:08
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Sign up for free
2
hikers
5.99km
01:32
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
2.29km
00:35
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
hikers
4.92km
01:19
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. 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
The Baye pond has an equipped beach where you can take a break and swim.
0
0
This reservoir was created in the 19th century and is classified as a “Sensitive Natural Area”. An interpretive trail allows you to go around the pond.
0
0
This reservoir was created in the 19th century and is classified as a "Sensitive natural area". An interpretation trail allows you to go around the pond.
2
1
Pretty countryside between the Etang du Merle, and the Bay et Vaux pond in the Nièvre. There is little difference in altitude, very little traffic, which allows you to make the most of the landscapes. A stop along the Etang de Bay et Vaux for a nice picnic at the water's edge and you're ready to have a good time in all simplicity.
0
0
The Baye pond has an equipped beach where you can take a break and swim.
1
1
The Etang De Baye area offers a good selection of easy hiking trails. Out of 14 total routes, 3 are specifically classified as easy, making them accessible for various skill levels. These trails are characterized by low elevation gain and serene landscapes.
Easy hikes around Etang De Baye feature mostly flat terrain with very low elevation gain. You'll find paths leading through tranquil lake shores, diverse ecosystems, and refreshing wooded areas. The landscape is defined by artificial lakes like Étang de Baye and Étang de Vaux, connected to the historic Canal du Nivernais.
Yes, several easy routes are circular. For instance, the L'étang de Baye — loop from La Collancelle is an easy 4.8 km circular trail offering views of the lake. Another option is the shorter Baye Pond loop from Baye, which is 2.3 km and provides a direct experience of the pond's tranquil shores.
Easy hikes in the area offer magnificent panoramic views over the lakes, diverse ecosystems, and wooded paths. You can explore the shores of Étang de Baye and Étang de Vaux, and discover the historic Canal du Nivernais. The region is a Sensitive Natural Area, so you might spot various bird species like the Grey Heron and Kingfisher, as well as dragonflies, especially along interpretive trails.
Absolutely. The easy hiking trails around Etang De Baye are well-suited for families due to their low elevation gain and generally short distances. The interpretive trails, such as "Le sentier du Héron Cendré" or "Le sentier de la Libellule," offer educational panels that can engage children, making for an enjoyable family outing.
While the region is generally welcoming to outdoor activities, specific rules for dogs on trails can vary. It's always recommended to keep your dog on a leash, especially in sensitive natural areas where wildlife is abundant, and to respect local signage regarding pet access.
The diverse ecosystems and tranquil waters of Etang De Baye can be explored year-round. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with vibrant flora or changing leaves. Summer is also suitable, though it can be warmer, and winter provides a different, serene atmosphere, especially along the wooded paths.
Yes, if you're looking for a quick and easy stroll, the Baye Pond loop from Baye is an excellent choice. It's only 2.3 km and can be completed in about 35 minutes, offering a direct experience of the pond's tranquil shores.
The routes in Etang De Baye are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 70 reviews. Hikers often praise the serene lake shores, diverse ecosystems, and well-maintained wooded paths, highlighting the area's peaceful and accessible nature for easy walks.
Yes, parking is generally available near popular starting points for trails around Etang De Baye, especially in areas like La Collancelle or Baye, which serve as common access points for the lake loops. Specific parking details can often be found on individual route pages.
Yes, the region is known for its interpretive trails that guide visitors through the local flora, fauna, and the lake's food chain. Examples include "Le sentier du Héron Cendré" (Grey Heron footpath), "Le sentier du Martin-pêcheur" (Kingfisher footpath), and "Le sentier de la Libellule" (Dragonfly footpath), often equipped with educational panels and observation points.
Absolutely. Beyond hiking, the lakes are popular for water sports and fishing. You can also explore the historic Canal du Nivernais, with some circuits allowing discovery of its tunnels, adding a historical and engineering interest to your outdoor experience.
Among the easy routes, the Étang du Merle – Wonderful view loop from Crux-la-Ville is one of the longer options, covering approximately 6 km. It offers a wonderful view and is still classified as easy, making it a good choice for a slightly longer, yet gentle, outing.


Browse the best Hikes in other regions.