Easy hikes and walks around Bassin De Réaltor
4.5
(397)
2,862
hikers
179
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Bassin De Réaltor traverse a landscape characterized by an artificial lake, low hills, and Mediterranean scrubland. The Bassin De Réaltor, a 70-hectare reservoir, is nestled within the gentle elevations of the Arbois plateau, which ranges from 152 to 166 meters in altitude. The surrounding area features a mix of pine and green oak forests, alongside extensive garrigue, providing diverse natural environments. This region is recognized for its ecological value, serving as a refuge for migratory birds and supporting varied aquatic flora.
Best easy hiking trails around Bassin De Réaltor
- The most popular easy hiking route is Under the bamboo – Réaltor Reservoir loop from Domaine de l'Arbois, a 3.0 miles (4.8 km) trail that takes 1 hour 15 minutes to complete. This route offers views of the reservoir and surrounding vegetation.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Arbois – Embodied: Luminous Prism loop from Parking de la Tour d'Arbois, an easy 3.0 miles (4.9 km) path. This trail leads through the low hills of the Arbois plateau, featuring gentle elevation changes.
- Local hikers also love the The Infernet spring loop from Soullagi, a 2.5 miles (4.1 km) trail leading through varied Provençal landscapes, often completed in about 1 hour 7 minutes.
- Hiking around Bassin De Réaltor is defined by its artificial lake, low hills, and Mediterranean garrigues. The network offers options for different ability levels, with a focus on accessible paths.
- The routes in Bassin De Réaltor are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from more than 300 reviews. More than 2,500 hikers have used komoot to explore Bassin De Réaltor's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
3.5
(2)
6
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
5.99km
01:41
120m
120m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.0
(1)
18
hikers
4.06km
01:07
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
6.66km
01:48
90m
90m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
26
hikers
1.95km
00:31
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Description of the hike: follow the path from the parking lot to reach the source. The start is under a large metal portico bearing the inscription "Chemin de l'Infernet". The walk is part of the GR13. It is marked with red and yellow lines. A very simple little walk, no equipment necessary. Very few places for parking!
1
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This reservoir was created during the construction of the Marseille canal in the 19th century to supply the city. It is a beautiful nature reserve in the heart of the hills of the Arbois plateau. The site is a very rich ornithological reserve, and you can observe many species such as coots, swans, cormorants and egrets.
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Planted on the banks of the Réaltor basin, these bamboos create a tunnel through which you can speed along. In places, however, the vegetation allows you to glimpse the body of water.
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A small, easily accessible natural setting, surrounded by pretty trails and pleasant tracks, both for walking and mountain biking or gravel bikes. The Réaltor basin offers a beautiful diversity in terms of bird life: coots, grebes, swans, cormorants, egrets... and more during migration periods. Note that the banks on the north-east side (Calas side) are open to the public, but the south-west part (TGV station side), belonging to the Société des Eaux de Marseille, is fenced and inaccessible.
1
0
The source of the Infernet seems to be a natural underground water source when it is in fact the result of an artificial watercourse, the Réaltor basin built in 1869. The source finally stops when it meets the pond of Bolmon.
4
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Small nature reserve with hiking trail right on the water.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available around Bassin De Réaltor?
There are over 75 easy hiking trails around Bassin De Réaltor, offering a variety of experiences through the region's woods, garrigues, and along the reservoir. In total, the area features over 175 hiking routes for various skill levels.
Are there any circular routes suitable for easy hikes?
Yes, many easy trails around Bassin De Réaltor are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Under the bamboo – Réaltor Reservoir loop from Domaine de l'Arbois is an easy 4.8 km loop that takes about 1 hour 15 minutes.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see on easy trails?
Easy trails around Bassin De Réaltor offer views of the artificial lake, which is the largest body of water in the eastern Bouches-du-Rhône. You'll also traverse low hills of the Arbois plateau, and experience Mediterranean shrubland (garrigues) and woods. The area is known for its ecological value, serving as a refuge for migratory birds.
Are the easy hiking trails around Bassin De Réaltor suitable for families?
Yes, the accessible paths and gentle elevation changes make many trails ideal for family outings. Routes like The Infernet spring loop from Soullagi, at just over 4 km, are perfect for shorter walks with children.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails?
While specific regulations for dogs vary by trail, generally, dogs are welcome on many trails in the Bassin De Réaltor area, provided they are kept on a leash. It's always best to check local signage for any specific restrictions.
What is the best time of year to hike the easy trails?
The Bassin De Réaltor area is pleasant for hiking in spring and autumn when temperatures are mild. Summer can be hot, so early mornings or late afternoons are preferable. Winter offers cooler, crisp conditions, but always check weather forecasts.
Are there any viewpoints or specific landmarks along the easy routes?
The main landmark is the Bassin De Réaltor itself, an artificial lake created in the 19th century. Trails often provide scenic views of the reservoir and the surrounding Arbois plateau. While there are no specific 'viewpoints' listed, the natural beauty of the lake and its diverse flora and fauna are the main attractions.
What do other hikers say about the easy trails in Bassin De Réaltor?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 300 reviews. Hikers often praise the tranquil atmosphere, the diverse landscapes of woods and garrigues, and the well-maintained, accessible paths suitable for all fitness levels.
Is there parking available near the trailheads for easy access?
Yes, many popular trailheads, such as the starting point for the Arbois – Embodied: Luminous Prism loop from Parking de la Tour d'Arbois, offer dedicated parking facilities, making it convenient to access the easy routes.
How long do the easy hikes typically take?
Easy hikes around Bassin De Réaltor vary in length and duration. Many popular routes, like the Arbois – Embodied: Luminous Prism loop from Parking de la Tour d'Arbois (4.9 km), can be completed in about 1 hour 20 minutes, making them perfect for a leisurely outing.
Are there any longer easy routes for a more extended walk?
For a slightly longer easy walk, consider routes like the Rocher de l’Arbois loop from Aérodrome d'Aix-les-Milles. This 6.7 km trail offers a pleasant, extended experience through the region's gentle terrain, typically taking around 1 hour 48 minutes.
Is swimming allowed in Bassin De Réaltor?
No, swimming is prohibited in Bassin De Réaltor. The reservoir is an artificial lake created as part of the Canal de Marseille to clarify water and supply Marseille, so its primary function is for water supply, not recreation.
Most popular routes around Bassin De Réaltor
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