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France
Auvergne Rhône Alpes
Nantua

Lac de Nantua

Easy hikes and walks around Lac de Nantua

4.4

(415)

3,142

hikers

87

hikes

Hiking around Lac de Nantua offers diverse terrain within the southern foothills of the Jura Mountains. The lake, of glacial origin, is framed by towering limestone cliffs, providing a picturesque setting for trails. The surrounding Haut-Bugey region features a mountainous environment with forests, combes, and plateaus. This protected natural site ensures a rich biodiversity and varied landscapes for exploration.

Best easy hiking trails around Lac de Nantua

  • The most popular easy hiking route is Lake Nantua – Lake Nantua loop from Port, a 4.2 miles (6.8 km) trail that takes 1 hour 48 minutes to complete. This route offers continuous views of the lake and its surrounding cliffs.
  • Another top favourite among local hikers is Small waterfall and stream loop from Port, an easy 3.8 miles (6.1 km) path. This trail explores natural water features, including a small waterfall and stream.
  • Local hikers also love the View of the Lake – Lake Nantua loop from Port, a 4.6 miles (7.5 km) trail leading through varied terrain with lake views, often completed in about 1 hour 56 minutes.
  • Hiking around Lac de Nantua is defined by glacial lakes, limestone cliffs, and dense forests. The network offers options for different ability levels, with a focus on easy hiking trails.
  • The routes in Lac de Nantua are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.38 stars from over 300 reviews. More than 2,300 hikers have used komoot to explore Lac de Nantua's varied terrain.

Last updated: May 19, 2026

4.6

(50)

385

hikers

#1.

Lake Nantua – Lake Nantua loop from Port

6.79km

01:48

70m

70m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Tips from the Community

Nicolas Vergnaud
May 11, 2026, Lac de Nantua

The Lac de Nantua is a superb body of water of 141 hectares. In the heart of the Jura, it offers an ideal setting for practicing a multitude of sports. It is even possible to swim in its waters.

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Lucie
August 27, 2025, Lac de Nantua

Beautiful, simple, easy walk; lots of traffic noise on the "road" section, a bit of a shame, but the color of the water is magical

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1

0

Unfortunately I was unlucky with the weather, but even as I drove past the place looked very nice, lots of grass and a place to swim.

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Super family hike 😁

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2

0

Beautiful lake for swimming

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Beautiful path, probably busier when the weather is nice. If I read it correctly, the small road should be closed on weekends.

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3

0

Impressive rock above Mantua

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oester
May 14, 2024, Lac de Nantua

Nice bike tour along the lake

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many easy hiking trails are available around Lac de Nantua?

There are 26 easy hiking trails around Lac de Nantua, offering a variety of scenic routes suitable for different preferences. These trails are generally well-maintained and provide excellent opportunities to explore the region's natural beauty.

Are there family-friendly hiking options in the area?

Yes, Lac de Nantua is an excellent destination for family-friendly hikes. Many of the easy trails are suitable for all ages, offering gentle terrain and beautiful scenery. The secure itinerary around the lake, 80% reserved for pedestrians and cyclists, is a great option for families to enjoy the exceptional natural setting together.

Can I find circular hiking routes around Lac de Nantua?

Absolutely. Many of the easy trails around Lac de Nantua are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular option is the Lake Nantua – Lake Nantua loop from Port, which offers continuous views of the lake and its surrounding cliffs.

What kind of views can I expect on the easy trails?

The easy trails around Lac de Nantua offer stunning and varied views. You can expect picturesque vistas of the lake itself, framed by towering limestone cliffs. Trails often lead through dense forests and offer glimpses of the mountainous surroundings of the Haut-Bugey region. The View of the Lake – Lake Nantua loop from Port is specifically designed to highlight these scenic perspectives.

Are there any trails that feature waterfalls?

Yes, for those interested in natural water features, the Small waterfall and stream loop from Port is an easy trail that explores a small waterfall and stream, providing a refreshing experience amidst the natural landscape.

What is the best time of year to go hiking in Lac de Nantua?

While beautiful year-round, autumn is particularly recommended for hiking around Lac de Nantua. The lake's bright colors, combined with the shifting mountain shadows, create a spectacular backdrop. The region's varying water colors, from sapphire blue to emerald green, are also a captivating sight, especially on sunny days.

Are dogs allowed on the easy hiking trails?

Many easy hiking trails around Lac de Nantua are suitable for dogs, provided they are kept on a leash. As Lac de Nantua is a protected natural site, it's always advisable to check local signage for any specific restrictions or guidelines regarding pets to ensure the preservation of the area's biodiversity.

What makes Lac de Nantua a unique hiking destination?

Lac de Nantua is unique due to its glacial origin, dramatically framed by towering limestone cliffs, and its captivating color changes. As a protected natural site within the Jura Mountains, it offers a rich biodiversity and diverse landscapes, including forests, combes, and plateaus, providing a picturesque and varied hiking experience.

How long do easy hikes around Lac de Nantua typically take?

Easy hikes around Lac de Nantua vary in length and duration. For example, the Lake Nantua – Lake Nantua loop from Port, which is 4.2 miles (6.8 km), typically takes about 1 hour 48 minutes. Shorter options like the Lake Nantua – Lake Nantua loop from Nantua, at 2 miles (3.2 km), can be completed in under an hour.

What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Lac de Nantua?

The trails in Lac de Nantua are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.38 stars from over 300 reviews. Hikers often praise the continuous lake views, the diverse terrain, and the well-maintained paths that make exploring this protected natural site a rewarding experience.

Are there any specific viewpoints accessible via easy trails?

Yes, the Belvédère de la Colonne is an accessible viewpoint that provides a beautiful perspective over Lac de Nantua, the town, and its viaduct. It's a popular spot for a short, family-friendly outing with rewarding panoramic views.

Are there places to eat or drink near the hiking routes?

The town of Nantua, located directly on the lake, offers various amenities including cafes and restaurants where you can refresh yourself before or after your hike. Many routes, such as those starting from Port, are conveniently located near these facilities.

Most popular routes around Lac de Nantua

Hikes from bus stations around Lac de Nantua

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