The best hikes from bus stations around Lac de Barterand
4.4
(355)
2,480
hikers
18
hikes
Hiking around Lac de Barterand offers diverse landscapes, from the tranquil shores of the glacial lake to the adjacent Saint Champ marsh and surrounding vineyards. The region is characterized by wooded sections, views of the Rhône riverbed, and the imposing Grand Colombier mountain. Hikers can explore a mosaic of environments, including areas designated as "Sensitive Natural Areas," supporting varied flora and fauna. Unique sculpted rocks depicting local legends are also found along the northern bank of the lake.
Best bus station hiking trails around Lac de Barterand
- The most popular bus station hiking route is What a bulwark! loop from Virignin, a 5.3 miles (8.5 km) trail that takes about 2 hours 40 minutes to complete, featuring significant elevation gain and views of the surrounding landscape.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Sublime Forets loop from Belley, a moderate 9.2 miles (14.8 km) path. This route leads through extensive wooded sections, offering a serene experience amidst the natural environment.
- Local hikers also love the The ViaRhôna Lodges – Virignin la Balme footbridge loop from Virignin, a 3.7 miles (6.0 km) trail leading through varied terrain near the Rhône, often completed in about 1 hour 30 minutes.
- Hiking around Lac de Barterand is defined by glacial lake shores, diverse marshlands, and wooded hills, with routes offering options for different ability levels.
- The routes in Lac de Barterand are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 300 reviews. More than 2000 hikers have used komoot to explore Lac de Barterand's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
3.0
(1)
9
hikers
14.8km
04:01
200m
200m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
5
hikers
10.6km
03:10
280m
280m
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
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5.0
(1)
3
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
hikers
5.09km
01:18
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(24)
55
hikers
4.74km
01:22
120m
120m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Lac de Barterand
Other adventures around Lac de Barterand
Tips from the Community
Great atmosphere in this charming little village.
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Very nice cyclist bridge over the Rhône. It could become slippery in icy and wet conditions.
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This watermill was in operation for 40 years. It has been restored to its original condition, and its paddle wheel now allows the gears and thus the millstone to rotate. The aroma of walnut and hazelnut oil, which has been pressed here for years, can be smelled throughout the interior.
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The four-kilometer-long canal serves as a natural outlet for the waters of Lake Bourget toward the Rhône, and vice versa when the river is in flood. Over the years, it has been widened, rectified, and cleaned to improve the passage of commercial and passenger ships. In the last century, this was an important trade route.
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a water mill in a pleasant setting
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If camping were possible, it would be a great idea on the bike path.
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Public toilets are located behind the lodges in the parking lot for cars and campers. We find far fewer public toilets on the Via Rhona than on the Atlantic coast (Normandy, Brittany, Velodyssee).
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Great canal to Lac du Bourget, very easy to navigate from Chanaz, narrow path runs parallel, pick-up points Chatillion and Conjux
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many bus station accessible hiking trails are available around Lac de Barterand?
There are 15 hiking trails around Lac de Barterand that are easily accessible from bus stations. These routes offer a variety of experiences, from easy strolls to more moderate excursions, ensuring there's something for every hiker.
What is the best time of year to hike around Lac de Barterand using public transport?
The area around Lac de Barterand is beautiful year-round. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant colors, ideal for hiking. Summer is also popular, especially if you plan to combine your hike with swimming in the lake. Always check local bus schedules, as frequencies might vary seasonally.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes accessible by bus around Lac de Barterand?
Yes, there are several easy routes perfect for families. For instance, the Virignin la Balme footbridge loop from Virignin is an easy 4.6 km trail with minimal elevation gain, offering a pleasant walk suitable for all ages. The region's focus on easy to moderate trails makes it very family-friendly.
Can I find circular hiking routes that start and end at a bus station?
Many of the trails around Lac de Barterand are circular, making them ideal for public transport users. For example, the What a bulwark! loop from Virignin is a moderate 8.5 km circular route that offers diverse scenery and can be accessed from Virignin, a common bus stop.
What kind of natural landscapes can I expect to see on these bus-accessible trails?
The Lac de Barterand area, designated a "Sensitive Natural Area," offers a rich tapestry of landscapes. You'll encounter the serene lake shores, the unique Saint Champ marsh, peaceful wooded sections, and picturesque vineyards. Many trails also provide views of the Rhône riverbed and the imposing Grand Colombier mountain.
Are there any specific points of interest or landmarks along the bus station hiking routes?
Yes, a unique highlight is the presence of sculpted rocks along the northern bank of Lac de Barterand. These artistic installations depict local Bugey legends, adding a cultural dimension to your hike. Additionally, some routes pass through charming wine-growing villages.
What do other hikers say about the bus-accessible trails around Lac de Barterand?
The hiking experiences around Lac de Barterand are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 300 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse landscapes, the tranquility of the lake, and the accessibility of the trails from public transport points.
Are there any moderate difficulty trails accessible by bus for more experienced hikers?
Absolutely. For those seeking a bit more challenge, the Sublime Forets loop from Belley is a moderate 14.8 km route that takes you through beautiful forests and offers a good workout. Another option is the What a bulwark! loop from Virignin, which includes some elevation gain.
Can I find trails that offer views of other lakes besides Lac de Barterand?
Yes, some routes in the broader region offer views of other notable bodies of water. For example, the View of Lac du Bourget loop from Ontex provides stunning vistas of Lac du Bourget, France's largest natural lake, and is accessible by bus.
Are there opportunities for swimming after a hike near a bus stop?
Yes, Lac de Barterand offers supervised swimming during the summer months, making it a perfect spot to cool off after your hike. The lake's accessible shores mean you can often find a swimming spot not far from bus stops that serve the lake perimeter.
Where can I find more information about Lac de Barterand itself?
For more details about Lac de Barterand, including its natural features and activities, you can visit the official tourism website: bugeysud-tourisme.fr.
Are there any trails that follow the ViaRhôna route?
Yes, some bus-accessible trails integrate with or run alongside sections of the ViaRhôna. The The ViaRhôna Lodges – Virignin la Balme footbridge loop from Virignin is an easy 6 km route that specifically highlights this connection, offering pleasant riverside walking.
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