The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around Lac De Bourdouze

There are 6 dog-friendly hiking trails around Lac De Bourdouze featured in this guide. All of them are rated as moderate difficulty, offering a good challenge for you and your canine companion.

The terrain around Lac De Bourdouze is diverse, featuring high plateaus, picturesque plains, and panoramic views of the Sancy Massif and Cézallier. You can expect paths through forests, alongside streams, and some sections may have tree roots or be muddy, especially near the peat bog areas. Always keep your dog on a leash and stay on marked paths to protect the delicate ecosystem.

Yes, many of the trails are circular, allowing for varied scenery without retracing your steps. For example, the Puy de Sancy – Crêtes du Sancy loop from Super Besse is a great option for a circular hike with your dog, offering stunning views.

The dog-friendly walks in this guide vary in length, generally ranging from approximately 7.6 km to 12.3 km. Depending on your pace and your dog's energy, these can take anywhere from 3 to 4.5 hours to complete. For instance, the Bike park Super-Besse – Puy de la Perdix loop from Super Besse is one of the shorter options at about 7.6 km.

The trails offer breathtaking panoramic vistas of the prominent Sancy Massif and the Cézallier region. You'll also experience the unique glacial landscape and the extensive peat bog that gives Lac de Bourdouze its name. Keep an eye out for diverse flora and fauna, as the area is a protected Natura 2000 site.

While all routes in this guide are rated as moderate, the region does offer simpler options. For a less strenuous outing, consider a shorter walk directly from the parking area around the lake, which can be a good 1-hour round trip. Always assess your dog's fitness level before embarking on a longer hike.

Spring, summer, and autumn are generally ideal for hiking around Lac De Bourdouze. The peat bog areas can be muddy, especially after rain, so drier periods are often more pleasant. During winter, some trails might be covered in snow, requiring appropriate gear and caution for both you and your dog.

Given the varied terrain and potential for muddy sections, sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are recommended. Dress in layers suitable for changing mountain weather. Always bring plenty of water for both yourself and your dog, along with waste bags. A leash is essential, as the area is a protected natural site.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.52 stars from over 1500 ratings. Reviewers often praise the stunning panoramic views, the tranquility of the natural environment, and the well-maintained paths that make for an enjoyable experience with their dogs.

As Lac De Bourdouze is a classified and protected natural site integrated into the Natura 2000 network, it's crucial to keep your dog on a leash at all times to protect the local wildlife and delicate ecosystems. No specific permits are generally required for hiking, but always adhere to local signage and regulations.

While the immediate area around Lac De Bourdouze is focused on natural preservation, the nearby charming medieval village of Besse-et-Saint-Anastaise offers amenities such as cafes and restaurants. It's advisable to check with individual establishments regarding their dog-friendly policies before visiting.