4.6
(741)
3,816
hikers
4
hikes
Bus station hiking trails around Barrage De Rabodanges are set within the "Suisse Normande" region, characterized by a wild and preserved hilly landscape. The area features forests surrounding a large artificial lake, over 6 kilometers long and up to 250 meters wide, formed by the Barrage de Rabodanges on the Orne River. This valley boasts an exceptional 40-meter drop, contributing to the diverse terrain for hikers.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
3.3
(3)
21
hikers
13.7km
03:47
240m
240m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
3.69km
01:00
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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3
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
2
hikers
7.18km
01:57
100m
100m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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An artificial pool situated in a wild and beautiful landscape, surrounded by forests. Supervised swimming is possible.
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Beautiful 15th century manor, worth a detour
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Small village in the heart of Suisse Normande born from the merger of two municipalities. It is located on a hillside overlooking a loop of the Orne river. The granite buttresses on which the old houses are built serve as their base. There is a beautiful church and a small pond nearby, dining options, a hotel and a campsite.
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Large lake in the Orne department, located in Suisse Normande. Artificial lake, but very well preserved and landscaped, you can walk there, with even the presence of a restaurant boat during the holidays!
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Superb place, calm, on the borders of the Suisse Normande.
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15th century manor farm
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The history of Lake Rabodanges begins in 1919, when a first study was carried out by the Norman Society of Studies for the development of the Orne basin and its tributaries. The bed of the Orne presents, over four kilometers, from the entrance to the exit of the Gorges de St-Aubert, an exceptional gradient that cannot be found anywhere else in Normandy: of the order of 40 meters . In addition, the narrowness of the valley, at the entrance of these gorges, joined to a splendid natural basin developing upstream, enabled engineers to plan the ambitious work of a dam and a reservoir of important water. The Rabodanges basin allows storage of 6 million m3 of water, over 95 hectares, retained by a dam 160 meters long and 17 meters high. Source: http://www.office-tourisme-putanges.com
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The history of Lake Rabodanges begins in 1919, the date when a first study was established by the Société Normande d’études pour l’development of the Orne basin and its tributaries. The bed of the Orne presents, over four kilometers, from the entrance to the exit of the Gorges de St-Aubert, an exceptional slope that is not encountered anywhere else in Normandy: of the order of 40 meters . Furthermore, the narrowness of the valley at the entrance to these gorges, combined with a splendid natural basin developing upstream, allowed engineers to plan the ambitious work of a dam and a reservoir. significant water. The Rabodanges basin allows storage of 6 million m3 of water, over 95 hectares, retained by a dam 160 meters long and 17 meters high. Source: http://www.office-tourisme-putanges.com
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There are 3 hiking routes around Barrage De Rabodanges that are easily accessible from local bus stations. These trails offer convenient starting points for exploring the beautiful Suisse Normande region.
All the bus-accessible hikes around Barrage De Rabodanges are classified as easy. They are suitable for beginners and those looking for a relaxed walk, featuring gentle elevation changes and well-defined paths.
Yes, all the bus-accessible routes are circular, allowing you to start and end your hike at the same point, often near a bus stop. Examples include the Putanges-Pont-Écrepin loop from Putanges-le-Lac and the Le Vieux-Putanges – Putanges-Pont-Écrepin loop.
The trails offer diverse scenery, characterized by the wild and preserved hilly landscape of 'Suisse Normande'. You'll encounter forests, picturesque views of the large artificial lake created by the Barrage de Rabodanges, and the unique 40-meter drop of the Orne River valley. The lake itself is over 6 kilometers long, providing a tranquil environment.
Given their easy difficulty rating and circular nature, these trails are generally well-suited for families. The relatively short distances, such as the Putanges-Pont-Écrepin loop (3.7 km), make them manageable for children.
While specific regulations can vary, generally, dogs are welcome on trails in the Barrage De Rabodanges area, especially if kept on a leash. It's always advisable to check local signage for any specific restrictions, particularly in nature reserve areas or near private property.
The area is beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn offer particularly pleasant hiking conditions with mild temperatures and vibrant foliage. Summer is also popular, especially if you plan to combine hiking with water activities on the lake. Be aware that some trails might experience overgrown vegetation at certain times of the year.
Yes, the lake and surrounding areas are home to diverse wildlife. Keep an eye out for various bird species like ducks, grebes, gray herons, and coots. If you're lucky, you might even spot otters near the water.
The komoot community highly rates the Barrage De Rabodanges area, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquil environment, the scenic views of the lake and dam, and the accessibility of the trails for a relaxing outdoor experience.
The town of Putanges-Pont-Écrepin, which serves as a common starting point for several routes like the Le Vieux-Putanges – Putanges-Pont-Écrepin loop, offers cafes and restaurants where you can refresh before or after your hike.
Beyond the natural beauty, the Barrage de Rabodanges itself is a significant landmark. You can visit a belvedere to view the 160-meter long, 17-meter high dam and its installations. The nearby town of Putanges-Pont-Écrepin also offers charming local architecture.


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