The best walks and hikes around Pinols
4.5
(159)
775
hikers
91
hikes
Hiking around Pinols offers access to diverse natural landscapes within the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of south-central France. The area is characterized by a volcanic and mountainous massif, featuring extensive pine forests and varied terrain. Notable natural features include Mont Mouchet and the Gorges de l'Allier, providing a backdrop for outdoor activities. The region presents a range of trails, from gentle forest paths to more challenging routes with significant ascents.
Best hiking trails around Pinols
- The most popular hiking route is Mont…
Last updated: June 29, 2026
4.0
(1)
15
hikers
8.64km
02:27
190m
190m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
15
hikers
9.42km
02:56
380m
380m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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3.0
(2)
6
hikers
8.09km
02:20
210m
210m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
8.19km
02:24
230m
230m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
4
hikers
2.86km
00:49
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Historical wealth - Magnificent landscapes - Slightly difficult hike, good physical condition required.
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Mont Mouchet is a peak that is part of the Margeride massif. There, you'll find very rocky areas and other more wooded areas, composed of beech and fir forests. As a result, the landscapes are fabulous. Mont Mouchet is also a site classified as a High Place of the Resistance in Auvergne. From here, you can enjoy a superb 360° panorama.
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The Mont Mouchet Museum and Memorial pay tribute to Lucien and Pierrot, who, in 1944, joined one of France's five maquis. They committed to preventing the German army stationed to the south from advancing toward Normandy. Through a tour of authentic objects, documents, photos, and videos, you will discover the historical events that brought Mont Mouchet to life.
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The 18th-century story of a beast that kills humans at night, localized in Auvers and handed down in local history, has endured through the ages and found its way into the fantasy series "Teen Wolf." The story surrounding the heroine, Marie-Jeanne Valet, is described in detail on an online fan site. If you're interested, see =>> https://www.myfanbase.de/teen-wolf/charakterbeschreibungen/?pid=23497
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Very nice hike, I recommend starting in the opposite direction in order to finish by going down the scree rather than going up... otherwise the hike is mainly on shaded paths...
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The 18th-century story of a beast that kills humans at night, localized in Auvers and handed down in local history, has endured through the ages and found its way into the fantasy series "Teen Wolf." The story surrounding the heroine, Marie-Jeanne Valet, is described in detail on an online fan site. If you're interested, see =>> https://www.myfanbase.de/teen-wolf/charakterbeschreibungen/?pid=23497
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Mont Mouchet, like many other isolated and wild places in France (whether for example the Vercors plateau or the Albion plateau) served as a maquis for resistance fighters during the Second World War. It culminates at 1,497 meters in the Margeride massif. It offers very beautiful views of the unspoiled landscape that surrounds it. It borders three very sparsely populated departments of France: Haute-Loire, Cantal and Lozère.
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Mont Mouchet, at 1,497 meters in the heart of Margeride, is a high place of the Resistance during the 2nd World War. It was notably the scene in June 1944 of the Battle of Mont Mouchet. A memorial and a museum pay homage to the Resistance fighters of this maquis.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Pinols?
Pinols offers a wide variety of hiking opportunities, with nearly 100 trails listed on komoot. These range from easy forest walks to more challenging ascents, catering to different skill levels.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or families in Pinols?
Yes, Pinols has 21 easy trails, perfect for beginners or families. These routes often traverse the extensive pine forests, providing shaded and enjoyable walks. An example is the Summit of Mont Mouchet – Mont Mouchet loop from Mont Mouchet, which is an easy 4.0 km trail.
What kind of terrain can I expect on hikes around Pinols?
The region around Pinols is characterized by a diverse volcanic and mountainous massif. You can expect varied terrain, including extensive pine forests, some paths with hilly sections, and routes that lead to significant ascents. The Gorges de l'Allier nearby also offer wild and preserved landscapes.
Are there any circular walks available in Pinols?
Yes, many of the trails around Pinols are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For instance, the Volmadet loop from Volmadet is a moderate 9.4 km circular path that takes you through characteristic pine forests.
What natural attractions can I see while hiking near Pinols?
Hikers near Pinols can explore several notable natural features. The area is close to Mont Mouchet, a significant natural site. You can also find impressive waterfalls like the Cascade de la Beaume and Cascade du Déroc, and the serene Lac du Bouchet, recognized with a Blue Flag label, is also within reach.
Are there any challenging hikes for experienced trekkers?
Absolutely. For more experienced hikers, Pinols offers 14 difficult routes with significant ascents. These trails provide a greater challenge and often lead to high mountain passes, offering expansive views of the volcanic landscape.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Pinols?
The trails in Pinols are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 130 reviews. Hikers often praise the refreshing air, especially in summer, and the beautiful landscape visible through openings in the extensive pine forests.
Can I find trails that pass by historical or cultural landmarks?
While the region is primarily known for its natural beauty, some routes may offer glimpses of historical sites. For example, the area around Mont Mouchet has historical significance. You might also find trails that lead near charming settlements like Lavoûte-Chilhac or the Medieval village of Chilhac, which are nearby attractions.
Are there opportunities for activities other than hiking in the Pinols area?
Yes, the Gorges de l'Allier, close to Pinols, offer wild and preserved landscapes perfect for activities beyond hiking, such as horseback riding or canoeing. The region's diverse terrain also makes it suitable for various outdoor pursuits.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Pinols?
The region around Pinols offers refreshing air, especially in summer, making it a pleasant time for hiking. The extensive pine forests provide shade, which can be particularly enjoyable during warmer months. Spring and autumn also offer beautiful scenery with milder temperatures.
Are there any trails that offer panoramic views?
Given the volcanic and mountainous massif surrounding Pinols, many trails, especially those with significant ascents, offer expansive views. The Summit of Mont Mouchet is a key natural site known for its scenic vistas and opportunities for exploration.
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