4.5
(244)
1,433
hikers
32
hikes
Hiking around Tence, located in the Haute-Loire department, offers diverse natural features for outdoor activities. The region is characterized by a network of river valleys, including the Lignon and La Sérigoule, and elevated areas such as the Pic du Lizieux and the Meygal Forest massif. Natural lakes like Lac de Lavalette and volcanic cones contribute to the unique geological interest and varied terrain.
Last updated: May 12, 2026
4.5
(6)
30
hikers
25.4km
06:59
420m
420m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(7)
23
hikers
20.3km
05:37
370m
370m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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3.5
(2)
11
hikers
11.0km
03:03
200m
200m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
hikers
6.18km
01:42
100m
100m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
8
hikers
4.51km
01:15
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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very good route for the tour of the lake or even for training for a first triathlon 🚴♂️
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Beautiful reservoir, the level is low currently because repairs are underway until 2026, but otherwise, it's a little Canada!
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This small town in Haut-Lignon offers a gentle and peaceful atmosphere. Located in the heart of a unique natural environment, the town is built on the banks of du Lignon. It is a true haven of peace.
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The Lavalette dam is 507 meters long and 60 meters high. This hydraulic dam was built in 1949 upstream of the Lignon river and retains the waters of Lake Lavalette, known for its water sports center.
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Lake Lavalette is fed by the waters of the Lignon and covers 220 hectares at an altitude of 820 meters. The nautical leisure center offers plenty of activities such as catamaran rides, dinghy rides, windsurfing, and also equipment rental: kayaks, pedal boats, stand-up paddleboards, etc.
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The Chemin du Mounas goes up from the Papeterie mill. You are here in the middle of the fields. The path is ideal for mountain biking or gravel.
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This dam lake is accessible for swimming and sailing. At the leisure base, you can also find a beach to get in the water but also some amenities such as toilets and something to fill your water bottles.
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Departure for the tour of the dam next to this is a refreshment bar and sanitary facilities as well as boat rentals
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Tence offers a wide variety of hiking experiences, with over 25 routes available. These range from easy strolls to more challenging treks, catering to different skill levels and preferences.
The region around Tence is rich in natural beauty. You'll find picturesque river valleys, including the Lignon and La Sérigoule, as well as natural lakes like Bathelane and the larger Lake Lavalette. Elevated areas such as the Pic du Lizieux and the expansive Meygal Forest massif provide diverse terrain and panoramic views. The wider Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region also features volcanic cones, adding to the unique geological interest.
Yes, Tence is recognized as a 'Famille Plus Nature' destination, offering several family-friendly trails. An easy option is the Tence – Tence loop from Tence, which is about 6.2 km long and takes around 2 hours to complete. The 'Balade le long du Lignon' is also a noted easy, family-friendly loop.
Many of the trails around Tence are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. For example, the moderate Beautiful view of Tence – Tence loop from Tence is an 11 km circular route that takes about 3 hours. The region's network of paths along rivers and around lakes often forms convenient loops.
Tence is a great hiking destination throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery with changing foliage. Summer is also popular, especially for combining hikes with activities at the nearby lakes. Given its altitude of 850 meters, conditions can vary, so always check local weather forecasts before heading out.
The trails around Tence cater to all levels. There are 13 easy routes, perfect for leisurely walks, and 13 moderate trails for those seeking a bit more challenge. For experienced hikers, there are 3 difficult routes, such as the 20.3 km La Papeterie Mill – Beautiful view of Tence loop from Trifoulou, which offers expansive views of the area.
Yes, Tence is located near significant long-distance hiking routes. The famous GR65 and GR430 (Chemin de Saint-Régis) pass through or close to the area, providing excellent opportunities for multi-hour or multi-day excursions for those looking for a more extensive adventure.
The komoot community highly rates the hiking experiences in Tence, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 200 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse terrain, from river valleys to elevated forests, and the stunning panoramic views, particularly from spots like the Pic du Lizieux. The well-maintained paths and the natural beauty of the lakes are also frequently highlighted.
Absolutely. The region offers several notable points of interest. The Himalayan footbridge at Gorges du Lignon is a unique attraction. You can also visit the Croix de Couvet for historical interest or explore the Via fluvia in the forest. The summit of Pic du Lizieux also provides expansive views of the surrounding landscape.
Yes, Tence is surrounded by several beautiful lakes. The natural site of Bathelane lake is a short walk from the village. The larger Lac de Lavalette offers an extensive circuit for hiking and mountain biking, and its wild environment is perfect for enjoying nature. Lac de Devesset, though a few kilometers away, provides opportunities for swimming and other leisure activities, which can be combined with a morning hike.
Certainly. The Beautiful view of Tence – La Papeterie Mill loop from Trifoulou is a moderate 10.7 km route that provides excellent vistas of the Tence area. It takes approximately 3 hours to complete and features an elevation gain of around 198 meters.


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