The best walks and hikes around Issarlès
4.6
(455)
3,729
hikers
118
hikes
Hiking around Issarlès offers diverse trails through unique volcanic landscapes in the Montagne d'Ardèche. The region features the deep blue Lac d'Issarlès, nestled in a maar crater, and the iconic Mont Gerbier de Jonc, known as the source of the Loire River. Hikers encounter varied terrain, including ancient lava flows, volcanic rocks, and forests of Scots pines, beech, and larch. This area provides a range of hiking opportunities from easy lakeside paths to more challenging ascents of volcanic peaks.
Best hiking trails around Issarlès
- The most popular hiking route is Tour of Lac d’Issarlès, a 2.4 miles (3.9 km) trail that takes 1 hour 4 minutes to complete. This easy, shaded path circles the lake, offering tranquil scenery.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Suc de Cherchemuse – Lac d’Issarlès loop from Le Lac-d'Issarlès, a difficult 8.4 miles (13.5 km) path. This route provides panoramic views of the lake and surrounding volcanic peaks.
- Local hikers also love the Lac d’Issarlès loop from Le Lac-d'Issarlès, a 5.3 miles (8.5 km) trail leading through volcanic landscapes and forests, often completed in about 2 hours 23 minutes.
- Hiking around Issarlès is defined by volcanic landscapes, a deep blue lake, and diverse forests. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy lakeside strolls to more demanding ascents.
- The routes in Issarlès are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 400 reviews. More than 3,500 hikers have used komoot to explore Issarlès's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 25, 2026
4.6
(34)
430
hikers
3.91km
01:04
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(11)
88
hikers
13.5km
04:23
410m
410m
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
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4.4
(5)
20
hikers
12.4km
03:39
350m
350m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(4)
10
hikers
19.2km
05:55
540m
540m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
5.0
(3)
9
hikers
4.37km
01:10
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Near the lake, two caves are dug into the cliff. The upper cave served as the lake warden's dwelling until the beginning of the 20th century. Today it is set up as a museum recounting the history of its troglodyte inhabitants. As for the lower cave, it has remained as it is. It is via a perfectly laid out path which, after a 300-meter walk, leads visitors to the famous dwellings. No one remembers the time when these caves were dug. https://www.ardeche-guide.com/patrimoine/grottes-troglodytiques-299828/
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The loop trails are very nice! Small disappointment once at the top not to find a spot where you can enjoy a picnic with a view of the lake :)
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At 1,343 meters above sea level, the Suc de Cherchemuse is an ancient volcano in the Velay region. From its summit, you benefit from a pleasant view of the great juices of the Mézenc massif.
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Very nicely located grotto, you can also go swimming below.
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Stroll around the lake on Sunday July 23, 2023. Very pleasant because it is largely shaded. Provide credit card (no possibility to pay in cash) for paid parking from 01/06 to 30/09, package 3€. Lots of people on the beaches and around.
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Crater lake, 1,000 meters above sea level with a very pleasant beach for swimming. Very calm. Good food options around and public restrooms.
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While jogging around this lake, be aware that it is extremely deep (138 m)! The lake was created by the escape of magma from a chamber below the lake.
3
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As you walk around this lake, be aware that it is extremely deep (138 m)! The lake was created by the escape of magma from a chamber beneath the lake.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Issarlès?
The Issarlès area offers a wide variety of hiking opportunities, with over 110 trails available. These routes cater to all levels, from easy strolls to more challenging ascents through volcanic landscapes.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for families or beginners?
Yes, Issarlès has several easy trails perfect for families and beginners. A popular choice is the Tour of Lac d’Issarlès, an easy, shaded 3.9 km path around the lake that takes about an hour. It's ideal for tranquil walks and spotting local wildlife.
Can I find circular hiking routes around Issarlès?
Many of the trails in Issarlès are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Besides the full loop around Lac d'Issarlès, you can explore routes like the Lac d’Issarlès loop from Le Lac-d'Issarlès, an 8.5 km moderate trail that guides you through volcanic landscapes and forests.
What kind of natural features or landmarks can I expect to see while hiking?
Issarlès is rich in unique natural features due to its volcanic past. You'll encounter the stunning Lac d’Issarlès, a deep blue lake nestled in a maar crater. The region also features ancient lava flows, volcanic rocks, and diverse forests. For panoramic views, consider hiking towards volcanic peaks like Suc de Cherchemuse or Mount Gerbier de Jonc, the source of the Loire River.
Are there any hikes that feature waterfalls?
Yes, the region offers trails that showcase beautiful waterfalls. The 'wild Loire at Issarlès' area, for instance, is known for its scenic waterfalls and impressive basalt cliffs, providing a different natural spectacle during your hike.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Issarlès?
The Montagne d'Ardèche, where Issarlès is located, offers pleasant hiking conditions from spring through autumn. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, while summer is ideal for combining hikes with swimming in Lac d'Issarlès. Autumn offers vibrant foliage. The region's mid-mountain climate means temperatures are generally comfortable for outdoor activities during these seasons.
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails in Issarlès?
Generally, dogs are welcome on hiking trails in the Issarlès area. However, it's always recommended to keep them on a leash, especially in areas with livestock or protected wildlife, and to follow local regulations regarding pet access.
What are the more challenging hiking options for experienced hikers?
For experienced hikers seeking a challenge, the Suc de Cherchemuse – Lac d’Issarlès loop from Le Lac-d'Issarlès is a difficult 13.5 km route with significant elevation gain, offering spectacular panoramic views. Climbing Mont Gerbier de Jonc itself is also a short but intense ascent requiring good physical fitness.
Are there options for longer day hikes in the Issarlès area?
Yes, for those looking for longer excursions, routes like the Lake Issarlès – Lac d’Issarlès loop from Le Béage offer a substantial 19.2 km journey through the diverse volcanic terrain. These longer trails provide an immersive experience of the region's natural beauty.
What makes the landscape around Issarlès unique for hiking?
The landscape around Issarlès is unique due to its volcanic origins, featuring a stunning deep blue lake within France's deepest maar crater, ancient lava flows, and volcanic peaks known as 'sucs.' This geological history creates a varied terrain with a mix of Scots pines, beech, and larch trees, offering diverse scenery and rich biodiversity.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Issarlès?
The hiking trails in Issarlès are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 400 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the stunning volcanic landscapes, the tranquility of Lac d'Issarlès, and the variety of routes available for different skill levels.
Can I combine hiking with other activities at Lac d'Issarlès?
Absolutely! Lac d'Issarlès is not just for hiking. During warmer months, you can enjoy swimming in the lake, fishing for various trout species, or engaging in water activities like canoeing, paddleboarding, and pedal boating. The calm atmosphere makes it perfect for a multi-activity outdoor adventure.
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