The best walks and hikes around Les Brunels
4.3
(535)
3,779
hikers
113
hikes
Hiking around Les Brunels offers diverse landscapes at the foot of the Montagne Noire, featuring a blend of natural beauty and historical engineering. The region is characterized by scenic lakes such as Lac des Cammazes and Lac de Saint-Ferréol, dense forests like Forêt de l'Aiguille des Cammazes, and the foothills of the Montagne Noire. Hikers can explore historical water management structures, including the Vauban Vault and the Rigole de la Montagne Noire, which contribute to the area's unique appeal.
Best…
Last updated: August 28, 2026
4.6
(40)
210
hikers
17.2km
04:36
200m
200m
Hike a moderate 10.7-mile loop around Lac des Cammazes, featuring lake views, dense forests, and historic Vauban architecture.
4.6
(51)
672
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.5
(17)
82
hikers
7.71km
02:06
120m
120m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.9
(9)
56
hikers
14.1km
04:02
320m
320m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(13)
73
hikers
14.0km
03:58
310m
310m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The Cammazes breakthrough, also known as the Vauban vault or Cammazes tunnel, is a 122-meter-long and 3-meter-wide vaulted tunnel, built between 1686 and 1688, which allows the waters of the mountain ditch to reach the Saint-Ferréol reservoir. An integral part of the immense Canal du Midi structure, it has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1996 and listed as a historic monument in 1997[1]. It was designed by Vauban in a memorandum of March 5, 1686, to channel the waters of the Montagne Noire ditch from the Sor valley to the Laudot valley, under "the crest of the Escammase mountain". Pierre-Paul Riquet, who had briefly considered this project, died in 1680. (Wikipedia)
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Exploring the beautiful Lac de Saint-Ferréol near Revel, you will discover an oasis of tranquility. You can hike along the shores of the lake and admire the views of the surrounding hills.
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Superb and impressive, one of the 6 (main) lakes of the Montagne Noire, do not miss following the forest track which runs along its right bank.
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The way Riquet thinks about his work around the Canal du Midi remains in harmony and in no way destroys the natural beauty of the Black Mountain.
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At the inauguration of the Canal du Midi (then called the Royal Canal of Languedoc), the channel of the Montagne Noire flowed into the Sor to be captured again by the channel of the plain at Pont-Crouzet. However, in order to improve water management and in particular the supply of the Saint-Ferréol reservoir, Vauban launched in 1686 a program of digging a tunnel at the level of the Cammazes so that the channel could join the Laudot and thus the Saint-Ferréol basin.
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The Montagne Noire channel allows part of the water from the streams flowing naturally towards the Mediterranean side of the Canal du Midi via the Fresquel to be channeled towards the oceanic slope. It starts from the Alzeau intake to the Vauban vault, a tunnel pierced so that the channel can join the Laudot and thus the Saint-Ferréol basin then the Plaine channel.
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Water management in the Montagne Noire dates back to the 17th century with the catchments created to supply the Canal du Midi. The Cammazes reservoir, filled with water in 1958 following the construction of the Cammazes dam, perpetuates the tradition and makes it possible to supply water (drinking and irrigation) to an entire region.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Les Brunels?
Les Brunels offers a wide variety of hiking experiences, with over 110 routes available. These range from gentle lakeside strolls to more challenging forest paths, ensuring options for all fitness levels.
What is the overall difficulty of hiking in Les Brunels?
The trails around Les Brunels cater to a broad range of abilities. You'll find approximately 33 easy routes, 54 moderate routes, and 26 more difficult options, allowing you to choose an adventure that suits your experience level.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while hiking in Les Brunels?
Hiking in Les Brunels immerses you in diverse landscapes at the foot of the Montagne Noire. Expect a blend of dense forests, particularly beech, oak, and chestnut, alongside picturesque lakes such as Lac de Saint-Ferréol and Lac des Cammazes. You'll also encounter panoramic views of the Lauragais plain and, on clear days, even the Pyrenees in the distance. The region also features unique karstic landscapes and historical water management structures.
Are there any easy or short walks suitable for beginners or families?
Absolutely. For an easy and pleasant experience, consider the Lac de Saint-Ferréol – Lac de Saint-Ferréol loop from Bassin de Saint-Ferréol. This 4.0-mile (6.4 km) path offers lovely walks along the lake shores with gentle elevation changes, perfect for a relaxed outing with family.
Are there circular hiking routes in Les Brunels?
Yes, many of the trails in Les Brunels are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular moderate option is the Lac des Cammazes Loop, which covers 10.7 miles (17.2 km) and offers beautiful lake views and forest sections.
What historical or natural landmarks can I see along the trails?
The region is rich in both natural and historical points of interest. You can explore the engineering marvel of the Vauban Vault, part of the Canal du Midi's water supply system. Natural highlights include the serene Lac de Saint-Ferréol and the picturesque Mougnès Waterfall. Many trails also lead through the ancient Forêt de l'Aiguille des Cammazes, with traces of historical charcoal production.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Les Brunels?
The komoot community highly rates the hiking experience in Les Brunels, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 400 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the scenic lakes, the tranquility of the dense forests, and the unique blend of natural beauty with historical water management structures like the Vauban Vault.
Are there any moderate hikes that combine natural beauty with historical sites?
Certainly. The Vauban Vault – The Rigole of the Montagne Noire loop from Les Cammazes is a moderate 4.7-mile (7.5 km) trail that perfectly blends natural beauty with historical significance. It guides you through the area's unique water management structures and scenic landscapes.
When is the best time of year to go hiking in Les Brunels?
Les Brunels offers excellent hiking opportunities throughout the year. The Montagne Noire's forests provide welcome shade during warmer months, while the lakes are perfect for summer activities. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage, making them ideal for exploring the diverse trails.
Are there any longer, more challenging moderate routes available?
For a longer moderate challenge, consider the Calvetout Trail – Lac de Saint-Ferréol loop from Bassin de Saint-Ferréol. This route spans 8.7 miles (14.0 km) and features more significant elevation changes, offering rewarding views and a good workout.
Are there opportunities for wild swimming near the hiking trails?
Yes, the region's lakes provide excellent opportunities for swimming. A portion of Lac de Saint-Ferréol lies within Les Brunels itself, offering designated areas for swimming and other water activities, making it a refreshing stop after a hike.
What kind of forest environments can I explore?
The Montagne Noire, which borders Les Brunels, is characterized by extensive forests of beech, oak, and chestnut trees. Trails like the Lac des Cammazes – Cammazes Dam loop from Les Cammazes will lead you through these shaded woodlands, offering a cool and immersive natural experience.
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