The best MTB trails around Barrage Des Settons

The trails around Barrage Des Settons, located within the Morvan Regional Nature Park, offer a diverse landscape. You'll encounter extensive forests of fir and beech trees, granite hills, and the sinuous shores of Lac des Settons. This provides a mix of forest tracks, lakeside paths, and steeper sections, suitable for various mountain biking experiences.

Yes, Barrage Des Settons offers several easy mountain bike trails. For example, the Settons Lake – Settons Lake Dam loop from Lac des Settons is an easy 13.2-mile (21.3 km) trail that takes about 1 hour 31 minutes to complete, leading through pleasant lakeside scenery. Another easy option is the Settons Lake – Lake of Settons loop from Lac des Settons, which is 14.4 miles (23.1 km) long.

Absolutely. For experienced mountain bikers seeking a challenge, there are several difficult routes. The Lake of Settons – Lakeside boardwalk loop from Montsauche-les-Settons is a demanding 36.6-mile (58.9 km) trail with significant elevation gain, offering extensive lakeside views and varied terrain. Another challenging option is the Gouloux Waterfall – Lakeside boardwalk loop from Montsauche-les-Settons, a 29.3-mile (47.1 km) path featuring forest tracks and passing by the Gouloux Waterfall.

The trails often pass by notable attractions and natural features. You can see the historic Settons Lake Dam, a 19th-century engineering marvel with its unique pyramid shape. Many routes also feature the distinctive Wooden Footbridges on the Lake, which offer superb panoramic views. The Gouloux Waterfall – Lakeside boardwalk loop specifically takes you past the picturesque Gouloux Waterfall.

Yes, many of the mountain bike trails around Barrage Des Settons are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Popular circular routes include the Settons Lake – Settons Lake Dam loop and the Settons Lake Dam – Settons Lake loop, which is a moderate 19.1-mile (30.7 km) ride.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 40 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, ranging from easy lakeside paths to challenging forest tracks, and the beautiful natural scenery within the Morvan Regional Nature Park. The well-maintained paths and the combination of water and forest environments are frequently highlighted.

Yes, the area around Barrage Des Settons is well-equipped for visitors. You'll find various cafes, restaurants, and accommodations, particularly in villages like Montsauche-les-Settons and around the lake itself, where you can refuel after your ride.

Yes, Barrage Des Settons offers several easy and moderate trails that are suitable for families. The generally well-maintained paths and the option for shorter, less strenuous lakeside loops make it a good destination for family outings. The area also provides other activities like swimming and water sports, which can complement a biking trip.

The spring, summer, and early autumn months generally offer the best conditions for mountain biking in Barrage Des Settons. During these seasons, the weather is typically mild, and the trails are dry and well-maintained. The Morvan Regional Nature Park is particularly beautiful with lush greenery in spring and vibrant colors in autumn.

Absolutely! Barrage Des Settons is known as the 'most active lake' and offers a wide array of activities. You can enjoy various water sports like sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. There are also numerous hiking trails, swimming beaches (including the 'Pavillon bleu' labeled Plage de la presqu'île des Settons), and opportunities for fishing or exploring the dam itself.

While the Morvan Regional Nature Park generally welcomes dogs, it's always recommended to keep them on a leash, especially in protected areas or near wildlife. Specific trail regulations for dogs can vary, so it's best to check local signage or with the park authority for the most current information regarding specific routes.