The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Bois De Sizay Et Bois De Bard
4.3
(173)
1,272
hikers
15
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails in Bois De Sizay Et Bois De Bard traverse an undulating forest environment, primarily composed of deciduous trees like oaks, chestnuts, and pines, offering varied scenery. The terrain includes picturesque ridges and serene valley floors, with views of the Vercors massif and the Herbasse valley. The Herbasse river meanders through the region, and Lac de Champos adds a significant aquatic feature to the landscape. The communal hardwood forest of Saint-Donat features well-maintained paths suitable for various…
Last updated: July 6, 2026
4.0
(12)
78
hikers
13.8km
03:53
280m
280m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
28
hikers
15.3km
04:25
370m
380m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
4.0
(3)
36
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
hikers
2.10km
00:33
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
hikers
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
The FRANCE VOYAGE website reports on the origin of the current place name with Saint DONATUS: "With the advent of Christianity, Saint-Donat bore the name Jovincieu or Jovenzieux. In 732, during the invasion of the Saracens, Corbus, the bishop of Grenoble, fled to Jovenzieux and brought with him the relics of Saint Donatus, who died in the 6th century, on his way to Sisteron – hence the name Saint-Donat." However, the collegiate church located in the town has a different patron saint than the place name; here, the choice was made for the two prince of the apostles, SAINTS PIERRE et PAUL, whose common feast day is celebrated on June 29th in the calendar.
0
0
Just follow the app…it will take you up steps that make you think you are in someone’s garden but just keep climbing 😊
0
0
Very beautiful cloister with sculptures of musicians
0
0
Lake Champos is an ideal place during the summer season for swimming. Here you will find supervised swimming, something to have a drink at the water's edge and water activities such as pedal boats, paddles and slides. Very popular with the inhabitants of the region, the attendance can be important during the weekends of July-August.
0
0
Located in the town of Saint-Donat-sur-l'Herbasse, the collegiate church of Saint-Pierre and Saint-Paul dates from 894. A text mentions a church dedicated to Saint Mary or Saint Donat in the Vicus Jovinziacus. Originally Romanesque in style, it has an imposing porch bell tower, the first level of which dates from the 13th century. In 1940, the nave was completely rebuilt. It has been listed as a historical monument since 1906 and has a magnificent cloister.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are there in Bois De Sizay Et Bois De Bard?
There are 15 family-friendly hiking trails available in Bois De Sizay Et Bois De Bard. These routes range from easy to moderate, ensuring options for various ages and fitness levels within the family.
What makes the trails in Bois De Sizay Et Bois De Bard suitable for families?
The trails are known for their well-maintained paths and clear signage, making navigation straightforward. They offer diverse scenery, from undulating forests to valley floors, with many routes featuring manageable distances and gentle elevation changes. The presence of Lac de Champos also adds a fun element for families.
Are there any easy, short walks suitable for young children or toddlers?
Yes, there are several easy options perfect for younger children. For instance, the Lac de Champos loop from Charmes-sur-l'Herbasse is a short 2.1 km (1.3 miles) trail that winds through wooded areas near the lake, offering a pleasant and manageable walk.
Can we find circular routes for family hikes?
Absolutely. Many of the family-friendly trails in Bois De Sizay Et Bois De Bard are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Popular examples include the Lac de Champos loop from Château de Collonges or the Lac de Champos loop from Saint-Donat-sur-l'Herbasse, both offering scenic circuits around the lake.
Are dogs allowed on the family-friendly trails?
Generally, dogs are welcome on trails in Bois De Sizay Et Bois De Bard, but it's always recommended to keep them on a leash, especially in forested areas or near wildlife. Please ensure you clean up after your pet to maintain the natural beauty of the area for everyone.
What unique activities can families enjoy besides hiking?
Beyond traditional hiking, families can experience the unique "Rando Croquis" trail in Bois de Sizay. This 2.5 km trail features stations designed to encourage drawing and sketching in nature, making it an engaging activity for all ages. Additionally, Lac de Champos offers a leisure base with various family activities and opportunities for swimming.
What kind of scenery can we expect on these family trails?
The trails wind through diverse landscapes, including undulating deciduous forests of oaks, chestnuts, and pines, which offer varied scenery throughout the seasons. You'll also encounter tranquil valley floors, the meandering Herbasse river, and expansive views of the majestic Vercors massif and the verdant Herbasse valley from various vantage points.
Is there parking available for families visiting the trails?
Yes, the area is well-equipped for visitors. There is a car park and information boards located at the southern entrance of the communal forest, making it convenient for families arriving by car.
What is the best time of year for family hiking in this region?
The Bois De Sizay Et Bois De Bard region is beautiful throughout the year, with each season offering a different charm. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant colors, while summer is ideal for combining hikes with swimming at Lac de Champos. Even in winter, the well-maintained paths can be enjoyable for a crisp walk.
Are there places to eat or stay near the family-friendly trails?
The region is close to towns like Saint-Donat-sur-l'Herbasse, where you can find restaurants and accommodation options. Lac de Champos also has amenities, including a leisure base, which might offer refreshment options during peak season.
Can we swim in Lac de Champos after a hike?
Yes, Lac de Champos is a popular spot for swimming, especially after a refreshing hike. It features a leisure base that provides facilities for visitors to enjoy the lake.
What do other families say about hiking here?
The komoot community highly rates the family-friendly trails in Bois De Sizay Et Bois De Bard, with an average score of 4.26 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet woodlands, the well-marked paths, and the beautiful views of the Vercors massif and the Herbasse valley, making it a favorite for outdoor family adventures.
Most popular routes in Bois De Sizay Et Bois De Bard
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
