The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Lac de Sainte-Croix

There are nearly 30 family-friendly hiking trails around Lac de Sainte-Croix, with 13 of them classified as easy, making them ideal for families with children. These routes offer a wonderful way to explore the stunning turquoise waters and surrounding landscapes.

For an easy and scenic option, consider the Lake Sainte-Croix – Galetas Bridge loop. This 4.3 km route offers beautiful views and is relatively flat. Another great choice is the Bauduen – View of Lac de Sainte-Croix loop, which is also around 4.3 km and provides lovely vistas of the lake from the charming village of Bauduen.

Yes, many of the family-friendly trails around Lac de Sainte-Croix are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. The Lake Sainte-Croix – Galetas Bridge loop and the Bauduen – View of Lac de Sainte-Croix loop are both excellent circular options, perfect for a relaxed family outing.

The terrain on family-friendly hikes around Lac de Sainte-Croix typically varies from well-maintained paths through wooded hills and Mediterranean forests to trails along the lake's shores. You can expect some gentle inclines, but most easy routes avoid significant elevation changes, making them manageable for children. Some paths might be rocky, especially closer to the Gorges du Verdon.

Along the trails, you'll encounter breathtaking views of the turquoise Lac de Sainte-Croix and the dramatic entrance to the Gorges du Verdon. Notable sights include the Sainte-Croix bridge, which offers stunning vistas, and various points with rocky trails with lake views. You might also find a public fitness trail under oak trees directly by the lake, perfect for a break.

Yes, many trails offer easily accessible viewpoints. The area around Pont du Galetas, for example, provides spectacular views of the Gorges du Verdon and the lake. The Bauduen – View of Lac de Sainte-Croix loop is specifically designed to showcase panoramic lake views from the village.

Yes, the charming villages surrounding Lac de Sainte-Croix, such as Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Bauduen, Les Salles-sur-Verdon, and Aiguines, offer various amenities including cafes, restaurants, and accommodation. Many trails start or pass through these villages, making it convenient to find refreshments before or after your hike.

The best time for family hiking is generally spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October). During these periods, the weather is pleasant, temperatures are mild, and the natural scenery, including potential lavender fields in spring/early summer, is at its most beautiful. Summer can be very hot, so early mornings or late afternoons are recommended if hiking in July or August.

While many trails in the Verdon Regional Natural Park are dog-friendly, it's always best to check specific regulations for each route, especially within protected areas. Generally, dogs should be kept on a leash to protect local wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all hikers.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 1,200 ratings. Reviewers often praise the stunning turquoise waters of the lake, the dramatic landscapes of the Gorges du Verdon, and the diverse range of trails suitable for various fitness levels. The tranquility of the combustion engine-free lake is also frequently highlighted.

Absolutely! Lac de Sainte-Croix is renowned for its clear, turquoise waters and is a fantastic spot for swimming. Many trails lead to or pass by beaches and coves, such as Chabassole Beach, where families can enjoy a refreshing dip after their hike. The lake is a combustion engine-free zone, ensuring a peaceful environment for water activities.