The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Lac de Paladru
4.4
(533)
3,207
hikers
23
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Lac de Paladru are characterized by the lake's distinctive clear, turquoise waters, set amidst a backdrop of verdant hills and forests in the Isère department of France. As a glacial lake, it is the fifth-largest natural lake in France, with surrounding hills reaching altitudes of up to 800 meters. The terrain offers a mix of lakeside paths, woodlands, and open areas, including sensitive natural areas like the Feydelière and Véronnière marshes.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Lac de Paladru
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is On the shores of Lac de Palaru — loop from Charavines, an 8.5 miles (13.6 km) trail that takes 3 hours 30 minutes to complete. This path follows the lake's edge, providing continuous views of its clear waters.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Tour du Lac de Paladru — loop from Charavines, a difficult 10.8 miles (17.4 km) path. This comprehensive loop offers varied landscapes and takes approximately 5 hours to complete.
- Local hikers also love the Les Hauts du Lac de Paladru Trail, a 9.7 miles (15.7 km) trail leading through the hills surrounding the lake, often completed in about 4 hours 30 minutes.
- Hiking around Lac de Paladru is defined by the blue waters of the lake, diverse terrain of surrounding hills, and accessible marshlands. The network offers options for different ability levels, including more than 6 easy family friendly hiking trails.
- The routes in Lac de Paladru are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 460 reviews. More than 2800 hikers have used komoot to explore Lac de Paladru's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
4.5
(15)
123
hikers
17.4km
05:04
450m
450m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2.5
(14)
95
hikers
13.6km
03:30
60m
60m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.4
(7)
42
hikers
19.2km
05:37
530m
530m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.7
(3)
48
hikers
15.7km
04:28
350m
350m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(9)
51
hikers
5.63km
01:44
190m
190m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Lac de Paladru
Tips from the Community
Lake Paladru is very popular in the summer, especially on weekends. Swimming is possible; there's a small, well-equipped beach.
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This is a classic bike ride around Grenoble, easy and suitable for the whole family.
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Located at the northern end of Lake Paladru, this wetland is fed by the Courbon stream. It is a true extension of the lake, rich in biodiversity and very pleasant.
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A tourist attraction in this area is Lake Paladru, which stretches from the village of the same name in the north to Charavines in the south. If you walk around the lake from a distance rather than on the paths directly along the shore, the hills offer some very beautiful views of the landscape. But not only that: on the outskirts of Bilieu – on the eastern shore of the lake – we pass a small sacred monument: a simple wayside cross made of two massive wooden beams (without a body or INRI inscription), where the effects of wind and weather are already visible.
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A tourist attraction in this area is Lake Paladru, which stretches from the village of the same name in the north to Charavines in the south. If you walk around the lake from a distance rather than on the paths directly along the shore, the hills offer some very beautiful views of the landscape. But not only that: on the outskirts of Bilieu – on the eastern shore of the lake – we pass a small sacred monument: a simple wayside cross made of two massive wooden beams (without a body or INRI inscription), which already shows the wear and tear of wind and weather.
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Here we encounter three stone cubes stacked on top of each other, each smaller than the one below it. The gray cubes each have a white field in the center of their sides, with a cross carved into it, painted blue and standing out against the gray/white background. This construction forms the basis for the present small sacred monument: above it rises a radiant gold figure of the Madonna. From this prominent position, the Virgin Mary – venerated in France almost always under the title "Notre-Dame" ("Our Lady") – gazes far into the country, and has done so for more than 120 years. @Rainer N. has already explained the date and reason for its construction in his short post.
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The abbey basilica was rebuilt starting around 1490 and completed in 1510 by Bernardino Zaccagni. The famous artist Correggio left his mark on this church. He created five frescoes there, including the lunette with Saint John and the Eagle (1520), which is considered the first to be created. The frescoes, the dome depicting the Ascension of Christ, the decoration of the drum and pendants, and the frieze of images that extends around the entire interior perimeter are all artistic treasures worth discovering. The Way of St. James is very well documented in several places in the church.
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The first name John has been widespread since biblical times, and so it should not surprise us to find a whole series of blessed and saints with this name over the two millennia of Christianity. At the threshold from the Old to the New Testament we encounter John the Baptist (also John Baptist), to whom most of the John churches are dedicated. But one of the four men who wrote the New Testament gospels also bears this name. This church in ___ is dedicated to him, JOHN EVANGELIST. A long church tradition has regarded the evangelist as identical with the apostle John mentioned in the Bible, but this is doubted in biblical scholarship. "The Gospel of John exerts a peculiar fascination. It is difficult to escape its solemn, sometimes mystical language. It addresses deep human needs and longings: hunger and thirst, the search for fulfilling eternal life, the longing for personal communion with God.” (Franz-Josef Ortkemper)
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are there around Lac de Paladru?
There are over 20 family-friendly hiking trails around Lac de Paladru, ranging from easy strolls to more moderate adventures. This guide specifically highlights 22 routes suitable for families, with 6 categorized as easy and 12 as moderate.
Are there any easy, circular routes suitable for families with young children?
Yes, Lac de Paladru offers several easy, circular routes perfect for families. While the full lake tour can be long, shorter sections like the Greenway (Voie Verte) connecting Charavines to Paladru provide a peaceful, accessible path along the lake, often passing through the charming Bois d'Amour.
What kind of natural features can we expect to see on family hikes around Lac de Paladru?
Family hikes around Lac de Paladru offer a diverse range of natural beauty. You'll encounter the stunning clear, turquoise waters of the lake itself, verdant woodlands, and open areas. Sensitive natural areas like the Feydelière and Véronnière marshes, accessible via paths like the Chemin des Marais, provide opportunities to spot local wildlife and plant species.
Are there any trails with good viewpoints over Lac de Paladru?
Absolutely! Many trails offer fantastic views. For elevated perspectives, consider routes that climb into the surrounding hills. The Les Hauts du Lac de Paladru Trail, for instance, provides excellent panoramic vistas. On clear days, from higher points, you might even catch glimpses of the Chartreuse mountains and Mont Blanc.
Can we bring our dog on the family-friendly trails?
Many trails around Lac de Paladru are dog-friendly, but it's always best to keep your dog on a leash, especially in nature reserves or areas with livestock. Be mindful of local regulations, particularly around beaches or protected natural sites. Always carry water for your pet and clean up after them.
What is the best time of year to hike with family around Lac de Paladru?
The spring and autumn months are ideal for family hiking around Lac de Paladru, offering pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, while autumn showcases vibrant foliage. Summer is also popular, especially for combining hiking with swimming in the lake, but trails can be busier and temperatures warmer. Winter offers a quieter experience, though some services might be reduced.
Are there any stroller-friendly options for very young children?
For families with strollers, the Greenway (Voie Verte) is an excellent choice. This accessible path connects Charavines to Paladru, offering a safe and smooth surface suitable for strollers, allowing you to enjoy the lakeside scenery with ease.
Where can we find parking for family hikes around Lac de Paladru?
Parking is generally available in the villages surrounding Lac de Paladru, such as Charavines and Paladru. Many trailheads have designated parking areas, especially near popular starting points for lake tours or specific routes. It's advisable to check specific route descriptions for the most convenient parking locations.
Are there places to eat or get refreshments near the family trails?
Yes, the villages around Lac de Paladru, including Charavines and Paladru, offer various options for refreshments and meals. You'll find cafes, restaurants, and shops where you can grab a snack, enjoy a meal, or stock up on supplies before or after your hike. During peak season, more options are typically available.
What do other hikers enjoy most about family-friendly hiking in Lac de Paladru?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.38 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning 'Blue Lake' views, the variety of well-maintained paths suitable for all ages, and the opportunity to combine hiking with other water activities. The peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty are frequently highlighted.
Can we reach the hiking trails around Lac de Paladru using public transport?
Public transport options to Lac de Paladru are available, connecting the lake's villages to larger towns in the Isère department. While less frequent than car access, local bus services can get you to key starting points like Charavines. It's recommended to check current bus schedules in advance, especially when planning a family outing.
Are there any longer, moderate family hikes that offer a good challenge?
For families looking for a bit more of a challenge, routes like On the shores of Lac de Paladru — loop from Charavines offer a moderate, longer experience. This 13.6 km path follows the lake's edge, providing continuous views and a good workout without significant elevation changes, making it suitable for active families.
Most popular routes around Lac de Paladru
Most popular attractions around Lac de Paladru
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