The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Lac de Barterand
4.4
(355)
2,477
hikers
58
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Lac de Barterand are set within a glacial lake basin, spanning 67 hectares, and are part of a larger Sensitive Natural Area (ENS) known for its ecological significance. The terrain features gentle gradients, making it accessible for various fitness levels, and includes lake shores, wooded sections, and surrounding vineyards. This region, located in the Ain department at the foot of the Grand Colombier, offers a diverse landscape for outdoor exploration.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Lac de Barterand
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Lake Barterand – Lake Barterand loop from Saint-Champ, a 2.0 miles (3.2 km) easy trail that takes 50 minutes to complete, offering direct views of the lake.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Lake Barterand – Lake Barterand loop from Saint-Champ, a moderate 4.7 miles (7.5 km) path. This route provides a comprehensive circuit around the lake, passing through varied natural surroundings.
- Local hikers also love the Lake Barterand – View of Lake Barterand loop from Saint-Champ, a 3.6 miles (5.9 km) trail leading through wooded areas and offering elevated viewpoints of the lake, often completed in about 2 hours.
- Hiking around Lac de Barterand is defined by glacial lake shores, diverse marshlands, and picturesque vineyards. The network offers options for different ability levels, with many routes suitable for families.
- The routes in Lac de Barterand are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 300 reviews. More than 2,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Lac de Barterand's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
4.2
(5)
33
hikers
7.52km
02:19
250m
250m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
21
hikers
3.16km
00:50
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.5
(13)
87
hikers
8.40km
02:46
360m
360m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
3.0
(1)
10
hikers
10.9km
03:11
280m
280m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
5.96km
01:38
100m
100m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Lac de Barterand
Other adventures around Lac de Barterand
Tips from the Community
Beautiful little lake! Not a soul around at the start of the year. I recommend passing by if you're cycling.
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Very pretty, calm and peaceful lake
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It's quite easy to ride on a road bike (unless you ride the old-fashioned way with thin, over-inflated tires). The path is sometimes stony, but if you're comfortable on a bike, it's fine (in dry weather... if it's greasy, it must still be less pleasant).
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In addition to the remarkable welcome from the guests and the renowned quality of their wines, Maison Angelot also has its own marked walking route through the vineyards around a superb chestnut tree over 500 years old and an orientation table with view of Mont Blanc to the east.
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Small lake a stone's throw from the Rhône, the wine-growing villages of Bugey de Belley and Grand Colombier. You can swim there in summer at the beach on the south side or fish. To discover at the edge of the lake: its sculpted rocks and sculptures.
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Lake Barterand was an interesting place of experimentation to promote the art of stone cutting. A giant sculpture was created in homage to the legends of Bugey and in particular here in Gargantua, on one side of the lake. This work first required cutting the rock in order to remove part of the hard limestone. Subsequently, 7 sculptors from all over France came together to create this work in bas relief where we find: Gargantua the giant man and gourmet who opens the rock with his powerful hands. The bunches of grapes are a nod to Bugey wines and the spirit of Bugey conviviality. It then transforms into drops then into a stream bathing the Vouivre, a half-charming, half-evil character, coming from the mists of the marsh.
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Nice little lake in the hilly landscape between Rhône and Seran.
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A fairly easy little hike despite two or three difficult passages. The panorama is exceptional over Lake Barterand but also over Mont Blanc.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Lac de Barterand?
The Lac de Barterand area offers a wide selection of family-friendly hiking trails. You'll find over 20 easy routes, perfect for families looking for a relaxed outing, alongside many moderate options for those seeking a bit more adventure.
What makes the hiking trails around Lac de Barterand suitable for families?
The trails around Lac de Barterand are ideal for families due to their generally gentle gradients and diverse, engaging landscapes. You can expect to walk along the lake's shores, through pleasant wooded sections, and past picturesque vineyards, offering varied scenery without being overly strenuous.
Are there any easy circular walks perfect for families with young children?
Absolutely! For a straightforward and enjoyable loop, consider the Lake Barterand – Lake Barterand loop from Saint-Champ. This easy 3.1 km path is perfect for families with young children, offering lovely views of the lake. Another popular option is the 5.0 km loop from Le Mollard, which provides a comprehensive circuit around the lake.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes in this area?
The terrain around Lac de Barterand is generally gentle and varied. You'll find paths winding along the lake's edge, through shaded woodlands, and occasionally past charming vineyards. The area is known for its accessible trails with mild elevation changes, making it comfortable for all family members.
Can we bring a pram or stroller on any of the trails?
While many trails feature gentle gradients, some sections might be unpaved or have uneven surfaces. For the most pram-friendly experience, stick to the wider, well-maintained paths directly around the lake. Always check the specific route details on komoot for terrain information before heading out.
What are some interesting natural features or landmarks to look out for on family hikes?
Keep an eye out for the unique Sculpted Rocks on the northern side of the lake, which depict local legends like Gargantua and La Vouivre – a fascinating sight for all ages. The entire area is also a 'Sensitive Natural Area' (ENS), so you'll be surrounded by rich biodiversity and beautiful natural landscapes.
Is Lac de Barterand a good place for wildlife spotting with kids?
Yes, Lac de Barterand is an excellent spot for wildlife enthusiasts! The area is part of a 'Sensitive Natural Area' (ENS) and is home to nearly 150 faunal species and almost 270 floral species. You might spot various birds, reptiles, amphibians, and insects, making it a great educational experience for children.
What is the best time of year for family hiking around Lac de Barterand?
The spring and summer months are particularly pleasant for family hikes around Lac de Barterand. During summer (June to September), swimming is permitted and supervised at a designated beach, offering a refreshing break after your walk. Spring brings blooming flora and mild temperatures, perfect for exploring.
Are dogs allowed on the family-friendly trails?
Generally, dogs are welcome on trails around Lac de Barterand, but it's always best to keep them on a leash, especially given the area's rich wildlife and the presence of other hikers and families. Please remember to clean up after your pet to help preserve the natural beauty of this 'Sensitive Natural Area'.
Are there any longer family-friendly routes for older children or more active families?
For families looking for a longer adventure, the Lake Barterand – Lake Barterand loop from Saint-Champ, at 7.5 km, offers a moderate challenge with more elevation gain. Another great option is the Lake Barterand – La Maison d'Angelot loop from Saint-Champ, which extends to nearly 10 km, providing a more extensive exploration of the area.
Where can we park when visiting the family-friendly trails?
Parking is generally available at key starting points around the lake, such as in Saint-Champ. These spots are usually well-indicated and provide convenient access to the various hiking loops. It's advisable to arrive earlier during peak season to secure a spot.
What do other hikers enjoy the most about hiking in Lac de Barterand?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful and natural ambiance, the well-maintained paths, and the beautiful views of the lake and surrounding vineyards, making it a truly rewarding experience for families.
Most popular routes around Lac de Barterand
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