The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Lac Des Vieilles Forges
4.4
(1523)
6,930
hikers
13
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Lac Des Vieilles Forges are set within the Ardennes massif, characterized by a large lake surrounded by expansive, deep forests. The terrain is generally gentle, with minimal elevation changes, making it accessible for various fitness levels. The lake, situated at an elevation of 340 meters, is fed by the river Faux and offers wooded shores and well-maintained paths. This natural environment provides a tranquil setting for outdoor activities.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Lac…
Last updated: May 26, 2026
4.5
(151)
819
hikers
11.8km
03:05
90m
90m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.5
(2)
26
hikers
5.80km
01:30
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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8
hikers
4.12km
01:05
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
15
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(3)
5
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Great place with a new campsite and pool, magnificent👌👍 and around the lake. You can go hiking and mountain biking.👌🚵🥾
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Very pleasant place, for beautiful walks and mountain bike rides👍
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Sublime in the winter mist, colourful in autumn, invigorating in spring and a real seaside resort in summer, the Lac des Vieilles Forges can be enjoyed all year round.
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Hike through the forest and return via a small road without significant traffic. In the forest, wet path. Equip yourself accordingly.
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This sandy beach, patrolled by lifeguards during the summer months, is a safe and relaxing place to cool off after your run. You can also explore the trails around the lake, which offer varying levels of difficulty and stunning views of the water and wildlife. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, you will find at the Plage du lac des Vieilles Forges a course adapted to your needs and preferences.
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Lac des Vieilles Forges is surrounded by forests and meadows. You can enjoy views of the water and wildlife while circling the lake. The lake is also part of a hydroelectric system that pumps water to and from two reservoirs to generate electricity.
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You can admire the view of the water and the greenery, as well as the fauna and flora that inhabit the region. The lake is a popular spot for swimming, kayaking, fishing, and other water sports. You will find picnic areas, barbecues and ice cream parlors around the beach. The Plage du lac des Vieilles Forges is an ideal place to visit during your hike.
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In the heart of the forest, and a few kilometers from the Meuse Valley, the site of Vieilles-Forges is the ideal place to treat yourself to a moment of relaxation and leisure in a beautiful setting. This unique natural site consists of a forest complex of 1000 hectares and a lake of 150 hectares and offers you the opportunity to practice many activities such as swimming, canoeing, fishing or even hiking. The Vieilles-Forges estate welcomes 280,000 visitors every year. It is today rated as the first tourist attraction of the Ardennes.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Lac des Vieilles Forges?
There are 12 family-friendly hiking trails around Lac des Vieilles Forges featured in this guide. These routes offer a mix of easy and moderate options, perfect for families with varying experience levels.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes in this region?
The trails around Lac des Vieilles Forges are generally characterized by gentle terrain with minimal elevation changes, making them very accessible for families. You'll mostly find tranquil lake shore paths and immersive forest trails, offering a picturesque experience through wooded landscapes.
Are there any easy circular routes suitable for families with young children?
Yes, several easy circular routes are perfect for families. For a peaceful experience winding through the forests bordering the lake, consider the Vieilles-Forges Lake – loop from Les Vieilles Forges, which is about 5.8 km. Another great option is the Lac des Vieilles Forges loop from Lac des Vieilles Forges, a shorter 4.1 km trail through lakeside woodlands.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the family trails here?
The komoot community highly rates the trails around Lac des Vieilles Forges, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 1300 ratings. Hikers frequently praise the tranquil lake views, the well-maintained paths, and the immersive experience of walking through the deep forests, making it an ideal destination for a relaxing family outing.
Can we bring our dog on the family-friendly hiking trails?
Many trails around Lac des Vieilles Forges are dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the natural beauty with your furry companion. It's always a good idea to keep your dog on a leash, especially in forested areas, and to check specific trail regulations before you go.
Are there any attractions or points of interest along the family hiking routes?
While the primary attractions are the serene lake and extensive forests, some routes may pass by historical elements like the medieval Château de Moncornet or offer views of the lake's recreation areas. The region also boasts family-friendly parks like Elfy Park and Ardennes Terre d'Aventures nearby for additional activities.
What is the best time of year to go hiking with family around Lac des Vieilles Forges?
The area is beautiful year-round, with each season offering a unique experience. Spring brings intense greens, summer provides freshness, and autumn transforms the landscape with vibrant, flamboyant colors. The gentle terrain makes it enjoyable in most conditions, but summer and autumn are particularly popular for family outings.
Are there longer family-friendly routes for more active families?
For families looking for a longer adventure, the Lac des Vieilles Forges — loop from Les Mazures is a moderate 11.8 km loop that offers continuous views of the lake and takes approximately 3 hours and 5 minutes to complete. Another option is the Road and forest – Lac des Vieilles Forges loop from Lac des Vieilles Forges, a 9.8 km moderate route.
Is there parking available near the trailheads for family hikes?
Yes, parking is generally available at various access points around Lac des Vieilles Forges, especially near popular starting points like Les Mazures and Les Vieilles Forges. These areas are well-equipped to accommodate visitors looking to explore the trails.
What other activities can families enjoy besides hiking at Lac des Vieilles Forges?
Beyond hiking, Lac des Vieilles Forges offers a wide array of family-friendly activities. The lake's recreation area provides numerous water sports, including canoeing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and pedal boating. You can also find opportunities for mountain biking and fishing, making it a versatile destination for outdoor fun.
Are there any easy routes that combine road and forest paths?
Yes, the Lac des Vieilles Forges – Road and forest loop from Lac des Vieilles Forges is an easy 4.8 km route that offers a pleasant mix of road and forest sections, perfect for a varied family walk.
Most popular routes around Lac Des Vieilles Forges
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