The best walks and hikes around Lain
4.7
(35)
108
hikers
12
hikes
Hiking around Lain offers a variety of trails through a landscape characterized by gentle hills, river valleys, and historical structures. The region features routes that often incorporate bridges and viaducts, suggesting a terrain shaped by water features and human engineering. The elevation changes are generally moderate, providing accessible options for different hiking abilities.
Best hiking trails around Lain
- The most popular hiking route is Porte de la Ville Parking Loop, a 2.5 miles (4.0 km) trail that takes 1…
Last updated: October 8, 2026
4.6
(12)
31
hikers
4.03km
01:06
60m
70m
An easy 2.5-mile (4.0 km) hiking loop around the medieval village of Druyes-les-Belles-Fontaines, featuring a castle and viaduct.
4.6
(5)
22
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(3)
6
hikers
9.80km
02:37
110m
110m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
2
hikers
7.26km
01:56
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The Notre-Dame church, in flamboyant Gothic style, was built in the 15th and 16th centuries by the Ulmes and Beaujeu families, entirely vaulted. Note: a chill. It is in a fairly elegant ogival style, with three naves, from the 16th century. Its length in work is 44.40 m; its nave width of 13.35 m; the width of the sanctuary is 6.66 m; the general height of the vault, 11.90 m. Thirteen stained glass windows, representing scenes from the Old and New Testaments, or saints (including Saint Nicholas and Saint Edward the Confessor), are arranged around the main altar. Wikipedia: https://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ouanne_(Yonne)
6
0
A very large church for this small town, which only has around 600 inhabitants. Unfortunately the church was locked. At the back I saw smashed, painted glass windows. If you look halfway up the tower, you can see empty niches where the figures of saints are missing.
6
0
City of character which deserves to be among the most beautiful villages in France with a little more development. To have : 1 - the castle and the small surrounding village after a beautiful climb from the village. 2 - the pond hidden behind the houses in the center. A quiet corner with a beautiful overview of the village. There you will understand where the name Belles Fontaines comes from.
0
0
It was only at the end of the 12th century that the current castle of Druyes appears in the texts. Previously, during the 11th century, a first wooden castle would have been built on the site of the said castle. Druyes is part of the first generation of castles from the time of King Philippe Auguste. It is built on a square plan of 52.3 meters per side. It is an imposing building which is one of the most important specimens of military architecture from the Romanesque period in Burgundy. Private property, the castle is open to visitors. It is reached by crossing the postern which is the gateway to the fortified village, where absolute calm seems to reign. The castle dominates the town of character of Druyes Les Belles Fontaines, which deserves to be listed among the most beautiful villages in France, if it were a little better highlighted. Note a beautiful climb to climb from the village to the castle
1
0
Very nice walk made in May 2019. I recommend!
0
0
Fortified Gate - classified as a historic monument. This gate is part of the enclosure of the lower courtyard of the castle which crowned the rock overlooking the valley and dominating the only possible crossing of the river. A second gate existed on the current rue de la Rampe. The enclosure dates from the 12th century. It was protected, to the east, by four still visible towers, one of which has just been restored. On the west coast, the enclosure appears as a very large wall, 2 m thick and 4 m high. It is incorporated into gardens and houses, but still visible. It was lined with a dry ditch. The postern did not include a drawbridge. It was closed by a heavy double door, the stone pivot cups of which can still be seen in the lower part. The machicolations made it possible to throw stones at the attackers. They probably date from the 14th century. This door has been classified as a historic monument since May 9, 1888.
7
0
6th century: primitive church built by Saint-Romain, destroyed by a fire at the end of the 11th century. 12th century: current Romanesque church: very pure plan, three-bay nave with apses in the extension. Flat transsept. 14th century: construction of the Notre-Dame de la Pitié chapel on the lower north side. 15th century: construction of the defense tower enclosing the staircase, raising of the transept with the incorporation of Gothic glass roofs. 19th century: construction of the sacristy, installation of stained glass windows, transfer of the cemetery surrounding the church. Decoration in the portal and capitals, borrows from Arab and Roman styles. Bell installed in 1881 "Constance", diameter: 1.215 m, weight: 1066 kg replaces "Perette", dating from 1642. The church was classified as a historic monument on May 9, 1888.
6
0
Beautiful 12th century castle visible from afar. Entrance costs 5 euros (as of 2021). Out of season the castle is only open on weekends. There is even a circular hiking trail where the castle is almost always visible. www.chateau-de-druyes.com
7
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are there around Lain?
There are 12 hiking trails around Lain, offering a variety of experiences. These include 5 easy routes and 7 moderate routes, ensuring options for different fitness levels.
What kind of terrain can I expect when hiking in Lain?
Hiking around Lain features a landscape of gentle hills, picturesque river valleys, and historical structures. Many routes incorporate bridges and viaducts, reflecting the area's water features and human engineering. The elevation changes are generally moderate, making the trails accessible.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners in Lain?
Yes, Lain offers 5 easy hiking trails perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed walk. An excellent option is the Porte de la Ville Parking Loop, which is 2.5 miles (4.0 km) long and takes about an hour to complete.
Are there any family-friendly hikes in Lain?
Many of the easy and moderate trails in Lain are suitable for families, thanks to the region's gentle hills and moderate elevation changes. Routes like Porte de la Ville Parking Loop are good choices for a family outing.
Are there circular walks available around Lain?
Yes, several routes around Lain are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the moderate Bridge Over the Druyes – The Druyes Viaduct loop from Druyes-les-Belles-Fontaines, or the easier The Druyes Viaduct – Bridge Over the Druyes loop from Druyes-les-Belles-Fontaines.
What can I see along the hiking trails in Lain?
The trails in Lain often lead past significant historical and natural landmarks. You can explore sites such as the Fortified Gate of Druyes-les-Belles-Fontaines, the impressive Château de Druyes, and the scenic The Druyes Viaduct. Many routes also feature river crossings and charming village churches like Saint-Romain Church.
Where can I find parking for hiking trails in Lain?
Many trails in Lain offer convenient parking options. For instance, the popular Porte de la Ville Parking Loop is specifically noted for its accessible starting point with parking facilities.
What is the typical length and duration of hikes in Lain?
Hikes in Lain vary in length and duration. Easy trails, like the Porte de la Ville Parking Loop, are around 2.5 miles (4.0 km) and take about an hour. Moderate routes, such as the Bridge Over the Druyes – Saint-Romain Church loop from Druyes-les-Belles-Fontaines, can be up to 6 miles (9.7 km) and take around 2.5 to 3 hours.
What do other hikers enjoy the most about hiking in Lain?
The hiking routes in Lain are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 30 reviews. Hikers often praise the region's blend of historical structures, scenic river valleys, and gentle hills, making for enjoyable and varied outdoor experiences.
Can I hike in Lain during winter?
While the region's gentle hills and moderate elevations suggest that some trails might be accessible in winter, conditions can vary. It's always advisable to check local weather forecasts and trail conditions before heading out, and ensure you have appropriate gear for colder temperatures and potential ice or snow.
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails in Lain?
Generally, dogs are welcome on many hiking trails in rural areas like Lain. However, it's always best to keep your dog on a leash, especially near livestock or in protected areas, and to check for any specific local regulations or signage on individual trails regarding pet access.
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