4.3
(711)
4,686
hikers
116
hikes
Hiking around Lac Des Cammazes offers a variety of trails centered around the lake and its surrounding features in the Montagne Noire. The landscape is characterized by dense forests of beech, oak, and chestnut, providing shaded paths. The tranquil waters of Lac Des Cammazes, a retention basin formed by the Cammazes Dam, are a central feature. The region is surrounded by the foothills of the Montagne Noire, offering varied terrain and elevated viewpoints.
Last updated: October 12, 2026
4.7
(3)
13
hikers
8.21km
02:17
150m
150m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(3)
15
hikers
8.46km
02:16
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

4.5
(2)
15
hikers
10.2km
02:50
190m
190m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
11
hikers
8.02km
02:13
140m
140m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
14
hikers
14.4km
03:56
220m
220m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The Cammazes breakthrough, also known as the Vauban vault or Cammazes tunnel, is a 122-meter-long and 3-meter-wide vaulted tunnel, built between 1686 and 1688, which allows the waters of the mountain ditch to reach the Saint-Ferréol reservoir. An integral part of the immense Canal du Midi structure, it has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1996 and listed as a historic monument in 1997[1]. It was designed by Vauban in a memorandum of March 5, 1686, to channel the waters of the Montagne Noire ditch from the Sor valley to the Laudot valley, under "the crest of the Escammase mountain". Pierre-Paul Riquet, who had briefly considered this project, died in 1680. (Wikipedia)
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A slightly more extensive photo gallery with further pictures of this beautifully situated pond has been uploaded by hikers to the (sport-related) highlight; their pictures of "Lac de Cammazes" can be accessed via the following link =>> https://www.komoot.com/de-de/highlight/5578133
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Nice and not very difficult unless there is an Autan wind
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Superb and impressive, one of the 6 (main) lakes of the Montagne Noire, do not miss following the forest track which runs along its right bank.
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The Rigole de la Montagne Noire is very pleasant to ride, ideal for a bucolic and family ride. Very shaded, do not miss the detour to the Lampy.
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The Bassin du Lampy Neuf is a dam built to supply water to the Canal du Midi via the Rigole de la Montagne Noire. Originally the basin was located on the current site of Lampy Vieux but it was moved between 1777 and 1781, a hundred years after the creation of the Canal du Midi.
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The Montagne Noire channel allows part of the water from the streams flowing naturally towards the Mediterranean side of the Canal du Midi via the Fresquel to be channeled towards the oceanic slope.
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The area offers a diverse range of trails, from easy lakeside strolls to more challenging routes through woodlands and along historical water channels. You'll find options suitable for various fitness levels, with over 100 routes available, including 30 easy, 58 moderate, and 28 difficult trails.
Yes, Lac Des Cammazes has several easy and moderate trails perfect for families. These often feature gentle terrain around the lake and along the Rigole of the Montagne Noire, providing enjoyable walks for all ages. A good option for a family outing is the Lac des Cammazes – Cammazes Dam loop from Les Cammazes, which is 3.6 miles (5.8 km) and considered easy.
Many trails around Lac Des Cammazes are dog-friendly, offering open spaces and natural environments for your canine companion. It's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash, especially near wildlife or other hikers, and to check local signage for any specific restrictions.
Yes, circular routes are a popular feature of hiking around Lac Des Cammazes. Many trails are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. Examples include the The Rigole of the Montagne Noire – Cammazes Dam loop from Les Cammazes and the Lake Cammazes – Lac des Cammazes loop from L'Alquier.
For shorter and easier walks, focus on the paths directly around Lac Des Cammazes. These routes often stick to the lakeside, offering pleasant views without significant elevation changes. The Lac des Cammazes – Cammazes Dam loop from Les Cammazes is an excellent easy option at 3.6 miles (5.8 km).
Experienced hikers looking for more challenge can explore longer routes that venture further into the surrounding woodlands and incorporate more varied terrain. The Gutter edge – Lac des Cammazes loop from La Forge, at 14.6 km (9.1 miles), is a moderate option that offers a longer distance.
Hiking around Lac Des Cammazes offers a blend of natural beauty and historical engineering. You can explore the impressive Rigole of the Montagne Noire, an ancient water channel, and the Gravette Dam. The lake itself, Lac des Cammazes, is a central feature, providing scenic views throughout your walk.
The spring and autumn months are ideal for hiking around Lac Des Cammazes, offering pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Spring brings blooming flora, while autumn showcases vibrant fall colors. Summer can be warm, making early morning or late afternoon hikes preferable, and winter offers a quieter, often crisp experience, though some paths might be muddy.
The trails around Lac Des Cammazes are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.4 stars from nearly 600 reviews. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths, the serene lakeside atmosphere, and the interesting historical elements like the Rigole of the Montagne Noire.
Yes, the village of Les Cammazes, located near the lake, offers options for refreshments and meals. You can find local establishments to enjoy a break before or after your hike.
Public transport options directly to the trailheads around Lac Des Cammazes can be limited. It is generally recommended to travel by car to access the various starting points, especially for flexibility. However, local bus services might connect nearby towns, from which you could potentially arrange further transport or a longer walk.
Designated parking areas are available in and around the village of Les Cammazes, which serves as a common starting point for many trails. Look for parking near the lake's amenities or at specific trailheads, often indicated on local maps or komoot tour descriptions.


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