The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Réservoir D'Avène
4.4
(68)
343
hikers
26
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Réservoir D'Avène are set within a diverse landscape featuring a large artificial lake, extensive forests, and mid-mountain terrain. The region is characterized by the Réservoir D'Avène itself, formed by the Barrage des Monts d'Orb, and surrounded by the Monts d'Orb mountain range. Hikers can explore paths along the Orb River and through dense woodlands, offering varied elevations and natural features. This area provides a mix of lakeside paths and forest trails, suitable for different levels…
Last updated: July 7, 2026
3.5
(6)
24
hikers
7.86km
02:31
320m
320m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(5)
23
hikers
13.2km
04:08
520m
520m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(2)
27
hikers
26.8km
08:13
950m
940m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
16
hikers
28.9km
08:48
930m
940m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
7
hikers
7.50km
02:11
190m
190m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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Tips from the Community
From the D8E13 bridge, the viewpoint offers a beautiful postcard of Avène and the Orb.
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Consider booking a table at L'Avenette Gourmande restaurant, located in the small village of Avène. Enjoy a terrace overlooking the river, surrounded by nature. An exceptional setting and highly recommended traditional cuisine. I highly recommend it.
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This tiny and peaceful village, with a worldwide reputation for the benefits of its water, is a perfect location for hikers and gravel enthusiasts. You have many options of loops from there. Enjoy!
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In Ceilhes, you have to take the time to stroll through the medieval streets of the village and soak up the calm of the place. After enjoying the banks of the Bouloc lake and the pleasures of the beach in the summer, an alternation of paths and tracks in the cool atmosphere of a forest slope facing north allows you to reach the heights of the eastern shore of the Monts d'Orb lake. From Mont Redon, you can see far, in all directions.
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The bucolic charm of the places and the banks of the Orb is striking. The economy of Avène has always been based on significant mining activity that began under Roman rule and continued until 1954, when the Rabasse mines closed. Created in 1962 for hydroelectric production and regulation of the Orb, the Lac des Monts d'Orb (or Lac d'Avène) is 6 kilometres long and covers an area of 190 hectares. An old lead and silver mine is now submerged under the lake: the mines and their exploitation were a source of wealth for the Orb valley, from Antiquity until the 1950s. Today, it is above all nature that provides Avène with one of its benefits: water from the depths of the Languedoc earth. This water that has been shaping a destiny for two and a half centuries, a vocation inspired by Thermalism. It is impossible not to go to the Thermal Baths, a stone's throw south of the village (the markings of the Sentier des 2 Lacs allow you to reach the site on foot, and the connection is pretty!). The Thermal Baths site is peaceful, relaxing... like the range of well-being and beauty products from the Avène brand. Beyond the thermal area, there is a magnificent hotel and an excellent restaurant! The establishment is committed to a truly eco-responsible approach: use of local products, innovative and energy-efficient architectural and technical choices...
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Created in 1962 for hydroelectric production and regulation of the Orb river, the Lac des Monts d’Orb is 6 kilometres long and covers an area of 190 hectares. A former lead and silver mine is now submerged under the lake: the mines and their exploitation were a source of wealth for the Orb valley, from Antiquity until the 1950s. The lake is not intended for swimming, but you can have lovely accompanied outings on a stand-up paddle or kayak, and go fishing.
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Very beautiful lake, in which you can swim
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The Lac d'Avène reservoir is located at an altitude of 430 m and its surface area is 1.9 km².
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are there around Réservoir D'Avène?
There are over 20 family-friendly hiking trails available around Réservoir D'Avène. These include a good mix of easy and moderate routes, ensuring options for various family preferences and fitness levels.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes near Réservoir D'Avène?
You can expect a diverse landscape, from serene lakeside paths along the Réservoir D'Avène and Lac de Bouloc to tranquil forest trails through the Monts d'Orb. Some routes also offer gentle ascents to higher vantage points like Mont Redon, providing panoramic views of the reservoir and surrounding area.
Are there circular walks suitable for families around Réservoir D'Avène?
Yes, many of the family-friendly routes around Réservoir D'Avène are circular, making them convenient for day trips. For example, the Ceilhes-et-Rocozels – Lac de Bouloc loop from Ceilhes-et-Rocozels is a great option for a family outing.
What are some easy walks around Réservoir D'Avène suitable for beginners or families with young children?
For an easy and accessible walk, consider routes that stick close to the lake shore or within the flatter forest areas. While specific 'easy' routes are best identified by checking individual tour details, many trails around Lac de Bouloc are known for being gentle. Always check the route's elevation profile on komoot for suitability.
Are dogs allowed on the family-friendly hiking trails around Réservoir D'Avène?
Generally, dogs are welcome on trails around Réservoir D'Avène, but it's always best to keep them on a leash, especially in nature reserves or near livestock. Please ensure you clean up after your pet to preserve the natural environment for everyone.
Are there any interesting landmarks or attractions to see along the family-friendly routes?
Yes, you'll find several points of interest. The impressive 83-meter-high Barrage des Monts d'Orb is a notable sight. Some paths also lead through charming hamlets like Rouvignac, featuring renovated 18th and 19th-century houses and a chapel. The plan d'eau du Bouloc also offers recreational activities like swimming and watersports.
What is the best time of year to hike with kids around Réservoir D'Avène?
Spring and autumn are often ideal for family hikes around Réservoir D'Avène. The weather is typically milder, and the natural scenery is particularly beautiful with blooming flowers or vibrant fall foliage. Summer can also be pleasant, especially in the mornings or late afternoons, but be mindful of the heat.
Are there hiking trails with parking available near Réservoir D'Avène?
Yes, many trailheads, particularly those starting from towns like Avène or Ceilhes-et-Rocozels, or near the Barrage des Monts d'Orb, offer designated parking areas. It's advisable to check the starting point of your chosen route on komoot for specific parking information.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Réservoir D'Avène?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning lake views, the peaceful forest environments, and the variety of trails that cater to different abilities, making it a great destination for families.
Can we combine hiking with other activities around Réservoir D'Avène?
Absolutely! The Réservoir D'Avène area is perfect for combining hiking with other outdoor pursuits. The Lac de Bouloc recreation area offers swimming and watersports. The lake is also popular for fishing, and the extensive network of paths is well-suited for mountain biking. When water levels permit, paddleboarding and kayaking are also options on the main reservoir.
How long do the family-friendly hikes typically take around Réservoir D'Avène?
The duration of family-friendly hikes varies. Shorter, easier loops might take 1.5 to 2 hours, while moderate trails can range from 3 to 5 hours. For example, the View of Avène – Avène, spa town loop from Avène is approximately 7.8 km and takes around 2.5 hours.
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