The best walks and hikes around Paladru
4.2
(288)
1,938
hikers
32
hikes
Hiking around Paladru offers diverse landscapes characterized by a pre-Alpine setting, with wooded hills and ancient moraines surrounding the glacial lake. The region features a mix of lakeside paths, undulating hills, and protected marsh areas. These natural features provide varied terrain for outdoor activities, ranging from gentle strolls to more challenging ascents.
Best hiking trails in Paladru
- The most popular hiking route is Les Trois Croix — loop from Paladru, a 5.2 miles (8.3 km) trail that takes 2 hours 22 minutes to complete. This moderate route leads through hills, offering views of the surrounding landscape.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Tour of Lake Paladru Trail, a difficult 11.9 miles (19.2 km) path. This trail circumnavigates Lac de Paladru, showcasing varied scenery including forests, marshes, and lake views.
- Local hikers also love the Les Hauts du Lac de Paladru Trail, a 9.7 miles (15.7 km) trail leading through wooded hills, often completed in about 4 hours 28 minutes. This route provides panoramic views of the lake and distant massifs.
- Hiking around Paladru is defined by its glacial lake, wooded hills, and protected marshlands. The network of trails offers options for easy family walks, moderate excursions, and more difficult treks.
- The routes in Paladru are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 250 reviews. More than 1800 hikers have used komoot to explore Paladru's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
4.5
(11)
70
hikers
8.31km
02:22
190m
190m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(8)
40
hikers
19.2km
05:37
530m
530m
Hike the difficult 11.9-mile Tour of Lake Paladru Trail, gaining 1744 feet in elevation with panoramic views of the 'Blue Lake'.
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2.0
(1)
44
hikers
15.7km
04:28
350m
350m
Hike the moderate Les Hauts du Lac de Paladru Trail for 9.7 miles, enjoying panoramic views of Lake Paladru and the Chartreuse massif.
5.0
(2)
21
hikers
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
16
hikers
11.0km
03:09
260m
260m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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Tips from the Community
Located at the northern end of Lake Paladru, this wetland is fed by the Courbon stream. It is a true extension of the lake, rich in biodiversity and very pleasant.
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A tourist attraction in this area is Lake Paladru, which stretches from the village of the same name in the north to Charavines in the south. If you walk around the lake from a distance rather than on the paths directly along the shore, the hills offer some very beautiful views of the landscape. But not only that: on the outskirts of Bilieu – on the eastern shore of the lake – we pass a small sacred monument: a simple wayside cross made of two massive wooden beams (without a body or INRI inscription), where the effects of wind and weather are already visible.
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Here, you enter a sensitive natural area for a 1-kilometer trail marked with four stations to discover the area's remarkable flora and fauna. A pleasant way to connect the two shores of Lake Paladru, between Paladru and Montferrat.
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A tourist attraction in this area is Lake Paladru, which stretches from the village of the same name in the north to Charavines in the south. If you walk around the lake from a distance rather than on the paths directly along the shore, the hills offer some very beautiful views of the landscape. But not only that: on the outskirts of Bilieu – on the eastern shore of the lake – we pass a small sacred monument: a simple wayside cross made of two massive wooden beams (without a body or INRI inscription), which already shows the wear and tear of wind and weather.
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The small rest area created here, with its very unusual design, invites passersby not to roll by carelessly: Behind the backrest of the bench rises a remarkable piece of craftsmanship: on one side, a flower stem bearing an unfolded blossom; and from the other, a bee flies towards it. An original idea, and rightly documented here several times with photos.
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Here we encounter three stone cubes stacked on top of each other, each smaller than the one below it. The gray cubes each have a white field in the center of their sides, with a cross carved into it, painted blue and standing out against the gray/white background. This construction forms the basis for the present small sacred monument: above it rises a radiant gold figure of the Madonna. From this prominent position, the Virgin Mary – venerated in France almost always under the title "Notre-Dame" ("Our Lady") – gazes far into the country, and has done so for more than 120 years. @Rainer N. has already explained the date and reason for its construction in his short post.
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The abbey basilica was rebuilt starting around 1490 and completed in 1510 by Bernardino Zaccagni. The famous artist Correggio left his mark on this church. He created five frescoes there, including the lunette with Saint John and the Eagle (1520), which is considered the first to be created. The frescoes, the dome depicting the Ascension of Christ, the decoration of the drum and pendants, and the frieze of images that extends around the entire interior perimeter are all artistic treasures worth discovering. The Way of St. James is very well documented in several places in the church.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are there in Paladru?
Paladru offers a wide selection of hiking trails, with over 30 routes available for exploration. These range from easy strolls to more challenging treks, catering to various skill levels.
Are there easy hikes suitable for beginners or families around Lac de Paladru?
Yes, Paladru has several easy hikes perfect for beginners or families. There are over 10 easy routes, often leading through charming woodlands or along the lake's edge. These paths provide a gentle way to experience the region's natural beauty without significant elevation changes.
Can I find circular hiking routes around Paladru Lake?
Absolutely. Many routes in Paladru are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A notable option is the challenging Tour of Lake Paladru Trail, which circumnavigates the entire lake, offering varied scenery including forests, marshes, and beautiful lake views over its 19.2 km length.
What kind of views can I expect on hikes around Paladru?
Hikes around Paladru offer magnificent panoramic views. As you ascend the wooded hills, you'll be treated to exceptional perspectives of the 'Blue Lake' itself, known for its striking turquoise waters. On clear days, distant vistas of the Chartreuse, Vercors, Belledone massifs, and even Mont Blanc are visible. Routes like Les Hauts du Lac de Paladru Trail are particularly known for these elevated viewpoints.
Are there any specific attractions or landmarks to see along the trails?
Yes, the trails around Paladru offer several points of interest. You can explore protected marsh areas like the Chemin des marais, which is rich in biodiversity. Other notable landmarks include various religious buildings such as Our Lady of the Vines and the Saint John the Evangelist Church of Valencogne. The lake itself, Lake Paladru, is a central attraction.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Paladru?
Paladru is beautiful year-round, but the best time for hiking is generally from spring to autumn. During these seasons, the weather is pleasant, and the natural landscapes, including the forests and marshes, are vibrant. The lake's waters are also warm enough for swimming in summer, reaching up to 25°C.
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails in Paladru?
Many trails in Paladru are dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the natural surroundings with your canine companion. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash, especially in protected natural areas like the marshes, to protect local wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all hikers.
How long do hikes around Paladru typically take?
Hike durations vary significantly depending on the route and your pace. Easy family strolls might take an hour or two, while moderate routes like Les Trois Croix — loop from Paladru typically take around 2.5 hours for its 8.3 km. Longer, more difficult trails, such as the Forest path – View of Lake Paladru loop, can take over 6 hours to complete.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Paladru?
The hiking experience in Paladru is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 270 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the diverse landscapes, from the clear blue waters of the lake to the peaceful wooded hills and unique marshlands. The well-maintained paths and the stunning panoramic views are also often highlighted as favorite aspects.
Is there public transport access to the hiking areas around Paladru?
While Paladru is primarily accessed by car, some local bus services connect the surrounding villages. For detailed information on public transport options and schedules to reach specific trailheads, it's best to consult local transport authorities or tourist information centers like Chartreuse Tourisme.
Where can I park when hiking around Lac de Paladru?
Parking is generally available in the villages surrounding Lac de Paladru, such as Paladru, Charavines, and Montferrat. Many trailheads have designated parking areas, especially near popular starting points or relaxation areas. Look for signs indicating public parking or consult local maps for specific locations.
Are there any protected natural areas or marshes I can explore?
Yes, Paladru is home to protected marsh areas, notably the Feydelière and Véronnière marshes (Marais). These wetlands are rich in biodiversity and offer discovery stations to learn about the local flora and fauna. The Chemin des marais – Lac de Paladru loop is an excellent route that crosses one of these protected natural zones.
Can I combine hiking with other activities like swimming in Lac de Paladru?
Absolutely! Lac de Paladru is famous for its remarkably clear and warm waters, reaching up to 25°C in summer, making it ideal for swimming. Many hiking trails offer access to the lake, allowing you to cool off with a refreshing dip after your walk. Beaches like Charavines Beach are perfect spots for this.
Most popular attractions around Paladru
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