The best walks and hikes around Lac de Montsalvens
4.5
(1356)
15,387
hikers
363
hikes
Hiking around Lac de Montsalvens offers varied terrain characterized by the man-made lake itself, surrounded by hills and forests. The region features pathways along the lake's banks, through forest floors, and over gentle hills, with views of the Dents Vertes peaks. The Motélon valley provides additional scenic routes, and the area includes the historic Montsalvens Dam. This landscape provides diverse options for outdoor activities.
Best hiking trails around Lac de Montsalvens
- The most popular hiking route is Lake Montsalvens – Waterfall loop from Charmey (Gruyère), a 7.1 miles (11.5 km) moderate trail that takes 3 hours 33 minutes to complete, leading through varied terrain including forests and along the lake.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is View from Mont Bifé loop from Châtel-sur-Montsalvens, a moderate 5.9 miles (9.5 km) path. This route offers views over the lake and surrounding peaks, including the Dents Vertes.
- Local hikers also love the Jogne Gorge Trail, a 3.1 miles (5.0 km) trail leading through a scenic gorge, often completed in about 1 hour 28 minutes.
- Hiking around Lac de Montsalvens is defined by its man-made lake, surrounding hills, and dense forests, with routes often featuring views of the Dents Vertes peaks. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy lakeside paths to more challenging ascents.
- The routes in Lac de Montsalvens are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 1,200 reviews. More than 15,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Lac de Montsalvens's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 30, 2026
5.0
(22)
288
hikers
4.96km
01:29
150m
150m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(20)
134
hikers
11.2km
03:06
150m
290m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.8
(5)
35
hikers
17.0km
06:04
1,000m
1,000m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.8
(17)
74
hikers
11.5km
03:33
420m
420m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
80
hikers
9.50km
03:34
560m
560m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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Popular around Lac de Montsalvens
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Tips from the Community
Hello, the Jogne Gorges are closed until 2025 - check before exploring them.
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IMPORTANT INFO!!! The Jogne Gorge is closed to the public due to the bad weather last winter!!! However, the tour of Lake Montsalvens is still possible and remains a very nice walk to do, with some lovely picnic spots 😉
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Hello, this year 2025, the gorges are closed due to weather damage. The tour of the lake is possible from Châtel-sur-Montsalvens or Charmey.
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Unfortunately, it's closed this year. The gorge entrance is blocked with a gate.
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A little hidden but still easy to find. Pretty little waterfall just before the exit of the gorge
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Especially when the lake is calm and not a breath of wind ruffles the surface, La de Montsavens exudes an inner calm. At low tide, characteristic keel banks form on its banks, inviting you to linger.
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The hike through the gorge is easy. All paths, footbridges, bridges and tunnels are easy to navigate, even with children. The landscape is wild and romantic and even spectacular when the water level is high. But good, sturdy shoes are recommended. Especially if it has rained beforehand or there is dew everywhere, it can be slippery in some places. The gorge is not suitable for strollers.
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I've rarely seen such a beautiful waterfall. It seems magical. ;)
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Lac de Montsalvens?
There are over 370 hiking routes around Lac de Montsalvens, catering to various skill levels. This includes more than 130 easy trails, over 170 moderate routes, and more than 60 challenging options for experienced hikers.
What kind of terrain can I expect on hikes around Lac de Montsalvens?
The terrain around Lac de Montsalvens is quite varied. You'll find pathways along the lake's banks, trails winding through dense forests, and gentle hills offering views of the Dents Vertes peaks. Some routes also follow rivers, like those in the Motélon valley, providing shaded paths.
Are there any family-friendly hiking options around Lac de Montsalvens?
Yes, the region is excellent for families. The approximately 9 km circular hike around Lac de Montsalvens, often called the "Tour du Lac," is considered easy and suitable for introducing young children to hiking. It takes about 3 hours and features varied scenery and picnic spots.
What are some notable landmarks or points of interest along the hiking trails?
Hikers can discover several interesting points. The Montsalvens Dam, Europe's first double-curvature arch dam, is a significant architectural sight. You might also encounter La Monse Chapel, a four-century-old chapel, and a 60-meter-long suspension bridge, also known as the "Gwagglibrücke," which offers a unique crossing experience.
Are there any circular hiking routes around Lac de Montsalvens?
Yes, the most prominent is the circular hike around Lac de Montsalvens itself, which is about 9 km long. Another popular option is the View from Mont Bifé loop from Châtel-sur-Montsalvens, which offers stunning views over the lake and surrounding peaks.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Lac de Montsalvens?
The region is particularly pleasant for hiking during summer, as many paths, especially in the Motélon valley, are largely shaded. The varied landscape and views of the Dents Vertes reflected in the lake are beautiful in clear weather.
Is there parking available for hikers at Lac de Montsalvens?
Yes, there are parking facilities available for hikers around Lac de Montsalvens, particularly near popular starting points for the circular lake tour. Specific parking details can often be found on local tourism websites or detailed route descriptions.
Can I reach the hiking trails around Lac de Montsalvens by public transport?
Yes, the region is accessible by public transport, which adds to its convenience for visitors. You can plan your journey to reach the starting points of various trails without needing a car.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Lac de Montsalvens?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 1,200 reviews. Hikers often praise the varied terrain, the stunning views over the Dents Vertes, and the well-maintained paths that cater to different skill levels.
Are there any routes that feature waterfalls near Lac de Montsalvens?
Yes, one popular route that includes a waterfall is the Lake Montsalvens – Waterfall loop from Charmey (Gruyère). This moderate trail leads through forests and along the lake, offering scenic views including a waterfall.
Are there any easy hikes suitable for beginners around Lac de Montsalvens?
Absolutely. Besides the main circular lake path, an easy option is the Jogne Gorge Trail. This 5 km trail takes about 1 hour 30 minutes to complete and offers a scenic walk through a gorge.
What can I do after a hike in the Lac de Montsalvens area?
After a refreshing hike, you can relax in the thermal waters of the Bains de La Gruyère in nearby Charmey. Alternatively, you might enjoy a visit to the Maison Cailler chocolate factory in Broc for a sweet treat.
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