The best walks and hikes around Barrage Des Settons

There are over 30 hiking routes available around Barrage des Settons, catering to various skill levels. These trails explore the diverse landscapes of the Morvan Regional Natural Park, from lakeside paths to more challenging hill climbs.

The terrain around Barrage des Settons is quite varied. You'll find gentle paths around the lake, often featuring boardwalks in muddy areas, as well as more demanding routes through the surrounding granite hills and extensive forests of fir and beech. The region is part of the Morvan Regional Natural Park, known for its mountainous landscape.

Yes, there are several easy routes perfect for families. For instance, the Settons Lake – Wooden Footbridge on the Lake loop from Montsauche-les-Settons is an easy 3.9 km (2.4 miles) trail. The popular loop around Lac des Settons itself, while longer, is generally considered easy to moderate and suitable for families, with many flat sections and viewpoints.

Generally, dogs are welcome on the hiking trails around Barrage des Settons and within the Morvan Regional Natural Park. However, it's always recommended to keep them on a leash, especially in areas with wildlife or near other hikers, and to respect local regulations. The natural environment with forests and lake shores offers plenty for dogs to enjoy.

Hikers can discover several interesting features. The historic Settons Lake Dam, built in the 1850s, is a significant landmark. You'll also encounter picturesque Wooden Footbridges on the Lake that offer unique views. The trails also pass through dense forests and along the sinuous shores of Lac des Settons, providing opportunities to spot local birds like herons and ducks.

Many of the trails around Barrage des Settons are circular, offering convenient starting and ending points. A popular option is the Settons Lake Dam – Racine Bridge loop from Montsauche-les-Settons, which is a 17.6 km (11.0 miles) moderate route. Another is the Lac des Settons North – Settons Lake Dam loop from Lac des Settons, an easy 7.1 km (4.4 miles) trail.

The hiking experience in Barrage des Settons is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 760 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse landscapes, the well-maintained paths, and the tranquil atmosphere around Lac des Settons. The combination of lake views, forests, and varied terrain makes it a favorite destination.

While many trails around the lake are relatively flat, the broader Morvan Regional Natural Park, which Barrage des Settons is part of, offers more challenging options. For example, the Settons Lake – Wooden Footbridge on the Lake loop from Lac des Settons, though starting easy, is rated difficult due to its 19.4 km (12.1 miles) length and over 200 meters of elevation gain. The park also features peaks like Haut-Folin (901m) for those seeking higher climbs.

Public transport options directly to the Barrage des Settons area are limited. It is generally recommended to reach the area by car. Once there, many trailheads offer parking facilities, especially around Lac des Settons and Montsauche-les-Settons, making it convenient to start your hike.

Yes, the area around Lac des Settons is well-equipped for visitors. You'll find various facilities including cafes, restaurants, and accommodation options, particularly in and around Montsauche-les-Settons. The landscaped beaches and watersports centers around the lake also suggest amenities are readily available for hikers to refuel and relax.

The best time to hike around Barrage des Settons is generally from spring to autumn. Spring brings lush greenery and blooming flora, while autumn offers stunning fall colors in the extensive forests. Summer is popular for combining hiking with water activities on Lac des Settons, though trails can be busier. The region's clean environment ensures clear skies, making any season enjoyable for outdoor activities.