The best running trails around Lac De La Palisse
4.7
(19)
213
runners
25
runs
Jogging around Lac De La Palisse offers diverse terrain around a leisure area featuring a lake and its dam. The region is characterized by an unspoiled natural environment, including small lakes, woodlands, and rivers. When water levels are low, impressive basalt cliffs become visible, alongside traces of erosion forming mini canyons. A unique geographical feature, the "watershed line," is also present, where rivers flow towards either the Mediterranean Sea or the Atlantic Ocean.
Best jogging routes around Lac De La La Palisse
- The most popular jogging route is Running loop from Château des Eperviers, a 5.9 miles (9.5 km) trail that takes 1 hour 14 minutes to complete, offering views of the surrounding natural landscape.
- Another top favourite among local runners is Lake view loop from Lac d'Issarlès, a difficult 6.9 miles (11.1 km) path. This route provides scenic lake views and passes through varied terrain.
- Local runners also love the Mazan-l'Abbaye – Mazan-l'Abbaye loop from Saint-Cirgues-en-Montagne, a 10.8 miles (17.4 km) trail leading through woodlands and open areas, often completed in about 2 hours 9 minutes.
- Jogging around Lac De La Palisse is defined by its lake, basalt cliffs, and extensive woodlands, offering a network of routes for various ability levels, from easy paths to more difficult ascents.
- The routes in Lac De La Palisse are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from 20 reviews. More than 200 runners have used komoot to explore Lac De La Palisse's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 18, 2026
3
runners
9.46km
01:14
310m
310m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
runners
11.1km
01:26
360m
360m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5
runners
17.4km
02:10
430m
430m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
6
runners
11.0km
01:27
390m
390m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
3
runners
8.92km
01:06
240m
240m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Work "A circle and a thousand fragments" by Felice Varini. https://www.ardeche-guide.com/lieux-de-visites/sites-historical-monuments/oeuvre-un-cercle-et-mille-fragments-de-felice-varini-4827079
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Nice crossing point in the middle of the ruins. The Grande Porte farm is a good restaurant/refreshment point with a lovely view overlooking the abbey. There is also a water point within the abbey to fill the gourds.
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The artist Felice Varini has created an interesting work on the ruins of the Mazan Abbey, built in the 12th century. It is part of an artistic journey around the watershed line which crosses the Ardèche. This one is called “A circle and a thousand fragments” where the artist chose to work with gold leaf, mineral on mineral.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many running routes are available around Lac De La Palisse?
There are over 25 dedicated running routes around Lac De La Palisse, offering a wide range of options for different fitness levels and preferences.
Are there any easy or family-friendly jogging routes?
Yes, Lac De La Palisse offers 2 easy running routes, making it suitable for beginners or families looking for a more relaxed pace. The leisure area itself is designed with family-friendly amenities.
What kind of terrain will I encounter on the jogging paths?
The terrain around Lac De La Palisse is diverse. You can expect well-equipped pedestrian paths, marked hiking trails, and routes through unspoiled natural environments, including woodlands and areas where basalt cliffs and 'mini canyons' become visible when the lake's water level is low. Some routes may require good fitness due to varied elevation.
What are some notable natural features or landmarks to see while running?
While jogging, you can enjoy views of the Lac de la Palisse and its dam. Keep an eye out for impressive basalt cliffs and traces of erosion forming 'mini canyons' when the water level is low. The area also features a unique 'watershed line' where rivers flow towards either the Mediterranean Sea or the Atlantic Ocean, offering an interesting point of contemplation.
Are there any circular running routes around the lake?
Yes, many of the routes are designed as loops. For example, the Running loop from Château des Eperviers is a popular circular option, and the Lake view loop from Lac d'Issarlès also offers scenic lake views on a loop.
What do other runners say about the routes in Lac De La Palisse?
The running routes in Lac De La Palisse are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from 20 reviews. Runners often praise the diverse terrain, scenic lake views, and the natural beauty of the woodlands and open areas.
Is Lac De La Palisse accessible by public transport?
While the region is known for its natural environment, specific public transport options directly to the Lac De La Palisse leisure area may be limited. It is advisable to check local transport schedules or consider driving for easier access.
Are there parking facilities available for runners?
Yes, as a well-equipped leisure area, Lac De La Palisse provides parking facilities for visitors. You can typically find designated parking areas near the main recreational zones.
Are dogs allowed on the running trails?
The Lac De La Palisse area is generally welcoming to outdoor enthusiasts. However, specific regulations regarding dogs on trails can vary. It's always best to keep dogs on a leash and ensure you clean up after them to respect the natural environment and other visitors.
What is the best time of year for jogging at Lac De La Palisse?
The unspoiled natural environment of Lac De La Palisse makes it enjoyable throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer is also popular, but it's advisable to run during cooler parts of the day. Winter conditions might vary, so checking local weather is recommended.
Are there any cafes or restaurants near the running routes?
The Lac De La Palisse leisure area is equipped with amenities, and while specific cafes or restaurants directly on the trails might be limited, you can often find options within the broader leisure area or in nearby villages like Cros-de-Géorand or Saint-Cirgues-en-Montagne. The leisure area itself has a picnic area.
Do I need any permits to jog around Lac De La Palisse?
Generally, no specific permits are required for jogging on the public paths and trails around Lac De La Palisse. The area is freely accessible for outdoor activities. However, always respect local signage and regulations, especially in protected natural zones.
Most popular routes around Lac De La Palisse
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