The best waterfall hikes and walks around Lac Des Bordes

The Lac Des Bordes region offers a selection of waterfall hiking trails. Our guide features 4 distinct routes that lead to beautiful waterfalls, catering to various preferences and skill levels.

For beginners or those seeking an easy stroll, the Vaucoux Waterfall loop from Olpilière is an excellent choice. It's a short 1.1 km (0.7 miles) trail that takes about 20 minutes to complete. Another easy option is the Vaucoux Waterfall loop from Bois des Cotes, which is 5.5 km (3.4 miles) and offers a slightly longer exploration.

Yes, for those looking for a more challenging adventure, the Entraigues Waterfall – Bois de Chaux Waterfall loop from Espinchal is a substantial 27.1 km (16.9 miles) trail, typically taking around 7 hours 50 minutes. Another demanding option is the Bois de Chaux Waterfall – Entraigues Waterfall loop from Espinchal, covering 19.2 km (11.9 miles) in about 5 hours 30 minutes.

Absolutely! All the waterfall trails highlighted in this guide are circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Vaucoux Waterfall loop from Olpilière and the longer Entraigues Waterfall – Bois de Chaux Waterfall loop from Espinchal.

The region around Lac Des Bordes is set within the Cézallier volcanic plateau, offering a distinctive backdrop for waterfall hikes. You'll traverse open landscapes of pastures, rounded hills, and depressions, with the lake itself being a former peat bog. This unique geological history, combined with the presence of 'tremblants' (floating peat bog islands), creates a serene and ecologically rich environment.

Yes, the area offers options suitable for families. The Vaucoux Waterfall loop from Olpilière is an easy and short trail, perfect for families with younger children or those looking for a gentle walk to a waterfall. The natural beauty and diverse ecosystem also provide educational opportunities.

While specific regulations for each trail can vary, generally, dogs are welcome on trails in the Cézallier region, provided they are kept on a leash to protect the local wildlife and livestock. Given the area's rich biodiversity, especially migratory birds, keeping dogs under control is crucial.

Spring and autumn are particularly rewarding. In spring, the waterfalls are often at their fullest due to snowmelt and rainfall, and the area around the lake is adorned with daffodils in April. Autumn offers spectacular colors and is a crucial stopover for migratory birds, making it excellent for nature observation.

Access to the Lac Des Bordes area is generally easy, with paths leading from nearby villages like Brion. For specific waterfall trails, parking is typically available at the starting points of the loops, such as near Olpilière or Espinchal for the Vaucoux and Entraigues/Bois de Chaux waterfalls respectively. It's always advisable to check the route details for precise parking information.

The region is an 'Espace Naturel Sensible' (Sensitive Natural Area) and boasts exceptional biodiversity. You might spot over a hundred bird species, including rare migratory birds. The peat bogs are home to 36 types of dragonflies, and unique plants like sundews (carnivorous plants) and cranberries thrive here. In April, daffodils blanket the surroundings.

The waterfall trails around Lac Des Bordes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 200 reviews. Hikers often praise the serene environment, the unique volcanic landscapes, and the opportunity to discover beautiful waterfalls amidst rich biodiversity.

Winter hiking can be beautiful but requires preparation. The Cézallier plateau is at a high altitude (Lac Des Bordes is at 1186 meters), so expect colder temperatures, potential snow, and ice. Trails might be less accessible, and conditions can change rapidly. Proper winter gear, including waterproof clothing and appropriate footwear, is essential.

Given the varied terrain and potential for changing weather on the volcanic plateau, layered clothing is recommended. Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are essential, especially as trails near waterfalls can be damp or muddy. Bring water, snacks, and consider binoculars for birdwatching. A rain jacket is always a good idea, regardless of the forecast.