Easy hikes and walks around Etang D'Ardres
4.3
(323)
2,213
hikers
159
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Etang D'Ardres traverse a protected natural space, historically marshland, now characterized by its wetlands and the largest lake in the Côte d'Opale region. The area features diverse flora and fauna, with picturesque wooden boardwalks and scenic paths around the water bodies. The terrain is generally flat, offering accessible routes suitable for easy walks. The lake itself spans approximately 2 km and covers 64 hectares, framed by meadows, groves, and forested hills.
Best easy hiking trails around Etang D'Ardres
- The most popular easy hiking route is Église Notre-Dame de Graces – Étang d'Ardres loop from Ardres, a 3.7 miles (5.9 km) trail that takes 1 hour 31 minutes to complete. This route offers views of the lake and surrounding natural areas.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Étang d'Ardres loop from Calais, an easy 2.1 miles (3.4 km) path. This route highlights the lake's diverse ecosystems and natural appearance.
- Local hikers also love the Étang d'Ardres – Étang d'Ardres loop from Ardres, a 3.4 miles (5.5 km) trail leading through tranquil lake paths, often completed in about 1 hour 25 minutes.
- Hiking around Etang D'Ardres is defined by tranquil lake paths, wooden boardwalks, and wetland landscapes. The network offers options for various ability levels, focusing on easy and accessible routes.
- The routes in Etang D'Ardres are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 300 reviews. More than 2,200 hikers have used komoot to explore Etang D'Ardres's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 18, 2026
5.0
(2)
30
hikers
5.91km
01:31
20m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(5)
28
hikers
5.58km
01:26
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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12
hikers
3.35km
00:50
0m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
14
hikers
7.15km
01:48
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
hikers
4.50km
01:09
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The artist was inspired by the famous phrase of the supreme and truly Cornelian call: "Arise, the dead!" ". This call is proclaimed by a grenadier with a greatcoat half torn by the explosions; he steps over a gabion and prepares to launch the deadly projectile towards the enemy: the poilu is alive and the stone seems alive. Despite the difficulties in the execution, the artist fortunately managed to avoid any heaviness, he was able to give the stone all the desired and possible flexibility. Ardres was kind enough, in keeping with the erection of this magnificent monument, to honour the memory of the 82 heroes and their children who died gloriously during the Great War.
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This bastion is the only remnant of the fortification system of the town built in the mid-16th century, but interesting as an example of Renaissance fortifications
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The Église Notre-Dame de Graces is a church in Ardres, France. It was founded in the 11th century and is dedicated to Saint-Omer and Notre-Dame de Grâce. The building is in flamboyant style and is made of limestone on a cruciform plan. The tower rising from the crossing of the transept is topped with a slate spire. The interior of the church contains an exceptional series of stained glass windows from the 19th century, as well as a statue of Notre-Dame des Grâces from the 13th century and a statue of Sainte Apolline from the 17th century. The address of the church is 56 Rue de l'Arsenal, 62610 Ardres, France.
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Between 1522 and 1541, François I reinforced the stronghold of Ardres with six bastions attached to the medieval wall. The work was entrusted to the Italian architect Dominique de Cortona, known as Boccador. Razed after 1849, all that remains of these fortifications is the Condette bastion, the conservation of which is due to the development of a public garden. It is a bastion whose salient forms an angle of 70 meters in length on the face and 30 meters in length on the side, comprising three high brick vaulted galleries, serving the access stairs to the lower defenses. The countermine gallery bypasses the main orillons by serving four firing positions, each pierced with three divergent firing slots for multidirectional fire for long guns. Above, a ventilation rises to the surface of the bastion to allow the smoke from the shots to escape. Presence in the sides of a casemate for heavy artillery, with two French embrasures, covered with a brick vault resting on a central pillar with three vents. This bastion is intended to be a transitional work between fortification by artillery towers and fortification by bastions.
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Le Grand Hebdomadaire, n°44, Sunday October 30, 1921, p. 370.: Ardres has also just erected a war memorial, the work of the sculptor Greber. The artist was inspired by the famous phrase of the supreme and truly Cornelian call: “Arise, the dead!” ". This call is proclaimed by a grenadier with a greatcoat half torn by the explosions; he steps over a gabion and prepares to launch the deadly projectile facing the enemy: the poilu is alive and the stone seems animated. Despite the difficulties of execution, the artist fortunately managed to avoid any heaviness, he was able to give the stone all the desired and possible flexibility. Ardres was kind enough to honor, as appropriate by the erection of this beautiful monument, the memory of the 82 heroes, its children, who fell gloriously during the great war.
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Small forest that invites you to take a walk.
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A beautiful lake on the edge of Ardres.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available around Etang D'Ardres?
Etang D'Ardres offers a wide selection of easy hiking trails, with over 75 routes specifically graded as easy. In total, there are more than 150 hiking routes in the area, catering to various preferences.
What kind of terrain can I expect on easy hikes around Etang D'Ardres?
The easy hikes around Etang D'Ardres are characterized by generally flat terrain, making them accessible for most. You'll find picturesque wooden boardwalks and scenic paths that wind around the lake and through wetland landscapes, offering a tranquil experience.
Are there any specific natural landmarks or viewpoints to look out for on these trails?
Yes, the entire area around Etang D'Ardres is a protected natural space, offering exceptional flora and fauna. The lake itself is the largest in the Côte d'Opale region, providing beautiful water views. You'll encounter wetlands, the Grand Lac, and the marshes of Vivier and Palentin, all contributing to the scenic beauty.
Is Etang D'Ardres a good destination for family-friendly walks?
Absolutely. The easy and generally flat trails, combined with the natural beauty and opportunities for wildlife observation, make Etang D'Ardres ideal for family outings. There are also picnic tables available for enjoying the natural surroundings, and the Eurolac Leisure Park offers additional activities like pedal boating and an accrobranche.
Can I bring my dog on the easy hiking trails around Etang D'Ardres?
While the region research doesn't specify dog policies, many natural areas in France welcome dogs on leash. It's always best to check local signage at trailheads for any specific restrictions or requirements regarding pets in the protected wetland areas.
What is the best time of year to go hiking around Etang D'Ardres?
Spring and autumn are considered ideal for hiking around Etang D'Ardres due to comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer also offers a lively atmosphere, allowing you to combine hikes with water activities on the lake.
Are there easy circular routes available around Etang D'Ardres?
Yes, many of the easy trails around Etang D'Ardres are circular. For example, the Église Notre-Dame de Graces – Étang d'Ardres loop from Ardres is a popular 5.9 km option, and the Étang d'Ardres – Étang d'Ardres loop from Ardres offers a similar experience. There's also a shorter Étang d'Ardres – Ardres Pond loop from Brêmes for a quick stroll.
Where can I park when visiting the easy hiking trails at Etang D'Ardres?
While specific parking locations aren't detailed, given the popularity of the area for outdoor activities, it's highly probable that designated parking areas are available near common access points to the lake and its trails, especially in and around Ardres and Brêmes.
How can I reach the easy hiking trails around Etang D'Ardres using public transport?
The region research indicates that routes like the Étang d'Ardres loop from Calais are accessible, suggesting public transport options might connect from larger towns like Calais to the Etang D'Ardres area. It's advisable to check local bus routes from Ardres town center for direct access to the lake.
What kind of wildlife and plants can I observe while hiking?
Etang D'Ardres is a remarkable natural space known for its exceptional fauna and flora, characteristic of wetlands. You might encounter rare species like the White water lily and Neglected orchid, alongside common species such as the Great crested grebe and Common toad. The Maison de la Nature nearby offers workshops to learn more about local plant and animal life.
Are there any amenities like cafes or restaurants near the easy hiking trails?
While specific cafes are not listed, the area around Etang D'Ardres is a popular destination, and the town of Ardres itself would likely offer dining options. The presence of picnic tables also suggests facilities for visitors to enjoy their own refreshments.
What do other hikers say about the easy trails around Etang D'Ardres?
The easy trails around Etang D'Ardres are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 300 reviews. Hikers often praise the tranquil lake paths, wooden boardwalks, and the beautiful wetland landscapes, highlighting the accessible and enjoyable nature of the routes.
Are there opportunities for other activities besides hiking at Etang D'Ardres?
Yes, beyond hiking, the lake provides opportunities for various water activities such as pedal boating and boat trips. The Eurolac Leisure Park also offers additional fun with inflatable games and an accrobranche (tree-top adventure course), making it a versatile outdoor destination.
Most popular routes around Etang D'Ardres
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