Easy hikes and walks around Etang De Pirot
4.6
(167)
837
hikers
69
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Etang De Pirot are situated within the Allier department of France, characterized by the expansive Tronçais forest. This region features the artificial Etang de Pirot lake, spanning 78 hectares, with two distinct arms and surrounding marshlands. The terrain is generally gentle, with minimal elevation changes, making it suitable for accessible walks. The landscape is dominated by ancient oak trees and diverse flora, providing a verdant environment for outdoor activities.
Best easy hiking trails around Etang De…
Last updated: May 18, 2026
4.3
(12)
62
hikers
7.78km
02:00
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(3)
2
hikers
7.41km
01:57
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
5
hikers
4.82km
01:16
40m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
hikers
7.22km
01:54
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(9)
43
hikers
6.17km
01:34
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Beautiful route, some paths are blocked at the beginning. In wet weather the small paths are very boggy
0
0
The equipped beach of this pond calls for swimming, especially after a good walk.
1
0
This magical and mysterious place in the Tronçais forest is a circular fountain surrounded by legends and stories, some of which date back to Gallo-Roman times. You can admire the inscription "The foresters at Velleda" on the edge of the fountain, in homage to the Germanic druidess who was venerated as the goddess of the forest. You can also try your luck by throwing a coin or a pin into the water, as some traditions say this will allow you to make a wish or get married. And if you're brave enough, you can visit the fountain at midnight on Christmas Eve, where some say you can hear the bells and moans of buried monks who have been punished for their sins.
3
1
The Étang de Pirot is an artificial lake created in 1846 to supply water to the Canal de Berry, a historic waterway that linked the Loire and the Cher. The pond covers an area of 78 hectares and is surrounded by the Tronçais forest, one of the largest oak forests in Europe. You can enjoy the view of the water, trees and wildlife as you walk along the shore or explore the two arms of the lake: the Cros-Chaud and the Guèrande. The Etang de Pirot is an ideal destination for a peaceful and refreshing hike in all seasons.
2
0
nice walk but be careful with the sun because of open roads through forest clearing
0
0
Square Oak Circumference: 6m35 Height: 30m (pedunculate oak) Age: around 390 (01/10/2020) Born around 1630 and preserved as a tree wall to delimit a cut of wood, I was classified thereafter. Today, I am one of the last three representatives of these classified trees. The fiber torso configured my trunk in a helix and my foot, square in shape, recalls the four pillars of the Eiffel Tower. It's the nickname I'm sometimes given But I get tired and sometimes, without warning, abandons a branch that comes crashing to the ground. Now I yearn for peace. With the help of the Ronde du Chêne Carré, I will be able to enjoy my last years and your visits in complete peace of mind.
1
0
The Viljot fountain is the most famous fountain in Tronçais. It is located near a Gallo Roman site; its name comes from Villa Jovis (Villa of Jupiter). During the development of this source in 1900, the foresters engraved on the coping “The foresters at Velleda”. Velleda, a 1st century German druidess, had been brought back into fashion by 19th century romanticism and was considered the goddess of foresters. A legend tells that a convent and a church rose in these places and were engulfed because of the sacrileges carried out by the monks who lived there.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available around Etang de Pirot?
There are 38 easy hiking trails around Etang de Pirot, offering a variety of options for accessible walks through the Tronçais forest and along the lake.
Are there any circular easy walks around Etang de Pirot?
Yes, many easy trails around Etang de Pirot are circular. For instance, the Pirot Pond loop from Isle-et-Bardais is a popular 7.7 km circular route that provides continuous views of the lake.
What kind of terrain can I expect on easy hikes in this area?
The terrain around Etang de Pirot is generally gentle with minimal elevation changes, making it ideal for easy hikes. You'll find paths through the expansive Tronçais forest and along the tranquil lake shores, often on well-maintained trails.
Are the easy hiking trails around Etang de Pirot suitable for families with children?
Yes, the easy hiking trails are very suitable for families. The gentle terrain and well-marked paths, combined with the natural beauty of the Tronçais forest and the lake, make for enjoyable outings. Consider the Bed & Breakfast 'Le Matou Roux loop from Isle-et-Bardais, which navigates through the forest with gentle ascents.
Can I bring my dog on the easy hiking trails?
While specific restrictions can vary, generally, dogs are welcome on trails in the Tronçais forest and around Etang de Pirot, provided they are kept under control. Always ensure to respect local signage and wildlife.
What natural features or landmarks can I see on an easy hike?
You can explore ancient oak trees within the Tronçais forest, some hundreds of years old like the famous Chêne Carré. The Fontaine de Viljot – Chêne Carré loop from Rond Daubrée specifically leads to these notable landmarks, including the Fontaine de Viljot, which is near a Gallo-Roman site.
How long do easy walks typically take around Etang de Pirot?
Easy walks around Etang de Pirot typically range from 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on the route and your pace. For example, a 7.7 km loop like the Pirot Pond trail takes approximately 2 hours.
What is the best time of year for easy hiking around Etang de Pirot?
The area is beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn offer particularly pleasant conditions for easy hiking, with mild temperatures and vibrant foliage. Summer is also popular, though it can be warmer.
Are there parking facilities available near the easy hiking trailheads?
Yes, parking is generally available near popular trailheads and access points around Etang de Pirot, especially in villages like Isle-et-Bardais and Cérilly, which serve as starting points for many routes.
What do other hikers say about the easy trails in Etang de Pirot?
The easy trails in Etang de Pirot are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 150 reviews. Hikers often praise the tranquil lake shores, the majestic ancient oak forests, and the well-maintained paths suitable for all abilities.
Are there any other lakes or bodies of water to explore nearby on an easy hike?
Yes, beyond Etang de Pirot, you can find other serene water bodies. The Étang de Goule and Its Beach loop from Le Village de Goule offers another easy hiking experience around a different lake, complete with a beach.
What makes the Tronçais Forest unique for easy hiking?
The Tronçais Forest, which surrounds Etang de Pirot, is one of Europe's largest oak forests, renowned for its ancient and majestic oak trees. This provides a unique, verdant, and historically rich environment for easy walks, with a diverse ecosystem to observe.
Are there cafes or places to eat near the easy hiking trails?
While the immediate lake banks are primarily natural, you can find cafes and small eateries in nearby villages such as Isle-et-Bardais or Cérilly, which are common starting points for many easy hiking routes.
Most popular routes around Etang De Pirot
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
