The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Lac de Saint-Point

The Lac de Saint-Point area offers a wide variety of hiking opportunities, with over 150 routes in total. Specifically for families, there are more than 50 easy trails that are well-suited for all ages and skill levels, ensuring a pleasant outdoor experience.

Yes, many trails around Lac de Saint-Point are suitable for families with young children, and some are even stroller-friendly. The well-maintained 23-kilometer path encircling the lake, known as the "Tour du Lac," is generally considered easy to moderate and offers continuous scenic views. For a shorter option, consider the Tour of Lake Saint Point – Saint-Point-Lac loop from Saint-Point-Lac, which is just under 10 km and has minimal elevation gain.

Families can enjoy a diverse range of natural beauty. The clear waters of Lac de Saint-Point itself are a constant highlight, reflecting the surrounding forests. You might also discover unique natural phenomena like La Source Bleue, a spring known for its astonishing blue color. The nearby Lac de Remoray, a National Nature Reserve, offers rich biodiversity, while the lush forests provide shaded trails and verdant backdrops.

Absolutely! Beyond the natural beauty, families can explore several interesting attractions. The historic Château de Joux offers a glimpse into a thousand years of history. You could also visit Fort Saint-Antoine, which houses impressive Comté cheese aging cellars, providing a unique cultural and culinary experience with guided tours and tastings.

Yes, circular routes are plentiful and perfect for family outings. The entire lake can be circumnavigated, and there are several shorter loops. For example, the Sheltered Picnic Area – Lake Saint-Point loop from Malbuisson is a moderate 11.7 km circular hike that offers beautiful lake views and potential picnic spots.

The Lac de Saint-Point region is generally very welcoming to dogs, making it a great destination for family hikes with your furry friends. Many trails, especially those around the lake and through the forests, are suitable for dogs. Always remember to keep your dog on a leash, especially in nature reserves or areas with livestock, and to clean up after them.

The best time for family hiking around Lac de Saint-Point is typically from spring through autumn. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and fresh greenery, while summer offers warm weather perfect for combining hikes with water activities on the lake. Autumn provides stunning foliage colors and pleasant temperatures. Even in winter, when the lake often freezes, snowshoeing can be a magical family experience.

Yes, the area around Lac de Saint-Point is dotted with scenic spots perfect for a family picnic. Many trails offer benches or open grassy areas with beautiful lake views. The Sheltered Picnic Area – Lake Saint-Point loop from Malbuisson even highlights a specific picnic area, making it an ideal choice for families planning to dine al fresco.

Most trailheads around Lac de Saint-Point are easily accessible by car, and ample parking is generally available in the villages surrounding the lake, such as Malbuisson and Saint-Point-Lac. While public transport options might be more limited, local bus services connect some of the main towns and villages, which can be useful for reaching certain starting points.

The komoot community highly rates the hiking experiences around Lac de Saint-Point, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 1000 ratings. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths, the stunning lake views, and the variety of trails suitable for different ages, making it a popular choice for family outings.

For breathtaking panoramic views, consider trails that ascend slightly above the lake. The View of Lac de Saint-Point – Two Lakes Viewpoint loop from Malbuisson, though more challenging at nearly 20 km, offers spectacular vistas of Lac de Saint-Point and potentially Lac de Remoray. Mont d'Or, the highest point in the Doubs department, also provides incredible views of the Jura, Switzerland, and even Alpine summits for those seeking a more strenuous hike.

The charming villages surrounding Lac de Saint-Point, such as Malbuisson and Saint-Point-Lac, offer various options for refreshments and meals. You'll find cafes, restaurants, and local shops where you can grab a snack, enjoy a full meal, or simply relax with a drink after your family adventure.