Discover Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes through our best hikes

"Beautiful transparent water surrounded by lush greenery creates a truly peaceful atmosphere. This protected natural area offers stunning views of the Belledonne, Chartreuse and Vercors mountain ranges. Perfect spot for relaxation and bird watching - spotted kingfishers and grey herons during my visit. The proximity to Grenoble makes it an excellent quick escape from city life."

"Absolutely magical winter hike through snow-covered forest paths. The protected status of this reserve really shows in the untouched natural beauty and diverse ecosystem. Trail is well-marked and suitable for families, though remember that dogs aren't allowed to protect the wildlife. The entrance fee supports important conservation work in this special alpine environment."

"Un petit coin sympa pour une sortie nature courte en famille. Le dénivelé modéré de 300 mètres convient bien aux enfants et la durée d'une heure et demie est parfaite pour une demi-journée. Dommage que tout soit payant, cela fait grimper le budget rapidement. L'interdiction des chiens peut poser problème selon les familles mais les sentiers sont bien entretenus."

"Magnifique découverte que ce lac de Saint-Front ! La randonnée d'1h30 passe très vite tant les paysages sont variés et apaisants. Le dénivelé de 300 mètres est parfaitement gérable, même pour les débutants. Attention à prévoir le budget pour le stationnement et l'accès, mais la qualité du site justifie ces frais. Une belle sortie nature en Haute-Loire."

"Expected cross-country skiing opportunities during winter visit but discovered current park regulations restrict access to walking only. The 300m elevation gain provides decent hiking, though disappointing for skiing enthusiasts. Worth checking activity permissions before visiting, especially in winter when regulations may vary seasonally."

"Peaceful winter walk through protected forest with excellent interpretive signage about local flora and fauna. The trail remains accessible year-round for hiking only, which helps preserve the delicate ecosystem. Plan for about 90 minutes to complete the full circuit and bring proper winter gear as conditions can change quickly at this altitude."

"Pleasant nature walk but felt somewhat restrictive due to various park regulations. The natural setting is undeniably beautiful with old-growth forest sections and mountain vistas. However, the limitations on activities and pet restrictions might disappoint some visitors. Best suited for those seeking a quiet, contemplative hiking experience rather than adventure sports or family outings with dogs."

"Nice lake with clear water, though some pollution concerns are evident from agricultural runoff. The 10-meter depth makes it interesting for fishing enthusiasts who can catch perch and pike. Access can be challenging as bridge crossings over the river are limited. Despite these issues, it remains a refreshing summer destination for those seeking a quick nature break near the city."

"Coup de cœur pour cette randonnée facile d'une heure et demie ! Le lac de Saint-Front est un véritable havre de paix avec ses reflets magnifiques. Les 300 mètres de dénivelé permettent de prendre de la hauteur pour admirer le panorama. Certes, l'accès est payant et les chiens interdits, mais la beauté du lieu et l'entretien des sentiers valent largement ces contraintes."

"Magnifique sortie nature en Haute-Loire ! Le cadre du lac de Saint-Front est absolument splendide et la montée de 300 mètres offre de superbes panoramas sur la région. Même si l'accès est payant, la qualité de l'expérience justifie largement l'investissement. Une durée parfaite d'une heure et demie pour profiter pleinement du site sans se presser."

"Winter visit revealed stunning snow-covered pine forests and frozen lake views. The trail remains accessible for snowshoeing and winter walking, offering a completely different perspective from summer visits. The contrast between the white landscape and dark cembra pines creates incredible photo opportunities. Restaurant facilities were limited during winter season but the natural beauty more than compensated."

"Lovely zen hike in a calm natural setting. Went with friends and we particularly appreciated the soothing sounds of the nearby water. The elevation gain felt very manageable for our mixed fitness group. Be aware that dogs aren't allowed which might disappoint some visitors. The peaceful atmosphere makes it perfect for those seeking a restorative outdoor experience."

"Pleasant family hike with manageable elevation gain. The children enjoyed spotting wildlife and wildflowers along the path. Some sections were muddy after recent rain, making footing a bit tricky. Note that dogs aren't permitted and parking requires payment. Despite these minor inconveniences, it's a nice escape into nature for a half-day outing."

"This solo hike offered exactly the kind of solitude and natural beauty I was seeking. The 6.5km trail with its 200m elevation gain is manageable for most fitness levels, and I spotted several bird species that made it perfect for wildlife observation. The lake itself is serene and ideal for contemplation. While parking costs and access fees apply, visiting during late afternoon provides exceptional lighting for photography and makes the experience truly special."

"Decent hiking trail but be aware that access requires payment and dogs are not permitted within the reserve boundaries. The winter restrictions can be disappointing if you're planning specific activities like cross-country skiing. Trail conditions were good but the regulations felt quite strict compared to other regional hiking spots. Worth visiting for the natural beauty despite the limitations."

"Decent hiking trail but was disappointed to learn that cross-country skiing isn't permitted during winter months despite the terrain seeming suitable. The 300m elevation gain provides a good workout without being too challenging. Regulations seem quite strict regarding activities allowed, so definitely check current rules before visiting to avoid disappointment like we experienced."