Hiking Réserve naturelle nationale de la vallée de Chaudefour - panoramic view  tree outdoor landscape nature mountain sky autumn plant cloud background lake painting forest surrounded distance
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Hiking in Réserve naturelle nationale de la vallée de Chaudefour: trails, map and practical info

Puy-de-Dôme • Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

4.7 Appreciated by 18 hikers
François Dumaine
By François DumaineContributor since 2022Updated 07/05/2026
Difficulty
Moderate
Distance
8 km
Elevation
500 ft
Duration
3h30
Max altitude
1,886 ft
Recommended for :
Intermediate hikers

Ready to explore Réserve naturelle nationale de la vallée de Chaudefour? Here's everything you need to know before you go!

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Trail description

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Ready to go?

Everything you need to know before you go

Where?

Address
Vallée de, Chaudefour, 63790 Chambon-sur-Lac, France
GPS coordinates
45.533303, 2.84931
Phone
04 73 88 68 80

Starting Point

The trailhead for the Chaudefour Valley National Nature Reserve is located in Saint-Agrève, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes.

When?

Opening hours
From sunrise to sunset
Varies by season
Best season
Fall
Spectacular colors
Best time
Early morning
Less crowded
Weather (next days)
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How much?

Entry fees
Adult
Not available
Child
What to bring?
Gear
  • Hiking shoes Essential
  • Layered clothing Essential
  • Rain jacket Essential
  • Trekking poles
  • Headlamp
Download the PDF checklist
Water & food
2L minimum
No water point on the trail
Bring energy snacks for a 4h+ hike
Good to know
Park rules
No dogs
Safety
Download the GPX before you go
Limited cellular coverage on the trail
Slippery after rain
Be careful on rocky sections
In an emergency
Emergency
911
Parking GPS
45.533303, 2.84931
Center
04 73 88 68 80

Hikers' opinions

4.7
7 Reviews
R1
Review 1
Sep 15, 2024
Hiked in early autumn when the colors were absolutely breathtaking. The various viewpoints overlooking the valley left us speechless. With 500m elevation gain, it's a rewarding climb that offers stunning photographic opportunities at every turn. Only downside was the lack of facilities along the trail, but the natural beauty more than compensates. Perfect spot for photography enthusiasts seeking dramatic landscapes.
R2
Review 2
Aug 22, 2024
An incredible day spent at Chaudefour Nature Reserve! The well-marked trails offer beautiful landscape diversity across the valley. We appreciated the tranquility of the area, perfect for family hiking despite the 500m elevation gain. The children loved observing the numerous bird species in this magnificent setting. The peaceful atmosphere makes it an ideal escape from busy life.
R7
Review 7
Aug 12, 2024
The valley is really beautiful and you can taste the sparkling water of the Sainte Anne spring 👍 This natural spring provides refreshing hydration during the hike, especially welcome given the 500m elevation gain. The geological features and pristine water sources add to the reserve's unique character and make the climbing effort worthwhile.
R5
Review 5
Aug 5, 2024
Fantastic walk, I took my kids (4 and 6) to the 'fond du vallée' walk, which is around 5km-3hour round trip. And they both made it, in a heat of 32 degrees Celsius. The second waterfall is not really worth it but the walk through the valley definitely is. The well-maintained paths make it manageable for young children despite the distance.
R6
Review 6
Jul 28, 2024
Really nice place, easy to hike and you have the choice of your destination depending on your objective. The reserve offers multiple trail options accommodating different fitness levels, though the main route involves 500m elevation gain. The flexibility to choose shorter or longer routes makes it accessible for various hiking experiences and time constraints.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know
Moderate
500.00
1886.00
3h30
No
No
The Chaudefour Valley National Nature Reserve trail is 8 km long and takes approximately 3h30 to complete. This moderate hike offers a good workout for those looking for a half-day outdoor adventure.
The Chaudefour Valley National Nature Reserve is rated as moderate difficulty. With 500 meters of elevation gain over 8 km, hikers should have a reasonable level of fitness and some hiking experience.
The Chaudefour Valley National Nature Reserve has a moderate difficulty rating, which may be challenging for complete beginners. The 500-meter elevation gain and 3h30 duration require a reasonable fitness level and some hiking experience.
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Update : June 2026