The best walks and hikes around Coulandon
4.6
(138)
934
hikers
127
hikes
Hiking around Coulandon offers access to a rural landscape characterized by dense woodlands, undulating plateaus, and tranquil river valleys. The commune is nestled within the Bocage Bourbonnais, an area known for its lush meadows and hedgerows, with the Queune river contributing to the picturesque scenery. This region provides a peaceful setting for outdoor activities, with its local natural features and proximity to larger forest massifs like the Forêt de Moladier.
Best hiking trails around Coulandon
- The most popular hiking route…
Last updated: July 6, 2026
3.7
(3)
13
hikers
11.6km
03:02
80m
80m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
10.9km
02:53
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(3)
7
hikers
10.1km
02:38
70m
70m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
hikers
10.8km
02:52
120m
120m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
11.8km
03:08
120m
120m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
This ford, located a few kilometers before Moulins, can be very slippery. You arrive there after a 600 m descent at 7%, so be careful!
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The town of Souvigny was chosen by the Bourbon dynasty as the religious capital of its duchy. Thus, the commune became the necropolis of all the Bourbon lords.
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12th century church composed of a nave of three bays, a fourth bay forming a choir, and a semi-circular apse. Transepts were added. The south chapel was added in the 15th century and the north chapel in the mid-19th century. The facade has a heavy gable at the bottom of which opens a door with a trefoiled tympanum (12th century) under two ores scrolls, crowned by a cornice and corbels. The portal is decorated with sculptures (angel's head; goat's head; flora; man with accentuated virility; chimera or griffin...). The bell tower has two floors, the first being decorated on its four sides with three blind arcatures; the second, which contains the belfry, has each face pierced with three bays separated by twin columns. Of Romanesque origin, this church was remodeled in the 17th century (two chapels), then in the 19th century. Its three-bay nave is unique and its choir is narrower. It has a portal with a trefoiled tympanum and capitals decorated with curved leaves, heads and griffins.
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Free visit to the exteriors all year round. Beautiful ensemble consisting of a quadrangular main building (17th century) flanked by square turrets topped with imperial roofs cushioned by slate lanterns. Set also composed of the chapel (1720), the dovecote, the granary with an inverted boat hull frame (dated 1617), the Reserve house with its half-timbering (15th century). A French terraced garden (1840) decorates the premises. Since 1696, the property has been in the same family.
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A medieval village in Bourbonnais, a major Cluniac site and former necropolis of the Dukes of Bourbon, this is a must-see. Stop by the abbey church, visit the local artisan shop, Chez Aristide, and stroll through the narrow streets. Don't miss the medieval festival at the end of July!
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Souvigny is a French commune located in the Allier department in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. Located in the heart of Bourbonnais, the city is the cradle of the Bourbon family, of which it was an important city of the lordship of Bourbon. It preserves an exceptional heritage linked to its affiliation with the powerful abbey of Cluny. In addition to the recumbent figures of the last Dukes of Bourbon, the priory church, the largest religious building in the Allier department, preserves the relics of several saints, including those of two abbots of Cluny who died in Souvigny: Mayeul, 4th abbot (died in 994), and Odilon his successor (died in 1049).
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Central square of the medieval village of Souvigny
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Coulandon?
Coulandon offers a wide selection of hiking opportunities, with over 115 trails recorded on komoot. These routes cater to various preferences, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging hikes through the region's diverse landscapes.
What kind of terrain can I expect on hikes near Coulandon?
Hikes around Coulandon feature a mix of dense woodlands, tranquil river valleys, and open meadows. You'll encounter the serene beauty of the Forêt de Moladier with its ancient oaks and beeches, and the picturesque, hedgerow-lined landscapes of the Bocage Bourbonnais, often traversed by the Queune river.
Are there easy hiking options suitable for beginners in Coulandon?
Yes, Coulandon provides numerous easy hiking options perfect for beginners or those seeking a relaxed walk. Approximately 48 of the trails are rated as easy, allowing you to enjoy the rural charm and natural beauty without significant difficulty. These routes typically feature gentle gradients and well-maintained paths.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Coulandon?
The region around Coulandon is enjoyable for hiking throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, with blooming wildflowers or colorful foliage. Summer is also suitable, especially for shaded forest trails like those in the Forêt de Moladier. Winter hikes can be beautiful, though some paths might be muddy, so appropriate footwear is recommended.
Are there any circular hiking routes around Coulandon?
Yes, many of the trails around Coulandon are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Forêt de Moladier loop from Chemilly offers a moderate 10 km circuit through the forest. Another option is the Water Crossing loop from Moulins, which provides a moderate 10.7 km experience.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails in Coulandon?
Many trails in the Coulandon area are dog-friendly, especially those through the extensive woodlands like the Forêt de Moladier and the open countryside of the Bocage Bourbonnais. It's always advisable to keep your dog on a leash, especially near livestock or in protected natural areas, and to carry waste bags. Check individual route details on komoot for specific restrictions.
Are there family-friendly hiking trails suitable for children near Coulandon?
Coulandon offers several family-friendly hiking trails. The numerous easy-rated routes are generally suitable for children, providing shorter distances and less challenging terrain. Exploring the Forêt de Moladier can be a great adventure for families, with plenty of natural sights to discover. Always consider the length and elevation gain of a route to match your family's abilities.
What natural features or landscapes can I explore while hiking in Coulandon?
While hiking in Coulandon, you can immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Forêt de Moladier, a significant forest massif known for its ancient oaks and diverse ecosystem. You'll also encounter the serene Queune river and the characteristic green meadows and hedgerows of the Bocage Bourbonnais, offering a peaceful rural experience.
Where can I find parking for hiking trails in Coulandon?
Many hiking trails in and around Coulandon, including the local "Circuit Les carrières," often start from central points like the church square in Coulandon, where parking is typically available. For routes venturing into areas like the Forêt de Moladier, designated forest parking areas or trailheads are usually provided. Always check the starting point of your chosen route for specific parking information.
What are some interesting landmarks or attractions near Coulandon that I can visit?
Beyond the trails, the area around Coulandon offers several historical and cultural landmarks. You can visit the impressive Priory of St. Peter and St. Paul in Souvigny, explore the Fourchaud Castle, or discover the historical sites in nearby Moulins, such as the Moulins Cathedral and the Anne de Beaujeu Pavilion.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Coulandon?
The hiking experiences around Coulandon are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 100 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the quiet woodlands, the picturesque rural landscapes of the Bocage Bourbonnais, and the well-maintained paths that make for an enjoyable and peaceful outdoor adventure.
Are there any longer, more challenging hikes available near Coulandon?
While most trails are moderate, there are a few longer options for those seeking more challenge. The region's proximity to the wider Auvergne area, including the Montagne Bourbonnaise and the dramatic Sioule Gorges, offers opportunities for more extensive and varied hikes. Within the immediate area, routes like the Forêt de Moladier loop from Maison forestière de Beauregard provide a good moderate challenge at 13.7 km.
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