The best walks and hikes around Barcelonnette
4.5
(2388)
20,173
hikers
446
hikes
Hiking around Barcelonnette offers diverse terrain within the Ubaye Valley, characterized by mountains exceeding 3000 meters, including the Needle of Chambeyron. The region features extensive alpine landscapes, numerous lakes, and significant mountain passes. Parts of the Mercantour National Park are accessible from Barcelonnette, providing a range of trails through varied environments.
Best hiking trails around Barcelonnette
- The most popular hiking route is Lacs de la petite Cayolle et des Garrets – loop in the heart of the Mercantour National Park, a 5.6 miles (9.0 km) difficult trail that takes 3 hours 29 minutes to complete. This route explores alpine lakes within the Mercantour National Park.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Costeplane Waterfalls Loop, an easy 2.8 miles (4.6 km) path. This accessible trail features refreshing cascades and takes about 1 hour 18 minutes.
- Local hikers also love the Lac des Neuf Couleurs Loop Trail, an 11.3 miles (18.2 km) trail leading through mountainous terrain to an alpine lake, often completed in about 7 hours 46 minutes.
- Hiking around Barcelonnette is defined by high mountain passes, alpine lakes, and the diverse landscapes of the Ubaye Valley and Mercantour National Park. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy walks to challenging alpine treks.
- The routes in Barcelonnette are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 2300 reviews. More than 20000 hikers have used komoot to explore Barcelonnette's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 24, 2026
4.9
(65)
527
hikers
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.7
(88)
314
hikers
4.58km
01:18
100m
100m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
5.0
(28)
374
hikers
18.2km
07:50
1,100m
1,090m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.6
(38)
426
hikers
14.2km
05:00
600m
600m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.7
(15)
201
hikers
13.3km
05:03
530m
530m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
5.0
(27)
182
hikers
12.3km
05:52
840m
840m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.7
(3)
20
hikers
8.26km
03:21
660m
660m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.5
(2)
22
hikers
19.5km
06:34
950m
950m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
7.57km
02:32
360m
360m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.0
(5)
15
hikers
Hard hike. Great for any fitness level. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
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
Popular around Barcelonnette
Other adventures around Barcelonnette
Tips from the Community
The Vallon du Lauzanier is a magnificent space, little frequented in winter
0
0
This is a gîte run by two very nice young people. It's a very good restaurant at a very reasonable price
0
0
Hill located on the Italian-French border
0
0
In September with a strong water flow, it's magnificent. Not to be missed under any circumstances.
1
0
Superb, but be aware, access by car is not easy.
0
0
Nothing exceptional, but worth seeing.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Barcelonnette?
Barcelonnette offers a vast network of over 450 hiking trails, catering to all skill levels from easy walks to challenging alpine treks within the Ubaye Valley and Mercantour National Park.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or casual walkers?
Yes, Barcelonnette has over 100 easy hiking trails. A popular choice is the Costeplane Waterfalls Loop, an accessible 2.8-mile path featuring refreshing cascades.
Where can I find more challenging hikes around Barcelonnette?
For experienced hikers, Barcelonnette offers over 130 difficult trails. Consider the Lacs de la petite Cayolle et des Garrets – loop, a 5.6-mile route exploring alpine lakes, or the longer Lac des Neuf Couleurs Loop Trail, an 11.3-mile journey through mountainous terrain.
Are there any hikes that feature waterfalls?
Yes, the region boasts beautiful waterfalls. The Costeplane Waterfalls Loop is an excellent option for an accessible trail with refreshing cascades.
Can I find circular or loop hikes in the Barcelonnette area?
Many trails around Barcelonnette are designed as loops. Examples include the Lacs de la petite Cayolle et des Garrets loop and the Lac des Neuf Couleurs Loop Trail, both offering stunning alpine scenery.
What kind of natural landmarks or viewpoints can I expect to see on hikes?
The region is rich in natural beauty. You can discover stunning alpine lakes like Lac du Lauzanier and Lake of Nine Colours. The impressive Pont-du-Châtelet, a stone arch bridge spanning the Ubaye River, is also a notable sight.
Are there family-friendly hiking options around Barcelonnette?
Yes, many trails are suitable for families. The Costeplane Waterfalls Loop is an easy and accessible option. Additionally, the Tour of the Siguret water plan in Mercantour National Park offers a moderate 3.3-mile walk.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Barcelonnette?
The trails in Barcelonnette are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 2300 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse landscapes, from high mountain passes and alpine lakes to the varied terrain of the Ubaye Valley and Mercantour National Park.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Barcelonnette?
The best time for hiking in Barcelonnette is typically from late spring to early autumn (May to October), when the weather is mild, and mountain passes are clear of snow. Summer offers lush landscapes and access to high-altitude trails, while autumn provides vibrant colors.
Are there any specific trails that lead to alpine lakes?
Absolutely. The region is dotted with stunning alpine lakes. Popular routes include the Lac du Lauzanier and Lac de Derrière la Croix Trail, the Lac de l'Oronaye Trail, and the Circuit of the 4 Lakes.
Is it possible to hike to any mountain passes for panoramic views?
Yes, Barcelonnette is surrounded by renowned mountain passes offering breathtaking panoramic views. The Col de Séolane via the Hamlet of Laverq is a moderate hike that leads to one such pass.
Are there options for public transport to reach hiking trailheads?
While specific public transport routes to every trailhead can vary, Barcelonnette itself is a central hub. It's advisable to check local bus schedules or regional transport services for connections to villages or starting points of trails further afield.
Are there any specific permits required for hiking in Mercantour National Park?
Generally, day hikes within Mercantour National Park do not require specific permits. However, certain regulations apply, especially concerning camping, dogs, and protected areas. Always check the official Mercantour National Park website for the latest guidelines before your visit.
Most popular routes around Barcelonnette
Most popular attractions around Barcelonnette
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Didn’t find what you were looking for?
Check out more Hikes throughout Barcelonnette below and find the perfect route in your destination.
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
