The best walks and hikes around Barrage De Panneciere Chaumard

There are nearly 20 hiking trails documented on komoot around Barrage De Panneciere Chaumard, offering a variety of experiences. These include 6 easy routes, 11 moderate routes, and 2 more challenging options, ensuring there's something for every fitness level.

The region is characterized by the expansive Lac de Pannecière, the largest of the Morvan lakes, surrounded by dense forests, rolling hills, and lush valleys. You'll encounter picturesque views of the lake, the impressive Barrage de Pannecière dam, and the tranquil 'le petit lac' (compensation basin). The trails wind through the natural beauty of the Morvan Regional Natural Park.

Yes, there are several easy routes suitable for families. An excellent option is the Pannecière Dam – Lake Chaumard-Pannecière loop from Barrage de Pannecière Chaumard, which is about 5.6 km and offers pleasant views of the dam and the main lake. Another easy choice is the Pont des Vouas over the Yonne – La Côte de La Morelle loop from Les Soulins, covering 6.9 km with scenic countryside views.

Many of the trails in the area are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Pannecière Chaumard Reservoir – Montigny-en-Morvan Church loop from Cité de Pannecière is a moderate 10.6 km circular route through wooded hills. The Montigny-en-Morvan Church – Yonne loop from Les Brots is another moderate circular option, spanning about 14.4 km.

Beyond the stunning lake views, the monumental Barrage de Pannecière dam itself is an impressive attraction; you can cross it to admire the surroundings. The area also features picturesque hamlets and remarkable natural sites. For those interested in the dam's history, a large-scale model is available at its foot. The village of Chaumard also has beautiful facade paintings to discover.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 230 reviews. Hikers often praise the expansive lake views, the tranquility of the dense forests, and the varied terrain of rolling hills. The diversity of routes, from easy strolls to more challenging treks, is also frequently highlighted.

Yes, the Morvan Regional Natural Park, where Lac de Pannecière is located, generally welcomes dogs on trails, provided they are kept under control, especially in areas with wildlife or livestock. It's always recommended to keep your dog on a leash to protect the local fauna and ensure a pleasant experience for all hikers.

For those seeking a longer challenge, the region offers several moderate to difficult routes. The Chapelle – Faubouloin Chapel loop from Corancy is a moderate 14.8 km hike with significant elevation gain. Another option is the 14.4 km Montigny-en-Morvan Church – Yonne loop from Les Brots, which is also rated as moderate.

Public transport options directly to the more remote trailheads around Barrage De Panneciere Chaumard can be limited. It is generally recommended to travel by car to access the various starting points for hikes. Some villages like Chaumard or Montigny-en-Morvan may have limited bus services, but checking local schedules in advance is advisable.

Parking is typically available near the main points of interest and village centers. For instance, you can usually find parking near the Barrage de Pannecière dam itself, or in villages like Chaumard, Cité de Pannecière, or Les Soulins, which serve as common starting points for many of the trails.

Lac de Pannecière is a significant refuge for numerous waterfowl species, especially during winter. Birdwatchers might spot great crested grebes, great cormorants, grey herons, egrets, mallards, pintails, scaups, and mergansers. The surrounding forests and valleys are also home to various other woodland creatures.

Yes, Lac de Pannecière is popular for fishing. While hiking, you'll often see anglers along the shores. During the summer, guided tours of the lake and dam are also offered, providing a different perspective of the area. For specific water activities like swimming or boating, it's best to check local regulations and designated areas.