The best walks and hikes around Lac De L'Escourou
4.4
(88)
392
hikers
36
hikes
Hiking around Lac De L'Escourou offers diverse trails within a serene natural setting. The region is characterized by the lake, the largest water reservoir in Aquitaine, spanning approximately 120 hectares with extensively wooded banks. This Natura 2000 classified site features rolling fields and wooded hills, providing tranquil, bucolic landscapes. The area's unique position allows hikers to traverse two different departments, Dordogne and Lot-et-Garonne, on a single route.
Best hiking trails around Lac De L'Escourou
- The most popular hiking route is…
Last updated: May 10, 2026
4.8
(34)
169
hikers
7.50km
01:57
50m
50m
Hike the easy 4.7-mile Lac de l'Escourou loop, offering tranquil lake views and educational insights into local wildlife.
5.0
(4)
37
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.5
(2)
11
hikers
9.06km
02:25
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(3)
11
hikers
10.6km
02:49
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
6
hikers
6.30km
01:42
90m
90m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Created in 1992, Lake Escourou took a year to fill. It is dammed on the Escourou, a tributary of the Dropt. Nearly 30 years later and the artificial lake is a Natura 2000 classified site. Hosting fishing and windsurfing competitions, it also serves as a training area for the region's firefighting planes, Canadair. Swimming is prohibited there, which has allowed the fauna and flora to establish themselves. Please note: the part of the road on the left bank along the lake is strictly prohibited. If you stay on the asphalt road, you will return to the lake via "La Robinette".
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The part of the route on the left bank along the lake is strictly forbidden! Seemed risky too. If you stay on the asphalt road you will return to the lake via "La Robinette".
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Path on the left bank is forbidden! If you stay on the asphalt road through "La Robinette" you will come back to the lake.
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The part of the route on the left bank along the lake is strictly forbidden! Seemed risky too. If you stay on the asphalt road via "la Robinette" you will come back to the lake.
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Created in 1992, the Escourou lake took a year to fill up. It is dammed on the Escourou, a tributary of the Dropt. Nearly 30 years later, the artificial lake is a Natura 2000 listed site. Hosting fishing and windsurfing competitions, it also serves as a training area for the region's firefighting planes, Canadair. Swimming is prohibited there, which has allowed the fauna and flora to settle.
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Created in 1992, the Escourou lake took a year to fill up. It is dammed on the Escourou, a tributary of the Dropt. Almost 30 years later and the artificial lake is a Natura 2000 listed site. Hosting fishing and windsurfing competitions, it also serves as a training area for the region's firefighting planes, the Canadair. Swimming is prohibited there, which has allowed the fauna and flora to establish themselves.
3
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Wonderful for bird watching
2
0
Be quiet to see the kingfisher
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1
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Lac De L'Escourou?
There are over 35 hiking routes around Lac De L'Escourou, offering a variety of experiences. These include 16 easy trails and 19 moderate trails, ensuring options for different fitness levels.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes around Lac De L'Escourou?
Yes, Lac De L'Escourou is well-suited for family outings with several easy trails. The Tour of Lake l'Escourou Trail is an easy 7.5 km loop that takes less than two hours, offering tranquil lake views and educational insights into local wildlife. Another great option is The cormorants of Eymet – Lac de l'Escourrou loop from Bienvenu au Lac, a shorter 3.9 km easy path.
Can I find circular walks around Lac De L'Escourou?
Yes, many of the trails around Lac De L'Escourou are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Lac de l'Escourrou – Lake L'Escourou loop from Bienvenu au Lac is a moderate 10.6 km route that circles the lake, taking you through wooded hills and rolling fields.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while hiking here?
Hikers can expect diverse and serene natural landscapes. The trails wind along the peaceful lake shores, through dense forests, and across rolling fields. The area is characterized by extensively wooded banks and bucolic scenery, with the lake itself being the largest water reservoir in Aquitaine. You might even traverse two different departments, Dordogne and Lot-et-Garonne, on a single route.
Are there opportunities for wildlife observation during hikes?
Absolutely. Lac De L'Escourou is a Natura 2000 classified site, making it ecologically important. The trails provide excellent opportunities to observe diverse local flora and fauna, including colorful birds and discreet mammals. An interpretive trail with information panels, observation huts, and a pontoon is available for enhanced wildlife viewing, particularly for birdwatching.
What do other hikers say about the trails around Lac De L'Escourou?
The trails around Lac De L'Escourou are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 80 reviews. Hikers often praise the tranquil lake views, the well-marked paths, and the opportunities to observe local wildlife in a serene natural setting.
Are there any longer, more challenging hikes available?
While there are no 'difficult' graded trails, you can find moderate routes that offer a longer experience. The Lac de l'Escourrou – Lake L'Escourou loop from La Sauvetat-du-Dropt is a moderate 9 km route that takes approximately 2 hours and 25 minutes, providing a good workout with varied scenery.
What is the best time of year to go hiking at Lac De L'Escourou?
The extensively wooded banks around Lac De L'Escourou create pleasant hiking conditions throughout the year. Spring and autumn offer comfortable temperatures and beautiful foliage, while the tree cover provides shade during warmer summer months. Even in winter, the trails are accessible, offering a tranquil experience.
Are there places to picnic or rest along the trails?
Yes, picnic areas with tables and benches are available by the water, perfect for enjoying the views and taking a break during or after your walk. These spots are ideal for a leisurely stop amidst the natural beauty of the lake.
What nearby villages or attractions can I explore after a hike?
The area provides easy access to charming nearby villages that offer cultural experiences, local markets, and historical sites. You can visit Eymet, Monpazier, and Issigeac for a delightful extension to your outdoor adventure. For more information on the region, you can visit pays-bergerac-tourisme.com.
Is swimming allowed in Lac De L'Escourou?
No, swimming is prohibited in Lac De L'Escourou. This measure is in place to protect the established fauna and flora, as the lake is a Natura 2000 classified site with significant ecological importance. However, the lake is popular for fishing and has hosted windsurfing competitions.
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