Le Lac D'issarlès: Maar Lake, Volcano and Hiking Trails

Lac d’Issarlès fills an ancient maar crater. It lies at an altitude of 1,000 metres, covers 97 hectares and is up to 108 metres deep. Volcan du Cherchemuse rises above the lake; the Strombolian volcano adds a second striking volcanic feature to the landscape. Together, the body of water and volcanic terrain shape the character of this destination.

Lake, Volcano and Viewpoints

A shaded, signposted footpath runs for about 3.6 kilometres around Lac d’Issarlès. Another signposted hiking trail leads to the heights of Volcan du Cherchemuse; from the summit, you can enjoy a 380-degree view across Montagne d’Ardèche. The trails differ in focus: one circles the lake, while the other climbs into the volcanic heights. You can choose between a lakeside loop and a hike to higher ground.

Near Lac d’Issarlès, Belvédère du Col du Gage offers a view of the entire lake after a 15-minute walk. This is a different perspective from the summit of Volcan du Cherchemuse: at the Belvédère, the lake is in full view, while the summit offers views across Montagne d’Ardèche. When choosing a viewpoint, consider whether the lake or the highland scenery matters more to you.

Caves and Architecture

The Grottes troglodytiques are located near Lac d’Issarlès. They were created in the deposits from the maar crater eruption, recently restored and made accessible, and are open to visitors. A well-maintained 300-metre path leads to the caves. They offer a glimpse of how dwellings were designed at the time. The term “troglodytic” refers to caves as a form of dwelling; here, geological origins and the history of habitation come together.

Eglise du Lac d’Issarlès is a Romanesque-Gothic church dating from the 11th century. Its portal porch is flanked by two towers. Its style and century identify the church, while the two-towered portal porch is a specific architectural feature of the entrance.

Activities on the Water

Pedal boats, canoes and stand-up paddleboards can be rented at Lac d’Issarlès. Rentals are seasonal; check availability before your trip if you plan to use one of these options. Swimming is supervised in July and August. If swimming or renting a boat is important to you, check the relevant seasonal information in advance. This way, you can take both the different rental options and seasonal swimming supervision into account when planning.

The lake is also a first-category fishing water. Fish species include brown and rainbow trout, Arctic char, salmon, minnows, gudgeons and Coregonus. Alongside swimming and rental options, fishing and the lake’s fish species are further things to consider during your stay.

Visit to Ferme de La Louvèche

Ferme de La Louvèche can be visited by prior reservation. Cheese, cured meats and pork are produced on site. Remember that a reservation is required if you plan to visit.

Discover more destinations: Largentière, Saint-Péray, Chirols, Saint Agreve, Arlebosc, Villeneuve-De-Berg, Le Teil, Antraigues-Sur-Volane.

Return to the main travel overview: Ardèche.