Lac de Bourdouze
A serene glacial lake in Auvergne, offering hiking, art, and stunning mountain views. Discover the unique 'Magic Bus' installation.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful and scenic
Lac de Bourdouze
Best Time
Peaceful and scenic
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene glacial lake in Auvergne, offering hiking, art, and stunning mountain views. Discover the unique 'Magic Bus' installation.
"A wonderful discovery! This abandoned bus in the middle of nature... is a very inspiring work."
👟 Wear Waterproof Shoes
The area can be muddy, especially near the lake. Waterproof hiking boots are recommended.
🎣 Fishing Opportunities
Known for pike and brochet fishing, it's a popular spot for anglers.
Quick Facts
Rating
4.5 · 136 reviews
Type
Natural Feature
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Magic Bus
Near Lac de Bourdouze
An inspiring art installation that blends seamlessly with nature, prompting reflection on simplicity and connection.
Panoramic Mountain Views
Surrounding trails
Breathtaking vistas of the Monts Dore and the Chaîne des Puys await hikers.
Glacial Lake Serenity
Lac de Bourdouze
A peaceful, wild glacial lake offering a tranquil escape amidst the Auvergne landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Hike
Art Meets Nature
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Waterproof Shoes
The area can be muddy, especially near the lake. Waterproof hiking boots are recommended.
🎣 Fishing Opportunities
Known for pike and brochet fishing, it's a popular spot for anglers.
🌳 Art Installation Discovery
Don't miss the 'Magic Bus' art piece for a unique, reflective experience.
🧺 Picnic Spots
Ideal for a family picnic with shaded dining areas.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Waterproof Shoes
The area can be muddy, especially near the lake. Waterproof hiking boots are recommended.
🎣 Fishing Opportunities
Known for pike and brochet fishing, it's a popular spot for anglers.
🌳 Art Installation Discovery
Don't miss the 'Magic Bus' art piece for a unique, reflective experience.
🧺 Picnic Spots
Ideal for a family picnic with shaded dining areas.
🚶♀️ Trail Limitations
Note that you can't always complete a full loop around the lake.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Lac de Bourdouze for its serene natural beauty, the inspiring 'Magic Bus' art installation, and its suitability for peaceful walks and picnics. The wild landscape and mountain views are frequently highlighted as major attractions. Some note limitations in trail accessibility and the lack of swimming facilities.
"A wonderful discovery! This abandoned bus in the middle of nature, a tribute to Christopher McCandless, is a very inspiring work. It truly invites you to slow down, observe, and reconnect with what is essential. I went there with my daughter: she loved it, and the hike beforehand, near Lake Bourdouze, is very pleasant. The place exudes a special atmosphere, somewhere between poetry and reflection on our connection to nature. A visit well worth the detour!"
Laetitia Giraud
"Very beautiful pond, its wild side with the view of the mountains 🥰"
fredo
"Hello friends, here is a very nice little walk, not very long for those who are not big walkers. The view of the lake when you arrive at the parking lot 🅿️ is already breathtaking 💨, here it is beautiful and calm. Unfortunately you can't go around. Just a part and you end up in a fir forest 🌲.. Personally I took water shoes, it's better than heels 👠😉😂👍. And just before entering the forest I took a dip. Have a good walk"
marchesseau pierre
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lac de Bourdouze is accessible by car, with parking available near the lake. It's also a popular destination for hiking routes in the Auvergne region.
Public transport options are limited. It's best to travel by car or as part of a guided hike. Check local bus schedules for nearby villages if relying on public transport.
Several hiking trails lead to or pass by Lac de Bourdouze, often starting from nearby villages or designated parking areas. The Parc des Volcans website offers detailed trail information.
Yes, there is parking available near the lake, making it accessible for those arriving by car. +1
The 'Magic Bus' is typically reached via hiking trails that lead from the vicinity of Lac de Bourdouze.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, access to Lac de Bourdouze and its surrounding natural areas is generally free.
The hiking trails around Lac de Bourdouze are free to access.
Lac de Bourdouze is an outdoor natural site and is accessible year-round during daylight hours.
Parking near Lac de Bourdouze is typically free, though it's always good to check for any local signage.
No, Lac de Bourdouze is primarily a fishing lake and swimming is not permitted.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy hiking, photography, picnicking, and observing nature. It's also a popular spot for fishing.
Facilities are minimal. It's advisable to bring your own supplies, including water and snacks. Restrooms may be available at trailheads or nearby villages.
The 'Magic Bus' is a permanent installation, accessible via the hiking trails.
The terrain can be varied, including muddy paths, forests, and open landscapes. Waterproof footwear is highly recommended.
No, it's not always possible to complete a full circuit around the lake due to terrain and forest areas.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Dining options are scarce directly at the lake. It's best to pack a picnic or dine in nearby villages like Besse-et-Saint-Anastaise.
Yes, it's an ideal spot for a picnic, with designated dining areas under the trees.
Local Auvergne cuisine, featuring hearty dishes and regional products, can be found in nearby restaurants.
Cafes and snack bars are not typically found directly at the lake. Plan to bring your own refreshments.
Small grocery stores or bakeries might be available in the closest villages. It's advisable to stock up before heading to the lake.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the serene lake, the surrounding volcanic landscapes, the 'Magic Bus' art installation, and the diverse flora and fauna.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for landscape photography.
Trails offer various vantage points overlooking the lake and the wider Auvergne panorama.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A sturdy tripod is helpful for low-light conditions.
Yes, the 'Magic Bus' is a popular subject for photographers, offering a unique blend of art and nature.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit