Route details
Description
Starting from the hamlet of "Fontaynous," observe the wildlife on this family-friendly walk around Lake Bannac. You can enjoy a picnic in the shade at the picnic tables set up around the lake. In winter, or after several days of rain, some areas around the lake become impassable or at least very marshy.
You will find a picnic area, the "Fontaynous" picnic area, located near the washhouse and the Virgin of Fontaynous. A very shaded area with a few tables and wooden benches.
This circuit is marked in yellow PR by the Martiel heritage preservation association.
Your itinerary
Step 1: Place called Fontaynous
In Fontaynous, you'll discover an old wash house, a statue of the Virgin Mary, and the hamlet's architectural heritage, including a church and the tower of the old castle. It's also a lovely spot for a picnic. When the wash house is in front of you, take the road to your left. Walk 50 meters along the road, then take the first path on your right. This leads you to the edge of the lake. Follow the lake shore to the dam that divides it in two. The nature reserve is on your left. Please be discreet!
Step 2: At the bird observation post
Cross the dam. To the left is the nature reserve. Observe the birds discreetly. Continue to your right along the lake until you reach a small wooden bridge spanning the lake's overflow stream. Go uphill and then cross the main dam of the lake. On your left, below, is the Bannac mill and its millrace.
Step 3: Continue along the banks of the lake and return to Fontaynous.
After the dam, turn right and continue walking along the lake shore. You can walk back up to the campsite snack bar for a relaxing break. Continue straight ahead. Follow the lake shore to the hamlet of Fontaynous. The lake is an artificial body of water that once powered two mills. It covers 23 hectares between the Lot and Aveyron departments and is classified as a ZNIEFF (natural area).
