Last weekend Archie and I walked the Boucle Henri IV, a 10.1 km loop near Nérac in Lot-et-Garonne. It’s rated moderate, with about 166 meters of climbing, and takes roughly 2.5 to 3 hours.
The route starts on a cultivated hillside, crosses a bridge over the Gélise river, and then heads into the edge of the Landes forest. The second half is mostly pine forest on soft, sandy paths, with ferns turning rust-orange for autumn. It’s shady, quiet, and a good walk for a dog.
The highlight for Archie came partway through: a paddock with three black donkeys, who lined up along the fence to inspect him. He was just as curious about them.
If you’re looking for an easy-to-reach forest walk near Nérac, this one is worth an outing. Dogs are welcome on a leash.
Hike details
- Starting point: Parking area on Rue du Moulin des Tours at the Moulin de Barbaste, Nérac, 47600 (trailhead coordinates 44.16856, 0.29053)
- Length: 10.1 km loop
- Climbing level: Moderate, about 166 meters of elevation gain (roughly 2.5 to 3 hours)
