The best MTB trails around Écully

Écully and its surrounding areas offer a wide selection of mountain bike trails, with over 400 routes available. These include 96 easy trails, 233 moderate trails, and 90 difficult trails, catering to various skill levels.

The terrain around Écully is characterized by green hills and wooded areas, particularly within the Bois de Serres, which features forest trails and paths along streams. As a gateway to the Monts du Lyonnais, you'll also encounter varied and undulating terrain, offering diverse routes from gentle slopes to more challenging ascents.

Yes, Écully offers several options suitable for families. There are 96 easy trails available, many of which are shorter loops through local green spaces like the Bois de Serres. These provide a pleasant experience for riders of all ages.

Many outdoor areas around Écully, including parts of the Bois de Serres, are generally dog-friendly. However, it's always recommended to keep your dog on a leash, especially in wooded areas where wildlife is present, and to check specific trail regulations before you go.

The spring and autumn months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for mountain biking around Écully and in the Monts du Lyonnais, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can also be good, but it's advisable to ride earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat. Winter riding is possible, but trails may be muddy or icy depending on conditions.

Écully is well-connected to Lyon, making it accessible by public transport. Many trailheads also offer parking options. For example, routes like the Yzeron Bridge – Yzeron Valley loop from Valmy often have nearby parking facilities, or you can start from urban areas with public transport links.

The region offers several notable viewpoints and landmarks. Trails often lead to scenic spots like the Col de la Luère, which provides spectacular panoramic views of the Lyonnais mountains. You might also encounter historical sites such as the Fort du Paillet or the Rochetaillée-sur-Saône Castle, adding cultural interest to your ride.

Yes, the majority of mountain bike trails around Écully are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Yzeron Valley – Forest path loop from Écully-la-Demi-Lune and the Chemin du Haut-Poirier – Col de la Croix du Ban loop from Écully-la-Demi-Lune, which offer convenient circular journeys.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 1,800 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, from the peaceful wooded valleys to the more challenging ascents in the Monts du Lyonnais, and the accessibility from Lyon.

Écully itself is a residential area with local amenities, including cafes and restaurants. As you venture into the Monts du Lyonnais, you'll find villages with options for refreshments and accommodation. For more information on the region, you can visit visiterlyon.com.

Absolutely. For beginners or those looking for a relaxed ride, there are 96 easy trails. A good option is the Yzeron Valley – Yzeron Bridge loop from Écully-la-Demi-Lune, which offers a gentle introduction to the area's natural beauty.

Experienced riders seeking a challenge can explore the 90 difficult trails in the region. The Rampau Cross Viewpoint – The S-curves of Mont Verdun loop from Lyon-Vaise is a demanding route with significant elevation gain, leading through varied terrain and offering rewarding views.