The best walks and hikes around Maynal
4.5
(69)
372
hikers
60
hikes
Hiking around Maynal reveals a landscape characterized by deep valleys, known locally as "reculées," and forested hillsides. The region features a network of trails leading to scenic viewpoints and through mossy woodlands, offering varied terrain for outdoor exploration. These hiking routes Maynal provide opportunities to experience the natural features of the area, including its geological formations and dense tree cover.
Best hiking trails around Maynal
- The most popular hiking route is The reculée of Gizia — loop via Chatel,…
Last updated: June 22, 2026
4.7
(14)
81
hikers
6.07km
02:08
250m
260m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
3.4
(5)
11
hikers
11.8km
03:31
350m
350m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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4.7
(3)
15
hikers
5.60km
01:37
140m
140m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
4
hikers
15.9km
05:06
560m
560m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
5.0
(1)
3
hikers
4.49km
01:22
150m
160m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Visited in winter with Kïara my dog, very pretty trail
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This small, remote village hosted a large religious community, including the Benedictines of Gigny from 974 to 1359.
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The Chanelet belvedere or Gizia cross belvedere offers superb views of the valley, the Bresse plain, and even the Côte-d'Or on a clear day.
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Perched between Bresse and Revermont, this small village is home to the eponymous castle. Dating from the 12th century, the building dominates the Bresse plain from its rocky promontory located at an altitude of 470 meters. Largely in ruins, it can be visited free of charge all year round.
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Châtel is intimately linked to the history of the Via Cluny paths. This quiet little village has housed a large religious community. Marked by the presence of the Benedictines of Gigny from 974 to 1359, Manassès III de Coligny made Châtel a Benedictine priory linked to the abbey of Gigny. The abbey of Cluny then named "the prior of Châtel", while the church of Saint-Etienne de Châtel became the seat of a vast parish.
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Charming Romanesque style church.
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Located on the first foothills of the Jura massif, the Château de Chevreaux is perched on a promontory at an altitude of 470 metres. It already existed in 1158, and since that date several families have succeeded. In 1637, the French army completely destroyed the site. The castle is in ruins but its reconstruction is in progress thanks to the Friends of Chevreaux Châtel association. Here, you can see different craftsmen at work: stone cutters, ironworkers, blacksmiths.
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Located at the end of the remote Gizia, the belvedere offers a superb view. Remember to look up, maybe you will see a peregrine falcon!
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Maynal?
There are over 50 hiking trails around Maynal, offering a variety of options for different skill levels. You'll find routes exploring deep valleys, forested hillsides, and mossy woodlands.
What kind of terrain can I expect on hikes in Maynal?
Hiking around Maynal is characterized by deep valleys, locally known as "reculées," and forested hillsides. Trails often lead through mossy woodlands and offer scenic viewpoints, providing varied terrain for exploration.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or families in Maynal?
Yes, Maynal offers a good selection of easy hikes. There are 21 easy routes available, such as the Mossy Woods Trail loop from Beaufort-Orbagna, which is a 2.8-mile (4.5 km) trail perfect for a relaxed outing.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Maynal?
The hiking trails in Maynal are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 50 reviews. Hikers often praise the distinctive valley formations, scenic viewpoints, and the tranquil experience of walking through mossy woodlands.
Are there any circular hiking routes in Maynal?
Many of the trails in Maynal are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include The reculée of Gizia — loop via Chatel and The Gizia Reculée – Chanelet Viewpoint loop from Cuisia, both offering diverse landscapes.
What are some notable viewpoints or landmarks to see while hiking in Maynal?
While hiking in Maynal, you can discover several interesting points. The Chanelet Viewpoint offers panoramic vistas, and you might also encounter historical sites like Chevreaux Castle. The charming settlements of Cuiseaux and Châtel are also worth exploring.
How long do hikes in Maynal typically take?
Hike durations vary depending on the route and your pace. For instance, the moderate The reculée of Gizia — loop via Chatel typically takes around 2 hours and 8 minutes, while longer routes like Chevreaux – Chanelet Viewpoint loop from Cousance can take over 4 hours.
Are there any moderate difficulty hikes for more experienced hikers?
Yes, Maynal offers 31 moderate difficulty hikes. A popular choice is Chanelet Viewpoint – Gizia Church loop from Gizia, which is an 8.5 km (5.3 miles) trail with varied elevation, providing a rewarding challenge.
What are the most common features highlighted in Maynal's hiking routes?
The most common features highlighted in Maynal's hiking routes are its distinctive deep valleys (reculées), scenic viewpoints offering expansive views, and the serene experience of walking through dense, mossy woodlands. Many trails also incorporate charming local villages.
Can I find routes that combine natural beauty with historical sites?
Absolutely. Some routes in Maynal allow you to experience both the natural landscape and historical elements. For example, you can find trails that pass near Chevreaux Castle or through historic settlements like Châtel, offering a blend of scenery and heritage.
How many people have explored Maynal's trails using komoot?
More than 300 hikers have used komoot to explore Maynal's varied terrain, indicating a vibrant community enjoying the region's outdoor offerings.
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