Best attractions and places to see around Affoux include a blend of historical sites, natural beauty, and outdoor activities in this rural commune in the Rhône department of France. Located at an altitude of 800 meters, Affoux offers panoramic views of the Monts du Lyonnais and, on clear days, the Mont Blanc massif. The area features diverse landscapes with forests of fir, chestnut, and oak trees, alongside significant landmarks like the 18th-century Ferme d'Affoux and Église Saint-Barthélemy. The region is…
Last updated: June 24, 2026
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Some might pass by this small, sacred monument without a second glance, but perhaps a passing biker might pause for a moment before the cross and, in keeping with ancient custom, utter a "Praised be Jesus Christ." Jesus Christ died for us on the cross, for the Son of God took this death upon himself out of love for us. Christiane Völkel offers a further reflection on this: "I have discovered that it benefits my relationship with God to at least be ready for those moments when God needs me to express his love [today]."
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Cross marking the Col de Mazieux.
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The Col des Sauvages is located at an altitude of 723 m, in the Massif Central, on the watershed between the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, in the Rhône department, in the village of Sauvages, near Tarare.
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Starting point for many hikes in the surrounding area, it hosts the Valsonne drummer festival.
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Tipping point on the ridge between several valleys. Very pleasant climb from Saint Julien sur Bibost.
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Even using the cycle lane I don't feel safe: heavy road traffic and a circuit popular with motorbikes which overtake you at very high speed.
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A very beautiful site with a magnificent view at this crossroads of many roads. However, can we really speak of a pass because it is basically a cross, but this place has the whole profile to be one. In any case what is certain is that you have to go up there!
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The Col de la Croix de Mazieux from Saint-Forgeux is 6 km long with a total drop of about 298 m. The average gradient is 5% with maximum gradients of 9%, however the first part of the climb is steeper and flattens out after 4km.
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Affoux, situated at an altitude of 800 meters, offers exceptional panoramic views. Key natural features include Mont Crépier, the highest point at 965 meters, and the recently rehabilitated Tour Matagrin, which culminates at 1004 meters. Both offer magnificent 360-degree panoramas, including clear sightings of the Mont Blanc massif on a good day. The area is also characterized by diverse forests of fir, chestnut, and oak trees, and the 'route du genêt' which is vibrant with yellow flowers in spring.
Yes, Affoux has several historical and cultural sites. The 18th-century Ferme d'Affoux is a classified Historic Monument, showcasing rural architecture. Other notable sites include the Église Saint-Barthélemy, the Croix des Épars, and the Monument aux Morts.
Affoux is a destination for hikers, serving as the endpoint for the Grande Randonnée 76 (GR 76) trail. The area provides diverse landscapes for walking through forests of fir, chestnut, and oak. For specific starting points, Croix de Paisselay is known as a starting point for many hikes in the surrounding area.
Yes, the region around Affoux is popular for cycling. You can find various routes for road cycling and touring. For example, the Col de la Croix de Mazieux offers a 6 km climb with an average gradient of 5%. The Col des Cassettes (622 m) provides a quiet climb through rural landscapes. You can explore more options on the Road Cycling Routes around Affoux and Cycling around Affoux guide pages.
The Croix de Paisselay is considered family-friendly and serves as a starting point for many hikes. The general area with its forests and panoramic views offers pleasant outdoor experiences suitable for families, especially for walks and enjoying nature.
The changing seasons bring different beauty to Affoux. Spring is particularly vibrant with the bright yellow flowers of the 'route du genêt'. Autumn offers rich reds and purples in the foliage. For clear views of Mont Blanc from high points like Mont Crépier and Tour Matagrin, clear weather days are essential, which can occur throughout the warmer months.
Yes, on a clear day, you can indeed see the Mont Blanc massif from Affoux. Mont Crépier (965 meters) and Tour Matagrin (1004 meters) are excellent spots for this, offering breathtaking views of the Alps in the distance.
Croix de Paisselay is a significant junction point for many mountain bike trails and serves as a starting point for numerous hikes. Visitors appreciate the beautiful views of the surrounding forests and the tranquility of the area. It also hosts the Valsonne drummer festival.
The mountain passes around Affoux offer varied experiences. The Col de la Croix de Mazieux features an average gradient of 5% with maximum gradients of 9%, offering magnificent views. The Col des Cassettes (622 m) is known for its quiet climbs and rural landscapes, connecting to other passes like Col de la Croix Paquet and Col du Pilon.
Yes, there are several running trails in the vicinity of Affoux. You can find various routes with different difficulty levels, such as the 'Mont Boussuivre loop from Villechenève' or the 'Affoux loop from Affoux'. More details on these and other options are available on the Running Trails around Affoux guide page.
Beyond Affoux, you can explore the picturesque village of Oingt, designated as one of France's 'Most Beautiful Villages,' located about 18 km away. The major city of Lyon, approximately 35 km to the east, offers a wealth of impressive buildings, museums, and its historic Old Town. The Couvent de la Tourette in Eveux, a significant architectural site by Le Corbusier, is about 17 km distant.


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