The best walks and hikes around Métropole de Lyon

The Métropole de Lyon offers a diverse range of landscapes for hikers. You can explore the distinctive hills and forests of the Monts d'Or to the north, the rolling hills and woodlands of the Monts du Lyonnais to the west, and expansive natural spaces like the Grand Parc Miribel Jonage. The banks of the Rhône and Saône rivers also provide pleasant paths, often with views of the city and its historic areas.

Yes, Métropole de Lyon has many easy trails perfect for families and beginners. For instance, the Around the old Lyon route is an easy 4 km urban walk through historic areas. Another gentle option is the Barrage de Cusset – loop, which is about 5 km and relatively flat. The Grand Parc Miribel Jonage also features many accessible paths, such as the Around the lakes of the Blue Waters route, which is moderate but generally flat and scenic.

For stunning panoramic views, head to the Monts d'Or massif. Trails like the Heart of the Monts d'Or Trail offer vistas of Lyon and the countryside. Specific viewpoints like Mont Thou and Mount Cindre are popular for their magnificent outlooks. The Pilat Natural Regional Park, though a bit further, also provides breathtaking views of the Alps and Jura mountains from its higher trails.

Yes, many trails in the Métropole de Lyon are designed as circular routes. For example, in the Monts d'Or, you can find the Inner Monts d'Or Loop, which is a moderate 5 km hike. Another option is the Mont Thou – Caborne loop from Saint-Cyr-au-Mont-d'Or, offering a longer, moderate challenge with scenic views.

Hiking around Métropole de Lyon allows you to discover various natural and historical landmarks. You can see the Confluence of the Saône and Rhône rivers, explore the Grand Brotteau Peninsula at Lac des Eaux Bleues within Grand Parc Miribel Jonage, or visit the Remarkable Trees at Lacroix-Laval Park. In the Monts d'Or, you'll encounter historical dry stone constructions known as 'cabornes' and charming villages.

Many hiking spots around Lyon are easily accessible by public transport. The Grand Parc Miribel Jonage, for instance, is just 15 minutes from Lyon and can be reached by bus. The Monts d'Or villages, which serve as starting points for many trails, are also well-connected. For specific routes, it's best to check local transport schedules to plan your journey.

Yes, for those seeking a more challenging experience, the region offers difficult routes. The The stairs – La Porte du Pinay loop from Couzon-au-Mont-d'Or is a difficult 16.7 km hike with significant elevation gain. The Monts du Lyonnais also provide a network of trails with varied terrain, suitable for more experienced hikers looking for longer and more strenuous options.

The hiking trails in Métropole de Lyon are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.4 stars from over 2,200 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse terrain, from urban walks to forest paths, and the well-maintained routes. Many appreciate the accessibility of natural spaces close to the city and the beautiful panoramic views from areas like the Monts d'Or.

Absolutely. Many hiking routes in the region pass through or near picturesque villages, especially in the Monts d'Or and Monts du Lyonnais, allowing you to explore local architecture and heritage. The nearby Beaujolais region, renowned for its vineyards, offers trails that combine scenic walks with opportunities for wine tasting, providing a unique regional experience.

While popular spots like Grand Parc Miribel Jonage and parts of the Monts d'Or can see more visitors, exploring trails in the Monts du Lyonnais or some of the longer, more challenging routes can offer a quieter experience. Early mornings or weekdays are generally the best times to find less crowded paths in any area.

The Métropole de Lyon offers good hiking opportunities throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn are particularly pleasant, with mild temperatures and beautiful scenery—spring brings blooming flora, while autumn showcases vibrant fall colors. Summer can be warm, making early morning or late afternoon hikes preferable, especially along riverbanks or in shaded forests. Winter hiking is also possible, particularly on lower elevation trails, though some higher routes might require appropriate gear.