Francheville (Rhône) walks

Woods and a river in the city! It's hard to find a wooded area that's both close to Lyon and large enough for several hours of walking.The paved sections are very limited, and you walk mainly in a steep-sided valley, along the water's edge, namely the Yzeron stream, and under the trees the whole time. This makes it ideal during hot weather.The route is mostly flat, apart from the loop on Findez hill.For those who are allergic to asphalt and don't want to go too far, this valley nestled between Craponne and Francheville is a good option.

A pleasant walk through the streets, along the Étang du Boulard and the countryside near Chaponost. Starting near the aqueduct, you can discover these superb Gallo-Roman remains.

Starting from the Fort de Lyon Saint-Just, 500 metres from the Saint Just funicular railway, this walk is half in the countryside and half in the city. It passes through several parks and the pretty little Razes valley, followed by a nature trail along the Thiện Minh Pagoda. There is a beautiful view of Lyon and the Alps from the Esplanade Lichfield in Sainte-Foy-lès-Lyon.

For several years now, Lyon's Confluence district, in the wake of the construction of the museum, has been undergoing a major transformation. Here, it is invited to discover its new face, where modernity meets history, in the exceptional setting of the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers.

A varied hike (wide path, trail, partly in the woods, partly in the middle of fields), fairly short but with some elevation gain.

In addition to being a nice hike, this circuit is interesting because throughout the trail signs provide educational information on the fauna and flora, tree species etc. It also helps hikers discover the local agricultural heritage that is everywhere so close to Lyon.

Stroll through the Tony Garnier open-air museum. The beautiful buildings of the Cité des États-Unis serve as a backdrop for the architect's plans for his ideal city of Lyon. Other street arts, colorful and symbolist, extrapolate this concept to other countries.

The charm of the Coteaux du Lyonnais from the Ratier stream to the highest point of Sainte-Consorce: Pipora. A moderate elevation gain allows you to enjoy streams, hillsides, meadows and some beautiful views of Lyon, the Alps and Mont Blanc. Circuit proposed by the municipality of Sainte-Consorce.

Short hike in the Coteaux du Lyonnais to discover hamlets, streams and panoramic views of Saint-Consorce, just a stone's throw from Lyon.

A lovely ten-kilometre loop starting from Grézieu-la-Varenne. Mainly in the forest, it takes you up the legendary Col de la Luère.

A short hike to soak up the gentle tranquillity of the Monts du Lyonnais, just 15 km as the crow flies from Place Bellecour (Lyon). This circuit is also very close to the neighbouring towns of Tassin, Craponne, Saint-Genis-les-Ollières and Charbonnières-les-Bains. You will discover the calm of the forest with its remarkable trees, the tranquillity of small streams and breathtaking views of Lyon. As a bonus, depending on the conditions, you can enjoy views of the Alps and Mont Blanc.

An easy loop starting from Saint-Cyr-au-Mont-d'Or to reach the heights of the Monts d'Or towards Mont Thou. The return route passes via Mont Cindre. There are some lovely views and several drystone shelters to discover along the way.

A pleasant half-day walk along paths and through woods with beautiful views of the region.

An easy hike to discover the drystone shelters of Mont-d'Or. The cabornes are huts built of dry stone, which were used as shelters and for storing tools by farmers. They were also sometimes used as dwellings.

Parking: 4 spaces for cars a few metres from the start of the path.It's rare to find a quiet walk that barely touches tarmac in the Monts d'Or. This one does just that. You get to spend two hours in the forest near Lyon without any physical challenge. Ideal for families.

Warm up in the Bois des Plasses in the municipalities of Dommartin and Dardilly.

Gentle climb up the Limonest corniche, which offers beautiful views of Fourvière. Chemin de Narcel in the woods, towards Mont Verdun. Then another beautiful view on the descent towards Limonest. Pass near the Château de la Barollière.

A scenic route through the forest with no difficulty, 95% of which is on paths.