Rhins (rivière) - Affluent de la Loire walks

Hike near a beautiful lake that is very popular in summer (with a beach, water sports, horse riding centre, tree climbing, etc.) and in the Mollières woods.

Starting from Ranchal on the border of the Loire department, this is a beautiful route in the upper Azergues valley.

A circular loop around Lac des Sapins, taking about an hour and presenting no difficulties, allowing you to admire the lake from a perfectly maintained path.

Northern part of the Cublize Azure Route; take thePR®®7ato complete the circular route. A peaceful walk through the woods, far from the hustle and bustle of Lac des Sapins. View of Magny Castle, which belonged to Vauban's brother, and, on a clear day, the Alps, including Mont Blanc.

Starting from Saint-Vincent-de-Reins station, follow in the footsteps of Marie-Louise, the locomotive that used to run between Amplepuis and Saint-Vincent via Cublize and Magny. Then climb up to the heights of Magny to return to Saint-Vincent via La Madone.

On this route, you’ll enjoy splendid scenery: the Forêt du Roannais plain and its hills, the Monts de Tarare and Monts du Lyonnais along theGR®7, and Rochefort Castle to your right, plus a section along parts of the Route Napoléon. A challenging route due to its length and elevation gain. See the ‘Practical Information’ section.

An easy walk, mostly on gentle paths. A few climbs, but nothing too strenuous. The route passes through woodland but also offers sweeping views of the region’s countryside.