The Monts du Lyonnais, a haven of peace on the outskirts of Lyon

Looking to escape without traveling to the other side of the world? Just 30 km from Lyon, the Monts du Lyonnais are the haven of peace you've been waiting for. A region where unspoiled nature, breathtaking panoramas, and a rich and unexpected historical heritage come together to offer unforgettable experiences.

Breathtaking panoramas

The Monts du Lyonnais ? They're like a living postcard of the Rhône ! Here, every hill and valley offers breathtaking panoramas . Imagine: you're on the heights of Sainte-Catherine, Yzeron, or at the Signal de Saint-André , and there, on a clear day, you can see the Alps. Yes, you read that right, the Alps ! Enough to dazzle the eyes, and the lenses of any photographer…

Hikers, get your boots ready! The Monts du Lyonnais offer a variety of trails: from gentle strolls to recharge your batteries to more challenging routes to test your calves. The GR7 , the Chemin de Montaigne , the Chemin de Compostelle , and the Roman Aqueduct Trail of the Gier invite you on an unforgettable journey through diverse landscapes steeped in history.

  • View of Lyon from Yzeron. Zoom in on Fourvière hill and the Part-Dieu tower with, in the foreground, the first hills of the Monts du Lyonnais. Sunrise with the mist rising.Benoit Martin
  • A dirt hiking trail through undergrowth with pine and deciduous trees.CD69 – Fabrice Schiff
  • CD69 – Fabrice Schiff
  • CD69 – Fabrice Schiff
  • Part of the 72 arches still standing of the Roman aqueduct of Gier at Chaponost at Plat de l'Air in the Monts du Lyonnais.CD69 – Julien BOURREAU
  • 15th-century collegiate church in St Symphorien sur Coise, a listed village Julien Bourreau
  • Alley in Riverie, listed OTIMDL
  • Beautiful stone building where the Riverie town hall is located on the right and a view of the Monts du Lyonnais opposite.riverie

A heritage worthy of a historical novel

Passionate about history? The Monts du Lyonnais are full of picturesque villages, medieval castles and archaeological sites.

Don't miss the Couvent de la Tourette , a UNESCO World Heritage Site , and immerse yourself in the region's history with the remains of the Roman Aqueduct of Gier at the Plat de l'Air site, a unique site in France classified as a Historical Monument, or follow in the footsteps of the weavers and glassmakers who made the region famous.

Explore listed villages such as Riverie , designated since 2017 as a "Small Town of Character" , or Saint-Symphorien-sur-Coise , recognized as one of the " Most Beautiful Detours in France ".

A delight for the taste buds

When it comes to gastronomy, the Monts du Lyonnais are as generous as a plate of quenelles!

Meet the passionate producers of the Monts du Lyonnais and discover the culinary treasures of this authentic region. In lively markets, collective outlets, or welcoming restaurants , let yourself be tempted by fresh, local products, showcased by the collective brand "Monts du Lyonnais, Terre de Saveurs" (Monts du Lyonnais, Land of Flavors).

Delicious cheeses, artisanal charcuterie, golden honey, crisp fruits and vegetables… and of course, the famous Bessenay cherry , a true jewel of the region. Renowned for its juicy flesh and sweet taste, this iconic cherry is a symbol of local agricultural excellence.

  • CD69 – Mathilde COLLIER
  • Crates of cherries from Bessenay in the Monts du Lyonnais.CD69-Julien Bourreau
  • A display of about twenty pumpkins at a market in the Monts du LyonnaisCD69 – Julien BOURREAU
  • CD69 – Julien Bourreau

The Monts du Lyonnais, escape within easy reach

So, ready to escape close to Lyon? The Monts du Lyonnais await you for a charming getaway, between breathtaking panoramas, preserved nature and rich heritage.

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