6 outings not to be missed this summer in the Beaujolais Vert

This summer, the Beaujolais Vert region invites you to experience nature, whether by the water, on the trails, or exploring its rich heritage. To inspire you, we've selected six outings, each with a different theme: cooling off in natural spaces, hiking, visiting museums, exploring mountain biking trails, discovering cultural experiences , and enjoying summer activities at Lac des Sapins. It's the perfect destination to share moments with family or friends and make the most of the summer season.

1. Explore the shaded paths

The Beaujolais Vert region is a true playground for hiking enthusiasts. Between Douglas fir forests, wild valleys, remarkable panoramas and authentic villages, the trails offer getaways suitable for all levels.

In Claveisolles , the De l'Aze à l'Ergues circuit takes you between streams, pastures and forests, while the Tourvéon and the Roche d'Ajoux will appeal to walkers looking for elevation gain and beautiful viewpoints.

In Saint-Igny-de-Vers , the Les Charmes circuit invites you to immerse yourself in the heart of the undergrowth and landscapes of the Haut-Beaujolais.

For the more athletic, the loop of La chapelle de la Salette , in Joux , reveals exceptional panoramas of the Tarare mountains and preserved nature.

Finally, the " Au pays des douglas" circuit in Saint-Laurent-de-Chamousset is ideal for a family outing to discover the tallest Douglas firs in Europe.

5 hikes to discover

2Traveling back in time in museums

This summer, immerse yourself in the history and heritage of Beaujolais Vert through museums that tell the story of the industrial, railway adventure and the great inventions that have marked the territory.

In Thizy-les-Bourgs , the Écomusée du Haut-Beaujolais lets you relive the epic story of the textile industry through its workshops, impressive machines and cultural programming.

In Lamure-sur-Azergues , the Railway Loop Museum reveals, through a spectacular model, the ingenuity of the engineering structures that made the construction of this railway line possible. It offers a view of the site, its five viaducts, and part of the village of Lamure-sur-Azergues.

Finally, in Amplepuis , the Barthélemy Thimonnier Museum retraces the history of two revolutionary inventions: the sewing machine and the bicycle. With remarkable collections, exhibitions, workshops, and guided tours (by reservation), it's a fascinating visit for young and old alike.

3 museums to visit

3. Refresh yourself by the water

Julie Lfr

Rhône Tourism Julie lfr

When temperatures rise, the Beaujolais Vert region invites you to enjoy the pleasures of the water. Between lakes, natural swimming areas, water sports, swimming pools and other bodies of water, everyone can find their own space to relax, cool off, have fun or enjoy a moment in the fresh air.

At Lac des Sapins , in Cublize, enjoy a well-equipped beach, ideal for a family day out.

A short walk away, the Lac des Sapins biological swimming area , the largest in Europe, offers a unique experience in naturally filtered water, with spaces suitable for both young and old.

To vary the fun, the water sports and outdoor centre offers paddleboarding, kayaking, catamaran sailing, mountain biking and many other activities to enjoy with family or friends.

In Tarare, Aquaval combines pools, fitness area and wellness area for a sporting or relaxing break.

Finally, the Joux lake is a popular spot for fishing, walks and picnics, in a preserved natural setting.

5 places to enjoy the pleasures of water

4. Embark on an adventure on the mountain biking trails of Beaujolais Vert

The Beaujolais Vert region is an ideal playground for mountain biking enthusiasts. Between forests, ridges, valleys and panoramic views, the marked trails cater to all levels, from family outings to the most challenging routes.

Around Lac des Sapins , Circuit 1 is perfect for a family outing. Easy and accessible, it alternates between forest paths and countryside landscapes with a lovely viewpoint at Pommerel.

For a more dynamic outing, Circuit 2 – Des Mollières au Burdet combines passages through the forest, views of the lake and a descent into the Reins valley before reaching the ridge lines.

Experienced mountain bikers will appreciate the Mont du Crépier Circuit , with its long climbs and forest tracks, or the Circuit around the Crêts , which alternates between fun descents, technical sections and varied trails.

Finally, the most athletic can take on the challenge of the Tour du Pays du Beaujolais Vert : a large loop of more than 100 km in the heart of the hilly landscapes, between forests, single tracks and technical sections, with a well-deserved arrival at Lac des Sapins.

(Download the Beaujolais Vert Pleine Nature app)

5 mountain biking trails to discover

5. Immerse yourself in the world of artists

When summer days invite us to take the time to explore, Beaujolais Vert also reveals a cultural offering.

In Tarare, Thizy-les-Bourgs, and Lamure-sur-Azergues, the Micro-Folie opens the doors to artistic creation with its digital museum. This summer, discover the richness and diversity of works by women artists through an immersive experience.

An ideal cultural break to add variety to your summer outings in the Beaujolais Vert region.

3 places to discover these female artists

6. Enjoy a festive atmosphere at Lac des Sapins

Photo illustration

When summer evenings arrive, Lac des Sapins becomes a must-visit destination for enjoying open-air concerts and sharing convivial moments with family and friends. Between shows, musical discoveries, and activities for all ages, let yourself be carried away by a festive program in an exceptional natural setting.

In Cublize , the Mardis du Lac (Lake Tuesdays) invite you to discover new talents each summer through several evenings dedicated to music and live performance. With events like Festi'môme , Festi'gone , and Festi'zik , there's something for everyone: theater, circus, dance, hip-hop, pop-rock concerts, and shows for young audiences fill the summer evenings.

Fun'Yaourt ice cream parlor also offers a concert by the lake , accompanied by ice cream, sweets and drinks for a gourmet break in a festive atmosphere.

3 festivals to experience