Best Times to Visit the West Lyon Region: A Seasonal Guide
- Audrey
- Apr 30
- 4 min read
Just 20 minutes west of Lyon, the rolling hills of the Lyonnais countryside reveal a completely different face depending on the time of year. Whether you're planning a hiking trip in spring, a cultural escape in summer, a slow travel retreat in autumn, or a cosy winter stay before Lyon's famous Festival of Lights — there's a perfect season for every kind of traveller.
Book your nature stay at La Bergerie B&B in Pollionnay and experience the West Lyon region at its best.
Spring (April–June): The Best Season for Nature Lovers
Spring is widely considered the ideal time to explore the West Lyon countryside. Temperatures climb from 12°C in April to a pleasant 22°C by June. The hills around Pollionnay burst into colour with wildflowers, and the forest trails — including the popular Col de la Luère route — offer open views all the way to the Alps on clear days.
Highlights:
Hiking trails open up from April onwards — suitable for all levels, including families
The Courzieu Wildlife Park (wolves and birds of prey) reopens 1 April
Guided discovery walks organised by the Monts du Lyonnais Tourist Office run April through November
The Pollionnay equestrian centre welcomes riders of all ages
Spring also tends to be less busy than summer — a real advantage if you prefer quiet trails and relaxed accommodation.
Summer (July–August): Festivals, Long Days and Terrace Evenings
Summer in the West Lyon hills is warm and sunny, with daytime temperatures between 25 and 30°C. Unlike central Lyon, the altitude and forest cover keep things cooler and more breathable. Evenings on the terrace are long and peaceful.
Not-to-miss events near La Bergerie:
Les Nuits de Fourvière (June–August, Lyon): one of France's most prestigious outdoor cultural festivals, held at the ancient Roman theatre of Fourvière — 20 minutes by car
Tout l'monde dehors (July–August, Lyon): free outdoor events across the Lyon metropolitan area
Local producers' markets: cherries, strawberries, AOC wines and farmhouse cheeses
Summer is peak season — book well in advance.
Autumn (September–October): Golden Light and Local Flavours
Autumn is arguably the most photogenic season in the West Lyon countryside. From mid-September to late October, the forests turn amber, russet and gold. Temperatures are mild (16–22°C in September, 10–15°C in October) and rainfall is low. The trails are quieter, the light is softer, and the whole region feels more intimate.
Seasonal highlights:
Inter'val d'Automne (early September to mid-October): a local festival of concerts and performing arts in the Vallons du Lyonnais — often free
Beaujolais and Lyonnais AOC wine harvest: some local estates open their doors for visits and tastings
Festival Lumière (October, Lyon): the world-renowned classic cinema festival at the Institut Lumière — a perfect evening out from La Bergerie
The Courzieu Wildlife Park remains open until 11 November
For couples seeking a romantic and unhurried stay, autumn is unbeatable.
Winter (December–March): Cosy Stays and the Festival of Lights
Winter in the Monts du Lyonnais is cool (1–7°C in January), occasionally snowy and deeply peaceful. It's the season for slow mornings, hearty breakfasts and long evenings by the fire.
The highlight of this season is without doubt Lyon's Fête des Lumières (Festival of Lights) in early December — four nights of extraordinary light installations across the entire city. Staying at La Bergerie puts you 20 minutes from the spectacle, in a quiet and comfortable base far from the overcrowded city-centre hotels.
In December, local artisan and produce markets animate villages throughout the Monts du Lyonnais — a wonderful way to discover the region's craftspeople and food producers.
Quick Reference: When to Visit
Travel style | Best time |
Hiking & nature | April–June or Sept–Oct |
Families with children | May–June or July–Aug |
Romantic couples | September–October or December |
Festivals & culture | July–Aug or December |
Rest & digital detox | November–March (outside school holidays) |
Cycling & VTT | May–October |
La Bergerie is open year-round, with five individually themed rooms — Le Jardin, L'Étang, La Colline, La Rivière and La Roulotte (with private hot tub) — plus a homemade breakfast using local produce every morning.
Book your nature stay and choose your season.
Key Takeaways
Spring (April–June) brings mild weather, wildflowers and open trails — perfect for hiking and families.
Summer (July–Aug) is ideal for festivals; La Bergerie offers a cool countryside base close to Lyon's cultural scene.
Autumn (Sept–Oct) is the most scenic season, with golden foliage and a relaxed, intimate atmosphere.
December is magical: Lyon's Festival of Lights is just 20 minutes away.
La Bergerie welcomes guests all year round, 20 minutes from Lyon.
FAQ
What is the best time of year to visit the West Lyon region? Spring (April–June) and early autumn (September–October) offer the most pleasant weather, quieter trails and beautiful scenery. For festivals and long summer evenings, July–August is hard to beat.
Is it hot in summer near Lyon? Daytime temperatures reach 27–30°C in July and August. However, the hills and forests of the Monts du Lyonnais are noticeably cooler than central Lyon, making outdoor activities comfortable in the morning and evening.
Is the West Lyon region worth visiting in winter? Yes — especially in December, when Lyon's Festival of Lights draws visitors from around the world. La Bergerie makes an excellent, tranquil base. Trails can be muddy or frosty, so waterproof footwear is recommended.
Is La Bergerie open all year? Yes, La Bergerie is open 12 months a year. We recommend booking early for July–August, school holiday periods and the Festival of Lights in December.
Are there family-friendly activities nearby, whatever the season? From April to November, the Courzieu Wildlife Park (wolves and birds of prey) and the Pollionnay equestrian centre are excellent family options. Guided hiking trails in the Monts du Lyonnais are accessible year-round.
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