Cycling Routes in the West Lyon Region: Loops for Every Level
- Audrey
- Mar 22
- 6 min read
The West Lyon Region is one of the best-kept cycling secrets in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes area. Just 20 to 30 minutes from central Lyon, the landscape opens up into rolling wooded hills, AOC vineyards, quiet ridge roads and authentic villages — all reachable by bike from your accommodation. Whether you're a family looking for a safe, traffic-free trail, a casual rider wanting to tackle a first mountain pass, or a seasoned cyclist chasing serious elevation, the cycling routes of the West Lyon Region have something for you. This guide highlights three loops starting from Pollionnay, the village where La Bergerie guesthouse is located.
Why Cycle in the West Lyon Region?
The Monts du Lyonnais massif has a well-established cycling identity. It is home to several benchmark climbs: the Col de la Luère (714 m), Col de Malval (732 m) and the Croix du Ban pass are among the most iconic ascents for local riders. Beyond the athletic appeal, the area stands out for its quiet back roads, cool forest shade in summer and sweeping views of the Alps, Beaujolais hills and the Lyon plain.
Pollionnay, where La Bergerie is located, sits perfectly at the gateway to the Monts du Lyonnais — close enough to the city to be accessible, yet far enough to ride in near-total peace within minutes. The local community (CCVL) maintains over 27 marked mountain bike circuits and several road cycling loops, ranging from easy one-hour rides to full-day athletic adventures.
Three Cycling Loops Starting from Pollionnay
🟢 Family Loop: the Grézieu-la-Varenne Greenway (~10–15 km, easy)
Estimated time: 1–2 hours | Elevation: minimal | Surface: car-free greenway
For families with young children, beginners or anyone wanting a gentle ride through the countryside, the Grézieu-la-Varenne Greenway is the perfect outing. Built along the former railway line that once connected Lyon Saint-Just to Vaugneray, this 4.5 km traffic-free path can be used by cyclists, rollerbladers and prams alike.
From La Bergerie in Pollionnay, reach the greenway in under 10 minutes along quiet lanes. Once on the trail, enjoy a peaceful, tree-lined route with no traffic. For a longer ride, extend to Vaugneray and return by a different country road — signage is clear throughout.
🟡 Intermediate Loop: Pollionnay – Vaugneray – Yzeron – Col de Malval (~40–45 km, moderate)
Estimated time: 2.5–3.5 hours | Elevation: approx. 690 m | Surface: quiet roads
This is the most balanced loop for riders comfortable with moderate climbing. Starting from Pollionnay, drop down to Vaugneray (420 m) before climbing gradually toward the village of Yzeron (around 710 m). The ascent is long but steady — typically 3 to 4% average gradient — ideal for finding your rhythm. Yzeron itself is a lovely place to stop, with a panoramic viewpoint and several options for refreshment.
From Yzeron, continue to Col de Malval (732 m), the highest point on this loop. The section between the two summits is gentle — a wooded plateau with alternating views over the Beaujolais hills to the right and the Lyon plain to the left. The descent back to Pollionnay is a rewarding finish.
🔴 Sporty Loop: The Crêts Circuit – Col de la Luère & Col de Malval (~60–80 km, advanced)
Estimated time: 4–5 hours | Elevation: 900–1,000 m | Surface: road, mountain passes
This is the grand classic of West Lyon cycling. The loop links three iconic passes: the Croix du Ban, Col de la Luère and Col de Malval. It demands preparation but rewards generously.
From Pollionnay, the Croix du Ban climb hits 17% gradient over roughly 300 m — a short but sharp shock to the legs. Recover, then begin the Col de la Luère ascent from Chevinay: 5 km at 6% average, winding through the forest, technically engaging. At the top (714 m), bear right toward Col de Malval across a gentle plateau. The view from the summit takes in Beaujolais Vert, the city of Lyon and — on clear days — the Alpine chain. The return via Yzeron and the Croix Perrière brings you back to Pollionnay on rolling terrain.
Tip: head out early in the morning in summer — roads are deserted and birdsong fills the forest.
Practical Tips for Your Cycling Trip
Best time to ride: Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) offer the most pleasant conditions: mild temperatures, beautiful foliage and quiet roads. In summer, start early to enjoy the cool forest before midday.
Bike hire in Pollionnay: Velonaute (formerly Loisirs VTT), located in Pollionnay, is a specialist bike shop with over 35 years of experience. Road bikes, mountain bikes, gravel bikes and e-bikes are available, along with a full workshop. Book ahead in peak season.
GPS tracks: The Monts du Lyonnais Tourism Office (montsdulyonnaistourisme.fr) provides downloadable route sheets and GPX files. The Val-VTT website (val-vtt.fr) lists 27 marked mountain bike loops in the area, suitable for all levels.
Local Food & Wine to Discover Along the Way
The West Lyon Region's food culture is as rewarding as its scenery. The AOC Coteaux du Lyonnais produces some of the region's most distinctive wines — look out for vineyard signs along the ridge roads and stop for a tasting. Saucisson lyonnais (cured sausage), Rosette and Jésus de Lyon are classic trail-side snacks. And don't leave without trying the Pâté Lyonnais — a golden pastry turnover filled with custard cream or seasonal fruit, a local speciality best shared.
Back at La Bergerie, Audrey prepares a table d'hôtes dinner using local produce. After a long day in the saddle, it's the perfect way to refuel — book your evening meal alongside your room.
La Bergerie: Your Cycling Base in the West Lyon Region
Set in Pollionnay, 20 minutes from central Lyon, La Bergerie is a friendly, family-run guesthouse with four en-suite rooms and a quirky shepherd's wagon (roulotte) with a private hot tub. Its location is a genuine advantage for cyclists: Col de la Luère and Col de Malval are reachable directly from the front door — no car transfers needed. Our rooms are comfortable and well-equipped, and the generous breakfast sets you up for a full day on the road.
La Bergerie also welcomes families (rooms sleep up to five) and couples. If you're planning a nature-focused stay, check out our things to do nearby page to combine cycling with hiking, horse riding or a visit to Courzieu wildlife park.
📌 Key Takeaways
The West Lyon Region offers cycling routes for every level — from a flat, traffic-free greenway to serious mountain pass climbs.
Pollionnay is the perfect starting point: quiet roads, hilly scenery and direct access to Col de la Luère and Col de Malval from La Bergerie.
Three benchmark loops: greenway (~10 km, easy) / Yzeron–Malval (~40 km, intermediate) / Crêts Circuit (~75 km, advanced).
A specialist bike shop (Velonaute) is located in Pollionnay for hire and repairs.
La Bergerie's table d'hôtes uses local produce — the ideal post-ride recovery dinner.
❓ FAQ
Can families with young children cycle in the West Lyon Region? Yes. The Grézieu-la-Varenne Greenway (4.5 km, no traffic) is ideal for small children. More confident young riders can explore 15–25 km loops on quiet lanes around Pollionnay and Vaugneray. E-bikes make family outings even more accessible.
Do I need to bring my own bike to stay at La Bergerie? No. Velonaute in Pollionnay offers road bike, mountain bike and e-bike hire. Contact the shop ahead of time to confirm availability, especially in summer. Secure bike storage can be arranged at La Bergerie on request.
How difficult are the mountain passes in the area? Col de la Luère (714 m) and Col de Malval (732 m) are Category 3 climbs — manageable for trained intermediate cyclists. The Croix du Ban features a 17% section, which is challenging and best suited to experienced riders. On an e-bike, all three climbs become accessible to a much wider range of cyclists.
Where can I find GPS routes for cycling near Pollionnay? The Monts du Lyonnais Tourism Office (montsdulyonnaistourisme.fr) provides detailed route cards and GPX downloads. The Val-VTT website (val-vtt.fr) lists 27 marked circuits in the CCVL area. Apps such as Komoot and Geovélo also offer curated routes starting from Pollionnay.
What is the best season for cycling in the Monts du Lyonnais? Spring and autumn are ideal — mild temperatures, manageable hills and beautiful scenery. Summer riding is enjoyable if you start early and seek out forest shade. Some passes may be icy in winter; always check conditions before heading out.
Ready to saddle up and recharge in the hills of the West Lyon Region? La Bergerie is waiting for you in Pollionnay, at the gateway to the Monts du Lyonnais. Book your nature stay — rooms and the shepherd's wagon available year-round.
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