Monts du Lyonnais: 5 Breathtaking Panoramic Views to Discover on Foot
- Audrey
- Mar 31
- 5 min read
Planning a stay in the Lyon countryside? Book your nature stay
Just 20 to 30 minutes from central Lyon, the Monts du Lyonnais offers landscapes that stay with you long after you've left. Rolling green hills, forested ridges, and on a clear day, sweeping views stretching all the way to the Alps — this low-mountain massif is a genuine paradise for nature lovers and slow travellers. Whether you're an experienced hiker or simply looking for a peaceful walk in the fresh air, the trails here reward you generously. Here are five unmissable viewpoints to discover on foot, at your own pace.
A Hidden Natural Gem Just Outside Lyon
Landscapes that change with the seasons
The Monts du Lyonnais is a mosaic of mixed forests, lush meadows, orchards and sun-kissed vineyards. Its highest point, the Crêt Malherbe, reaches 946 m — modest in altitude, but generous in views. Each season brings its own palette: spring blossoms, golden autumn light, and crisp winter air that reveals the full chain of the Alps on the horizon.
How far can you see?
On a clear day, from the ridges of the Monts du Lyonnais you can spot the French Alps (including Mont Blanc), the Pilat massif, the Rhône valley, Lyon's Fourvière Basilica, and even the Auvergne volcanoes. Orientation tables at several viewpoints help you identify the peaks and understand the landscape in front of you.
5 Must-See Panoramic Viewpoints
1. The Pollionnay Ridge Trail — 180° View at Saint-Bonnet-le-Froid
Distance: 13.5 km · Elevation gain: moderate · Duration: ~4h · Level: intermediate
Starting right from Pollionnay — the village where La Bergerie is located — this loop climbs toward Vaugneray before reaching the high point of Saint-Bonnet-le-Froid, where a broad 180° view opens up across the valleys below. The trail alternates between wooded sections, open meadows and exposed ridges. The terrain is hilly; solid hiking footwear is essential. A perfect half-day hike starting from your accommodation.
Tip: Head out early — morning light catches the mist in the valleys, creating stunning scenery.
2. Piragoy Viewpoint — Views Over Lyon and the Alps
Distance: 8.7 km · Elevation gain: +245 m · Duration: ~3h10 · Level: easy to moderate
At 532 m above sea level, the Piragoy belvedere is one of the most accessible panoramic spots in the massif. The loop follows shaded woodland paths before opening up at the summit, where you can see Lyon, the Alps and the Pilat mountains. Suitable for beginners and families. An orientation table helps you identify the various landmarks visible from the top.
Tip: Autumn and winter offer the clearest skies and the best long-distance visibility.
3. Around Montagny — Orientation Tables and Wide Open Views
Distance: 10 km · Duration: ~3h · Level: easy
A gentle 10 km loop through a varied landscape: Lyonnais Coteaux vineyards, orchards, moorland and a picturesque medieval village. Several orientation panels along the route let you read the surrounding landscape with ease. On a clear day, the trail offers views all the way to Lyon and the Fourvière Basilica. A perfect blend of nature and heritage, accessible to all.
4. Rochefort & Saint-Martin-en-Haut — Medieval Village and Open-Air Art Trail
Distance: ~9 km · Duration: 2h30-3h · Level: intermediate
Starting in Saint-Martin-en-Haut, this loop leads to the ruins of Rochefort Castle, where an orientation table frames a striking view of the Alps and Lyon. The return follows the "Chemin du Vachon", an open-air art trail dotted with ten colourful mandalas set in the landscape. A walk that combines natural beauty, local heritage and a touch of creative surprise — great for families.
Tip: This circuit is accessible by TCL bus from Lyon (line 202, from Gorge de Loup station). No car needed.
5. The Larajasse Chapel Circuit — For Experienced Hikers
Distance: 22 km · Duration: full day · Level: experienced
This full-day circuit across the vast commune of Larajasse delivers the widest panoramas in the massif. The open ridges reveal the Crêt Malherbe summit (946 m), the Pilat range, and on clear days, the full arc of the Alps on the horizon. The trail weaves through hamlets, Romanesque chapels and traditional farms — a deep immersion into the rural Lyonnais countryside.
Tip: Check the weather the evening before and come well prepared — the ridges can be windy. Trekking poles are helpful on the descents.
Practical Tips for Your Hike
Best time to go: Autumn and winter offer the clearest views. Spring brings blooming orchards. Summer calls for an early start to beat the midday heat.
What to bring: Proper ankle-support hiking boots, a windproof layer for exposed ridges, enough water and snacks, and a navigation app (IGN Rando, Komoot or Visorando). Paper trail maps are available from the Monts du Lyonnais Tourist Office.
Local Gastronomy: The Best Reward After a Long Walk
The Monts du Lyonnais is also a food lover's territory. After a morning on the trails, explore local producers: farmhouse cheeses, orchard fruits, artisan honey, Coteaux du Lyonnais AOC wines, and the region's famous dry saucisson — Saint-Symphorien-sur-Coise is known as the "dry sausage capital of France." Saturday morning farmers' markets are a great way to pick up local produce.
La Bergerie, Pollionnay: Your Perfect Base for the Monts du Lyonnais
La Bergerie is a charming bed & breakfast set in the heart of Pollionnay, just 20 minutes from Lyon. It's the ideal starting point for exploring the panoramic trails of the Monts du Lyonnais — some walks begin right at the doorstep. Choose from five unique rooms and suites, including the romantic roulotte (shepherd's wagon) with private terrace and hot tub. Each morning begins with a homemade breakfast; in the evenings, the table d'hôtes offers a convivial dinner made with locally sourced ingredients.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
The Monts du Lyonnais offers panoramic views stretching to the Alps, Mont Blanc and Lyon — just 20-30 min from the city.
Five trails for all levels: from the easy Piragoy viewpoint (8.7 km) to the full-day Larajasse circuit (22 km).
The Pollionnay ridge trail starts right from La Bergerie — no car required.
Orientation tables along the trails help you identify the peaks and read the landscape.
La Bergerie in Pollionnay is the ideal base: cosy rooms, homemade breakfast, and a table d'hôtes with local produce.
FAQ
Q1 — When is the best time to see the Alps from the Monts du Lyonnais? The clearest views occur in winter and autumn, when the air is less humid. After a rainy spell followed by a high-pressure system, you may even spot Mont Blanc. Sunrise and sunset also offer exceptional light on the ridges.
Q2 — Are the trails suitable for families with young children? Yes — the Piragoy viewpoint loop (8.7 km, +245 m), the Rochefort loop (~9 km) and the Montagny circuit (10 km) are suitable for children aged 8 and above. Shorter trails of under 5 km are also available around Yzeron and Brullioles.
Q3 — Do I need a car to reach the trailheads from La Bergerie? Several trails start directly from Pollionnay. For other viewpoints, a car is recommended — although some sites are accessible by TCL bus from Lyon (lines 202 and 247). Ask the team at La Bergerie for personalised advice.
Q4 — Can I hike and return to La Bergerie for dinner? Absolutely. The table d'hôtes operates on reservation — just let the team know when you book. After a full day on the trails, a home-cooked dinner awaits you.
Q5 — Where can I find trail maps and guides? The Monts du Lyonnais Tourist Office provides downloadable maps and detailed trail cards. Printed guides are also available at tourist information offices across the area. La Bergerie's hosts are happy to share their personal trail recommendations.
Ready to wake up in the heart of nature and hike to the finest viewpoints in the Lyon countryside? Book your nature stay at La Bergerie — the perfect gateway to the Monts du Lyonnais.
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