A refreshing break away from the Lyon concrete
When temperatures soar in Lyon, every shady spot becomes almost as precious as a fan that's sold out. With pools being taken over and apartments transformed into pizza ovens, many Lyon residents are now looking for a natural escape to survive the heatwave. Good news: there's a little paradise just a few kilometers away from the capital of the Gauls.
Head to the Azergues valley in Beaujolais. Here, there’s no scorching concrete or survival-mode air-conditioned trams. Instead? A river, trees, villages made of golden stones, and nearly 50 kilometers of hiking trails winding alongside the water. Yes, it’s the kind of place where the temperature seems to have signed a secret agreement with nature.
FFRandonnée Rhône - © Dominique de Verneuil
Trails by the water between postcard villages and landscapes
Following the Azergues is like stepping into one of the most beautiful playgrounds around Lyon. Thanks to the efforts of FFRandonnée, several routes let you explore the area at your own pace. For instance, one trail connects Chamelet to Ternand over an 11.6-kilometer path, while another connects Le Breuil to Lozanne over about ten kilometers.
But beyond the hiking itself, it’s the scenery that truly captivates. The Beaujolais region showcases its finest features: medieval villages, vineyards as far as the eye can see, perched castles, and hills that remind you of the Italian Tuscany. Ternand, Chessy, and Châ...irc;tillon provides perfect spots to slow down and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Beaujolais in Nature XXL
This giant hike highlights just how much Beaujolais is so much more than just a land of great wines. The Azergues valley runs through a region recognized as a UNESCO Global Geopark, proving that this area has an exceptional natural heritage. And while Lyon gently melts under the heat, these shaded paths become like a real-life air conditioner. With the sound of the river, the trails lined with lush vegetation, and the air feeling just a bit fresher, it’s hard to believe you’re only a few kilometers away from the city.