The best walks and hikes around Saint-Symphorien
4.6
(26)
144
hikers
30
hikes
Hiking around Saint-Symphorien reveals a landscape characterized by extensive forests, tranquil river valleys, and numerous water bodies. The region features rolling hills and plateaus, offering varied terrain for outdoor exploration. These natural environments provide a diverse setting for hiking, from gentle paths to more challenging ascents. The area's ecosystems include wetlands and woodlands, contributing to its biodiversity.
Best hiking trails around Saint-Symphorien
- The most popular hiking route is Large Pond – Small pond loop from Forêt domaniale de Petite Charnie…
Last updated: July 4, 2026
24.2km
06:31
320m
320m
A difficult 15.0-mile hike through Grande Charnie Forest, featuring the Devils' Table and Signal des Viviers, with 1044 feet of ascent.
4.8
(6)
19
hikers
12.7km
03:21
120m
120m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
5.0
(1)
10
hikers
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
4
hikers
13.2km
03:39
230m
230m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
The town belongs to the group "Most Beautiful Places in France" and "Small Towns with Character".
1
0
The race from the city to see the castle of Sainte-Suzanne is well worth the effort and your just reward is this magnificent view.
2
0
The castle of Sainte-Suzanne dates from the 11th century and holds the record of being the only stronghold that William the Conqueror could not defeat.
2
0
The hike from town to see the Chateau de Sainte-Suzanne is well worth the effort and your just reward is that magnificent view.
2
0
The Signal des Viviers is the highest peak in the Grande-Charnie forest with 290m. A nice goal for all the peak baggers that you are. No photography is available, I would like to see what the view looks like from this summit.
2
0
The Grande-Charnie forest is a state forest of deciduous and coniferous trees. It is classified as a Natural Area of Ecological, Floristic and Faunistic Interest, so it was with surprise that a quarry project was proposed within the forest in 2009. Fortunately, mobilization of the local community made it possible to fight with success for his abandonment.
2
0
This dolmen is a curiosity. Balanced on a much larger boulder, the top slab rests on a smaller boulder - but was it man-made or nature-placed there?
2
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Saint-Symphorien?
There are over 30 hiking routes around Saint-Symphorien, offering a diverse range of experiences. These include 15 easy trails, 13 moderate options, and 2 more challenging routes, ensuring something for every skill level.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see on a hike in Saint-Symphorien?
Hiking in Saint-Symphorien offers a rich tapestry of landscapes. You'll discover extensive forests, tranquil river valleys, and rolling hills. Many routes traverse lush woodlands, some featuring magnificent boxwood paths and varied undergrowth, while others offer panoramic views of the Haut-Allier Valley or lead across limestone plateaus.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes in Saint-Symphorien?
Yes, Saint-Symphorien has several easy trails perfect for families. A great option is the Parking and picnic tables – Small pond loop from Forêt domaniale de Petite Charnie, which is about 6 km long and takes around 1 hour 35 minutes to complete. This route offers a gentle exploration of the forest environment.
Are there any challenging hikes for experienced trekkers?
Absolutely. For those seeking a more strenuous adventure, Saint-Symphorien offers challenging routes. Consider the Devils' Table and Signal des Viviers Loop, a demanding 24 km trail with significant elevation changes, or the Historical center – Sainte-Suzanne Castle loop from Torcé-Viviers-en-Charnie, another difficult route spanning over 24 km.
Can I find circular hiking routes in the Saint-Symphorien area?
Yes, many of the trails in Saint-Symphorien are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the popular Large Pond – Small pond loop from Forêt domaniale de Petite Charnie is a moderate 12.9 km circular route that explores dense woodlands and water features.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Saint-Symphorien?
The hiking trails in Saint-Symphorien are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an impressive average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from over 26 reviews. Hikers often praise the quiet woodlands, diverse scenery, and well-maintained paths that make for an enjoyable outdoor experience.
Are there any routes that offer panoramic views?
Yes, the region is known for its scenic vistas. While specific routes from our data aren't explicitly named for views, the general area, particularly near Saint-Symphorien-d'Ozon, offers ascents like the route to Mont Verdun, which provides spectacular views of Lyon and the surrounding landscape. Many trails in the Haut-Allier region also boast extensive valley and mountain panoramas.
Are there any historical or cultural points of interest along the trails?
Beyond natural beauty, some trails in the broader Saint-Symphorien area incorporate historical elements. You might encounter a 15th-century priory, a cemetery with dry stone enclosures, or hamlets with restored houses and carved calvaries, adding a cultural dimension to your hike.
What is a good moderate hike to explore the local forests?
A great moderate option for exploring the local forests is the Devils' Table loop from Torcé-Viviers-en-Charnie. This 13.2 km route takes you through varied woodland terrain and is typically completed in under four hours.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see on the trails?
The trails around Saint-Symphorien showcase diverse natural features. You'll encounter lush forests, often with granite blocks and rivers, as well as dry riverbeds with interesting stonework. The presence of rivers like the Allier and Ruisseau des Sietges adds to the scenic beauty, and you might also explore areas with wetlands and varied undergrowth.
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
