The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Métropole de Lyon

Métropole de Lyon offers a wide variety of family-friendly hiking trails. You'll find over 350 easy routes and more than 300 moderate routes, ensuring there's something suitable for every family's preference and fitness level.

For families with toddlers or those seeking a very gentle stroll, consider routes like the Around the old Lyon trail. This easy route is just under 4 km and explores the historic urban landscape, offering a pleasant and accessible experience. The region also features numerous parks like Parc de la Tête d'Or and Parc Naturel de la Feyssine, which provide flat paths perfect for short, relaxed walks.

Yes, many family-friendly trails in Métropole de Lyon are circular, making them convenient for starting and ending at the same point. A great option is the Inner Monts d'Or Loop, which is just under 5 km and offers a moderate challenge with lovely views. The Monts d'Or region, in general, is known for its well-marked loop trails.

Families can explore a diverse range of natural attractions. In the Monts d'Or, you'll find panoramic viewpoints like Mount Cindre and Mont Thou, offering stunning vistas of Lyon. The Grand Parc Miribel Jonage features lakes such as Lac des Eaux Bleues, perfect for lakeside strolls. You can also visit the significant Confluence of the Saône and Rhône rivers, a unique natural monument.

Many trails in Métropole de Lyon are dog-friendly, especially those in natural areas and regional parks. It's always a good idea to keep your dog on a leash, especially in protected areas or near livestock. The Monts d'Or and Monts du Lyonnais offer extensive networks of paths where dogs are generally welcome, provided they are well-behaved.

Many family-friendly trails pass through scenic areas ideal for picnics. The Grand Parc Miribel Jonage, for instance, has numerous open spaces and lake shores perfect for a family meal outdoors. Trails in the Monts d'Or often feature charming villages like Saint-Cyr-au-Mont-d'Or, where you might find benches or small parks. Always remember to pack out everything you pack in to keep the trails clean.

Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) are generally the best times for family hiking in Métropole de Lyon. The weather is mild and pleasant, and the landscapes are particularly beautiful with spring blossoms or autumn colors. Summer can be warm, so early morning or late afternoon hikes are recommended, especially on shaded trails. Winter offers a different charm, with crisp air and fewer crowds, though some higher elevation trails might require more preparation.

Yes, many trails around Métropole de Lyon are well-connected. For example, the Monts d'Or area, including routes like the Mont Thou – Caborne loop from Saint-Cyr-au-Mont-d'Or, can often be reached by local buses from Lyon. Many trailheads also have designated parking areas, making it easy for families traveling by car. It's advisable to check specific route details for public transport options and parking availability.

The komoot community highly rates the family-friendly trails in Métropole de Lyon, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from urban green spaces to the rolling hills of the Monts d'Or, and appreciate the well-maintained paths suitable for various ages. Many highlight the beautiful views and the opportunity to discover charming villages along the way.

To avoid crowds, especially during peak season, consider exploring trails in the Monts du Lyonnais, which offer varied landscapes and a more tranquil atmosphere compared to some of the more popular Monts d'Or routes. The Parc Naturel de la Feyssine is another large, relatively unknown natural area within Lyon that provides a peaceful escape. Early mornings or weekdays are also excellent times to enjoy a quieter hike.

Absolutely! The Métropole de Lyon region is rich in history. The Around the old Lyon trail takes you through the historic urban landscape. In the Monts d'Or, you can discover traditional dry stone huts called 'cabornes' and picturesque villages. The Monts du Lyonnais also feature historical remnants like the Brévenne Aqueduct, adding an educational element to your family hike.