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A walk in the Val de Saône

Between natural sites, heritage and gastronomy…

Val de Saône

Last updated date : 23/01/2023

From the trails of the Monts d’Or to the banks of the Saône, there are many reasons to come and visit this charming area, including walks and bike rides, great food and cultural attractions! 

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Take a walk in a pristine natural setting

La Voie Bleue à Rochetaillée © Guillaume Robert-Famy

On a sunny Sunday afternoon or a day off work, get some fresh air on the doorstep of Lyon... Many paths criss-cross the Monts d’Or, the beautifully redeveloped banks of the Saône, and the wooded landscapes to the east of the valley.

Looking for inspiration? The Greater Lyon nature trails guide (in French) lists the various routes in the local area, such as the geological walk of the Monts d’Or, the Sentier des Cabornes, Sentier de l’Eau and Sentier de la Marinade. 

Discover original heritage

La Nymphée de Neuville

Be sure to visit some of the architectural gems, such as the Nymphée de Neuville, the many golden stone villages and the musée de l’Automobile Henri Malartre in Rochetaillée-sur-Saône which presents a superb collection of vintage cars and bicycles in an exceptional château or the musée Ampère in Poleymieux-au-Mont-d’Or.

Taste Lyon’s gastronomy in an exceptional setting

Beyond the unavoidable Auberge de Collonges de Paul Bocuse, the proposals are numerous and varied: guinguettes in the Saône Valley where you can taste frogs' legs, the astonishing Crusoe where you can get there by boat, a refreshing, bucolic and delicious stopover at l’Ermitage Cuisine à manger with a superb panorama, or a small village bistro where you can sip a craft beer, you should find what you are looking for!

Enjoy the ride!