Best mountain passes around L'Arbresle are found in the surrounding hilly and mountainous regions, as the commune itself is at a lower elevation. L'Arbresle is situated at the confluence of the Monts du Lyonnais and the Beaujolais Pierres Dorées areas. These nearby regions offer elevated terrain suitable for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling. The landscape features rural and agricultural areas, providing varied routes for exploration.
Last updated: June 26, 2026
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The descent is really cool on the Chevinay side
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The Col de la Croix du Ban, in the Monts du Lyonnais, can be approached either from Saint-Pierre-la-Palud or from Poulionnay. In the first case, it is a six-kilometre climb, in the second it is only three. In both cases, the average gradient is 6%.
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The Col de Malval, in the Monts du Lyonnais, rises to an altitude of 732 metres. Even though the climb is mainly through forest, a few clearings allow you to enjoy the views of Lyon and the Alps.
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The Croix du Ban pass is a delightful challenge for bikepacking enthusiasts, offering a rewarding climb through the lush, wooded landscapes of the Monts du Lyonnais. The ascent is steady to the summit, from where you will have a breathtaking view of the surrounding valleys and hills.
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The Col de la Luère is an essential passage for cyclists. Situated in the mountains, it offers spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding area. The slopes can be steep, but the effort is worth it for cycling enthusiasts.
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Nice climb and luckily for me the last 3 km were shaded! scorching hot.
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Cross marking the Col de Mazieux.
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The Monts du Lyonnais region, adjacent to L'Arbresle, features several interesting passes. The Col de la Luère, at 715 meters, separates the Brévenne and Yzeron valleys. Another significant pass is the Malval Pass (732 m), which offers clearings with views towards Lyon and the Alps. You can also explore the Col de la Croix de Mazieux, known for its beautiful views.
Yes, the Old Col de la Croix du Ban is a historical site that once marked the feudal boundary between the Archdiocese of Lyon, the Abbey of Savigny, and the County of Forez. It features an old cross and a unique wooded atmosphere, offering a glimpse into the region's past.
Many passes in the region offer scenic viewpoints. For instance, the Malval Pass (732 m) provides clearings with views of Lyon and the distant Alps. The Col de la Croix de Mazieux is also noted for its magnificent views at a crossroads of many roads. Even the Old Col de la Croix du Ban, while not offering expansive vistas, provides a picturesque view of an old cross within a tranquil wooded setting.
Yes, several mountain passes in the area are considered family-friendly. Both the Col de la Luère and the Malval Pass (732 m) are categorized as suitable for families, offering varying levels of challenge that can accommodate different activity levels.
The mountain passes around L'Arbresle generally offer intermediate difficulty levels, making them accessible for a range of outdoor enthusiasts. Some, like the Malval Pass (732 m), also have challenging sections, while others provide more moderate ascents. The region's terrain is characterized by undulating hills rather than high-altitude alpine climbs.
Absolutely. The Monts du Lyonnais and Beaujolais Pierres Dorées areas are popular for cycling and mountain biking. You can find numerous routes that incorporate these passes. For mountain biking, explore options in the MTB Trails around L'Arbresle guide, or for gravel biking, check out the Gravel biking around L'Arbresle guide.
The surrounding mountainous areas are ideal for outdoor activities throughout the year. However, spring and autumn often offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with vibrant foliage or blooming wildflowers. Summer is also suitable, though it can be warmer. Winter can provide a different experience, but some routes might be affected by weather conditions.
While specific dog-friendly designations for individual passes are not detailed, the rural and natural landscapes of the Monts du Lyonnais and Beaujolais Pierres Dorées regions generally welcome dogs on trails, provided they are kept under control. It's always advisable to check local regulations or signage for specific paths.
You will primarily encounter rural and agricultural landscapes, including forests, farmlands, and charming villages. The region is known for its distinctive golden limestone architecture, particularly in the Pierres Dorées area. Many passes, like the Col de la Luère and Malval Pass (732 m), are surrounded by forests, offering a refreshing natural environment.
Visitors appreciate the varied approach paths and the opportunity to change the gradient of their ascent, as noted for the Col de la Luère. The scenic views, especially those of Lyon and the Alps from clearings at passes like Malval Pass (732 m), are also highly valued. The historical significance of sites like the Old Col de la Croix du Ban adds another layer of interest for explorers.
Yes, the areas around these mountain passes are rich with hiking opportunities. The Monts du Lyonnais and Beaujolais regions offer numerous trails that incorporate these elevated routes. For a variety of running trails, you can consult the Running Trails around L'Arbresle guide, which includes routes of varying distances and difficulties.


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