The 3 Most Amazing Peaks around Thurins

The area around Thurins, nestled in the Monts du Lyonnais, is characterized by rolling hills and elevated points rather than towering peaks. You'll find a landscape perfect for hiking and mountain biking, offering panoramic views, especially from spots like Le Signal de Saint André, one of the highest points in the region.

Yes, the Monts du Lyonnais region offers many options suitable for families. While specific highlights like Malval Pass (732 m) are noted as family-friendly, the general area around Thurins Dam and Lac du Ronzey provides pleasant, shaded environments with diverse trail options for various fitness levels, including easier strolls.

Visitors highly recommend several viewpoints for their expansive scenery. Le Signal de Saint André offers a belvedere with views overlooking the valley. The Panorama of the Monts du Lyonnais from Grand Croix also provides breathtaking vistas. On clear days, you can even catch glimpses of Lyon and the distant Alps from various elevated spots like Malval Pass.

The Monts du Lyonnais region is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy extensive hiking, mountain biking, and cycling. For example, you can explore numerous running trails, tackle challenging MTB routes like the 'Thurins Dam – Yzeron loop', or go cycling on routes such as the 'Le Signal de Saint André – Saint-Martin-en-Haut loop'.

Yes, Le Signal de Saint André is not only a high point but also a historical site commemorating the work of geographer César-François Cassini de Thury. Additionally, 'The Camel' is a unique natural feature, a piece of the Roman aqueduct of Gier where nature has shaped the stones to resemble a camel.

The Monts du Lyonnais is enjoyable throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, with forests changing colors. Summer is also popular, especially in shaded areas or around lakes like Lac du Ronzey. Winter hiking is possible, but some trails might be more challenging depending on conditions.

Absolutely. While there are easy options, the Monts du Lyonnais also offers challenging routes. For instance, the 'Tour des Monts du Lyonnais' (TML) is a significant trail with considerable elevation gain for both hiking and mountain biking. Many of the MTB trails and cycling routes listed are rated as 'difficult', providing a good test for experienced adventurers.

You'll encounter diverse natural beauty, including dense forests, rolling hills, and picturesque valleys. The region is known for its deciduous forests and wild granite ridges. Lakes like Lac du Ronzey and landmarks like Thurins Dam also add to the scenic variety, providing tranquil waters amidst lush greenery.

Yes, the Monts du Lyonnais features several notable cols. Malval Pass (732 m) is a popular point on many routes, offering views of Lyon and the Alps. Col de la Luère is another example of an elevated pass that is part of popular hiking and cycling routes, providing scenic descents and rewarding views.

Visitors particularly appreciate the accessibility to nature and the variety of outdoor activities available. The stunning panoramic views, especially on clear days when Lyon and the Alps are visible, are a major draw. The extensive network of well-maintained trails for hiking, mountain biking, and cycling also makes it a prime location for experiencing the French countryside.