Hiking Near Lyon | Ruins + Flower Viewing Route

This might be the closest scenic hiking trail to Lyon 🌿 We started our hike from the Gier Aqueduct (the stone bridge landmark). Here are two ways to get there from Lyon: Take metro Line B to Gare d'Oullins, then transfer to bus 12 (same station) to "Chaponost les Vergers." A 400m walk gets you to the stone bridge. Take C10 to Pont d'Oullins, transfer to bus 12 to "Chaponost les Vergers," then walk a few minutes. Alternative: After getting off Line B or C10, skip the bus and hike to the aqueduct—it takes ~1 hour, mostly uphill along winding roads. Note: Bus 12 runs hourly, so plan your timing! The stone bridge has a visitor center (with small guidebooks), but it’s only open Saturday mornings on weekends. This 2,000-year-old ruin is partially under restoration—an open-air site you can explore freely 🏛️ Hike north along the road in front of the aqueduct (see Fig. 2) to enjoy blooming flowers, grassy fields, and horse pastures. The path is mostly flat with gentle downhill stretches—lovely views! After descending, you’ll reach the town of Francheville, where the Chateau de Francheville ruins await. This takes ~1 hour. Continue through the town, downhill, and you’ll reach Vieux Lyon in another hour. If you’re tired, take bus C20E from the town directly to the old city 🚌 Overall, this is a relaxed, easy trail—best in spring and summer when flowers are in full bloom 🌸 The downhill path from the stone bridge is narrow with frequent traffic. Stay close to the edge and don’t cross carelessly! All photos taken with Fujifilm X100VI 📸Vieux Lyon is a must-visit, and while it’s touristy, many locals are regulars here. These old restaurants have stood the test of time, blending tradition with modern service and quality. This is one spot you can’t miss in Lyon. #LyonHiking #LyonLife #LyonWeekend #FrenchHiking #SpringFlowers #HikingTrails #RuinsAndNature