4.4
(554)
3,358
riders
62
rides
Gravel biking around Sathonay-Camp offers diverse landscapes on the outskirts of Lyon, characterized by a plateau bordered by the Saône and Rhône rivers. The terrain features a mix of unpaved roads, forest paths, and agricultural areas, providing varied riding conditions. Notable natural features include Mont Thou, offering panoramic views, and the Bois des Côtes with its scenic vistas. This region provides a network of trails suitable for exploring its natural and agricultural scenery.
Last updated: November 3, 2026
4.7
(22)
106
riders
43.7km
02:11
180m
180m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
4.4
(5)
31
riders
87.7km
05:15
390m
390m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.

4.3
(4)
24
riders
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
8
riders
73.1km
04:40
450m
450m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
12
riders
82.4km
05:54
1,240m
1,240m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
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magnificent park in all seasons, cross at a walking pace, priority to the many walkers.
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It crosses the supply canal of the Cusset dam power plant, at the upstream entrance of the Grand-Large reservoir. Built in 1895, it is a steel beam bridge nearly 84 meters long (83.72 m) consisting of three spans.
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A 140-meter-long "soft mobility" bridge that spans the Jonage canal and connects Vaulx-en-Velin to Décines-Charpieu, facilitating access to the Grand Parc de Miribel-Jonage. It was inaugurated in October 2013.
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Le Grand Parc Miribel Jonage is one of the largest peri-urban natural parks in Europe, extending over 2,200 hectares of preserved nature on the outskirts of Lyon. Located on an island formed by the Miribel and Jonage canals, this multifunctional site serves as a green lung for the Lyon agglomeration, a flood control zone for the Rhône, and a strategic drinking water reservoir. It is the essential meeting place for Lyon residents for water activities, cycling, and outdoor relaxation.
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The Lac du Grand Large (or Grand-Large reservoir) is an artificial lake of about 150 hectares located in the east of Lyon, straddling the communes of Décines-Charpieu and Meyzieu. Created at the end of the 19th century during the development of the Jonage canal, it historically serves as a reservoir for the Cusset hydroelectric power plant in Villeurbanne. Today, it is one of the most popular outdoor recreation areas in the Lyon metropolitan area.
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The Lac du Grand Large (or Grand-Large reservoir) is an artificial lake of about 150 hectares located in the east of Lyon, straddling the communes of Décines-Charpieu and Meyzieu. Created at the end of the 19th century during the development of the Jonage canal, it historically serves as a reservoir for the Cusset hydroelectric power plant in Villeurbanne. Today, it is one of the most popular outdoor leisure spaces in the Lyon metropolitan area.
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The Grand Large lake (or Grand-Large reservoir) is an artificial lake of about 150 hectares located in eastern Lyon, straddling the towns of Décines-Charpieu and Meyzieu. Created at the end of the 19th century during the development of the Jonage canal, it has historically served as a reservoir for the Cusset hydroelectric power plant in Villeurbanne. Today, it is one of the most popular outdoor recreation areas in the Lyon metropolitan area.
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Walk that crosses areas where fauna and flora are protected, respect these places: keep your dog on a leash, do not approach animals, do not shout...
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There are over 50 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails around Sathonay-Camp, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a good mix, with 5 easy routes, 19 moderate, and 27 more challenging options to explore.
The region offers diverse terrain, from unpaved agricultural roads and forest paths to dedicated green lanes. You can expect a mix of flat sections along riverbanks and more undulating terrain on the plateau, with some routes featuring significant elevation changes, like the challenging Château de Montaland washhouse – Aqueduc Romain du Gier loop which climbs over 1000 meters.
Many trails offer scenic views and access to natural attractions. You can ride towards Mont Thou for panoramic vistas of the Saône and Rhône valleys, or explore areas like the Bois des Côtes which provides exceptional views of the Monts d'Or and Beaujolais. The View of Île Barbe is another picturesque spot along the Saône.
Yes, Sathonay-Camp offers several easy routes perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed ride. The local 'Voie Verte' (Green Lane) connecting Sathonay-Camp to Lyon is ideal for a calm, verdant path. While not explicitly easy, the The open sea – Miribel ford loop is a moderate option with less elevation gain compared to others, making it a good step up.
Absolutely. Many of the gravel bike trails around Sathonay-Camp are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Madonna of Mas Rillier – Montée de la Paroche loop or the Lake at Parc de la Tête d'Or – Madonna of Mas Rillier loop. The Rhône Department also has established two specific loops of 9 km and 13 km that start directly from the town.
Many of the easier and moderate routes, especially those on dedicated green lanes or less technical forest paths, are suitable for families. The 'Voie Verte' is particularly family-friendly. Always check the route's difficulty and length on Komoot to ensure it matches your family's capabilities.
Sathonay-Camp benefits from excellent public transport links due to its proximity to Lyon. You can easily reach the area by public transport, making it convenient to access various trailheads without needing a car. Check local transport schedules for the best connections to Sathonay-Camp.
Given Sathonay-Camp's accessibility, there are generally parking options available within the town or at designated trailheads. For specific routes, it's advisable to check the Komoot tour details for recommended starting points and parking information.
Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for gravel biking in Sathonay-Camp, with mild temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can be enjoyable, but be mindful of potential heat. Winter rides are possible, but some forest paths might be muddy or slippery after rain or snow.
The no-traffic gravel bike trails around Sathonay-Camp are highly rated by the Komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 360 ratings. Riders often praise the quiet, varied landscapes, the mix of challenging climbs and scenic paths, and the opportunity to discover both natural beauty and local landmarks away from traffic.
Yes, experienced riders will find several challenging routes. For instance, the Estacade de Trévoux – Trévoux Footbridge loop is a difficult route spanning over 80 km with more than 1200 meters of elevation gain, offering a significant endurance test. These routes often venture into more rugged terrain and higher elevations.


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