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Bikepacking around Lyon: The 5 Best Routes to Discover by Bike

Bikepacking autour de Lyon : les 5 meilleurs itinéraires à découvrir à vélo

Want to cycle far from Lyon's traffic jams, but without going to the other side of the world ? Bikepacking is the art of traveling light, sleeping under the stars (or in a cozy gîte, we don't judge) and discovering breathtaking landscapes... or at least wind-breaking ones.


Around Lyon, the possibilities are as varied as the cheeses in Auvergne: from the banks of the Saône to the vineyards of the Beaujolais, passing through the Monts d'Or, there's something for every calf.


If one of these itineraries appeals to you, we advise you, after reading, to deepen your research, which will be essential for planning your itinerary and preparing your equipment.


So, put on your cycling shorts, check your brakes (yes, it's important) and follow the guide for our 5 favorite bikepacking itineraries around Lyon!

The banks of the Saône: the zen route for beginners

⏱️ 1 to 3 days

↔️ Up to 700 km - (Almost) pancake-flat elevation

Perfect for a first try or a relaxing weekend, this route follows the Saône river. The scenery? Calm waters, passing barges, picturesque villages, and inns where you can savor an eel matelote.

Why we love it:

  • Peaceful and accessible route, with little elevation gain, ideal for cyclists who prefer to chat.
  • A wide choice for gourmet breaks.

Muule's little tip:

Equip yourself with a handlebar bag to keep the essentials within reach (snack, water bottle), and a nice pair of sunglasses to enjoy the scenery without straining your eyes. No need to set off loaded like a mule for your first trip.

Cycle path along the Saône.

ViaRhôna: The green highway to infinity (and beyond)

⏱️ 1 day to several weeks

↔️ Up to 800 km (for glory) - Relatively low elevation gain

For big dreamers with a long-term vision, the ViaRhôna is the ultimate escape. This major European cycling route starts from Lake Geneva and stretches towards the Camargue for hundreds of kilometers of very suitable cycling facilities. With Lyon located in the middle, you are free to choose your own itinerary.

Why it's a gem:

  • Very varied landscapes, mostly far from cities.
  • Quite easy and accessible for total autonomy, even for beginners!

Muule's little tip:

If you're going for total autonomy, you'll need good bike bags, but especially quality equipment for the bikepacking bivouac part. Don't forget your stove for your little meals!

ViaRhôna cycling path.

The Beaujolais Getaway: cycling between vineyards and golden stone villages

⏱️ 1 to 2 days

↔️ 80 - 150 km - Moderate elevation gain

🚴 Accessible level

The Beaujolais region isn't just about wine (although that's an excellent reason to visit). This itinerary takes you through the vineyards, from Villefranche-sur-Saône to Oingt, passing through the Beaujolais vineyards.

Highlights:

  • Endless vineyards and tastings.
  • Beautiful landscapes with golden stone villages.
  • Perfect mix of effort and pleasure.

Muule's Little Tip :

Opt for practical bikepacking storage such as saddlebags for your small belongings, and larger, sturdy panniers because you'll inevitably be leaving with bottles. Also, consider getting an insulated water bottle to keep your coffee warm.

Bike ride through the vineyards.

The Monts d'Or: The "Fake Flat" That Will Make You Doubt Your Career

⏱️ 1 day

↔️ 40 to 60 km - Elevation gain 800 to 1,200m

The Monts d'Or are what locals affectionately call "the little warm-up that kills". Located just north of Lyon, this mountain range offers an ideal playground for the bikepacker who wants to experience some elevation gain without having to cross three borders.

Why we go there:

  • Climbs that make your legs burn, but also beautiful descents.
  • Perfect spot to test your gravel bike.
  • Panoramic view of Lyon and our magnificent Fourvière.

Muule tip:

Bring a Top Tube bag to store your belongings and nutrition to regain your strength. Also remember to bring hydration equipment so you can stop less (or almost not at all).

View of Lyon from the Monts d'Or.

Pilat Park: A Wild Adventure

⏱️ 2 to 3 days

↔️ 70 to 90 km - Elevation gain 1500 to 1800m

🚴 Difficult level

If you want to feel like an explorer, head to the Pilat Regional Natural Park. From Lyon, towards Saint-Étienne, then total immersion in nature: lakes, forests, and landscapes that change at every turn. Prerequisites: a good physical level and appropriate equipment, because here, we are far from bike paths.

Why we love (and dread) it:

  • A breathtaking view with the Alps in the background (if the weather is with you).
  • Wild, mountainous atmosphere with a landscape that is worth the effort.

Muule's little tip:

Equip yourself with men's breathable technical clothing and women's to sweat without ending up soaked, but also a lightweight and waterproof men's jacket and women's in case of unpredictable weather and in cool areas.

View of the 3 peaks of the Pilat Regional Natural Park.

Is wild camping allowed in France?

So, yes, you can bivouac in France, but with pretty strict rules. Officially, bivouacking is tolerated from sunset to sunrise, provided you do not camp (yes, it's vague, but it means not exceeding the times and not for more than 1 day), do not make a fire (except in authorized places), and do not squat in national parks (beware, rangers have very good binoculars).

Where to sleep without getting kicked out?

  • In the mountains, above 2,000m.
  • In state forests (unless a sign says "No bivouacking", in which case, sorry but the law prevails).
  • On private land… with the owner's permission! (otherwise, it's squatting, and it's forbidden).

Our Muule tip:

If you want to avoid problems, opt for a campsite or a gîte – you'll get a shower, breakfast, and zero risk of waking up to a fine or a cow licking your tent. And finally, find out about the areas and sites where you would like to stop: the laws and restrictions are not the same everywhere, nor throughout the season.

So, when are we leaving?

Whether you're looking for a leisurely exploration or a sporting challenge, bikepacking around Lyon offers an incredible diversity of routes. With just a few pedal strokes, you can go from an ultra-accessible greenway to more challenging terrain, worthy of a true adventure.

The hardest part of all this? Choosing where to start. But one thing is for sure: with a bike, a few panniers, and a little motivation, you're already ready to go.

And if you're short on equipment, discover our range of bike gear and textiles for our Muule men's and women's collections.


So, when are you loading up your gear?


Article written by Martin from Muule on April 21, 2026.

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