The Voie Bleu : From Lyon to Chalon-Sur-Saône by bike

Patrimoine

Vignoble

From the buzz of Lyon to the relaxed pace of Chalon-sur-Saône, the Voie Bleue invites you on a gentle ride along the Saône River, where nature, heritage, and the French art of living meet. The journey begins in vibrant Lyon, but the river soon leads you to quieter scenes: wine-growing villages, riverside bistros, Romanesque chapels, and bustling markets line the way. From the Beaujolais vineyards to the medieval lanes of Tournus, every stage has its own charm. The route is mostly flat and safe, making it ideal for anyone discovering the joys of cycling in France. With a hybrid or electric bike from Paulette, you can travel light and let the river carry you all the way to Chalon-sur-Saône.

Day 1

54 km

Lyon → Montmerle-Sur-Saône

Leave from Paulette’s Lyon agency (71 cours Lafayette) and cross the Rhône to reach the Saône riverbanks. The scenery quickly becomes pastoral: l‘Île Barbe, the Monts d’Or in the distance, riverside bistros, and peaceful villages set the pace.

In Rochetaillée-sur-Saône, take a break at the Automobile Museum before following the river to the lock keeper’s house at Parcieux.

Make a stop in Trévoux to explore its medieval lanes, and in Villefranche-sur-Saône, capital of the Beaujolais, perfect for a stroll or supplies.

Optionally, visit the Fléchères Castle in Fareins before arriving in Montmerle-sur-Saône for a peaceful night by the water.

Day 2

31 km

Montmerle-Sur-Saône → Mâcon

From Montmerle, climb the Tour des Minimes for a sweeping view before getting back on the trail.

Option: cross to Belleville-en-Beaujolais and follow the Beaujolais Greenway to Beaujeu, through vineyards and wine estates.

Or continue along the Saône through Thoissey and pause at the Cormoranche leisure park.

Arriving in Mâcon, wander the old town, browse its shops, and follow the “Tracé de la Plume” walking tour to soak in the local spirit.

Day 3

66 km

Mâcon → Chalon-Sur-Saône

Leaving Mâcon, follow the Voie Bleue alongside the Saône, past Romanesque villages, Mâconnais vineyards, and peaceful lakes. Take a break at Lake Fleurville or in Pont-de-Vaux before reaching Tournus, known for its abbey and gastronomy.

After Tournus, cycle through a protected natural area, surrounded by greenery and vineyards. Stop in Gigny-sur-Saône to relax by the water.

Finally, arrive in Chalon-sur-Saône, a vibrant and cultural city, where you’ll return your bike to our local partner Paulette (La Villa Boucicaut, 33 bis Avenue Boucicaut).