Two walking routes begin in the village square in Mizérieux: one is 5 km long, the other 10 km. The La source circular route is 5 km long and rated easy. It runs through Mizérieux and passes the Saint-Fortunat spring. When choosing a hike, distance is not the only factor: La source also offers a circular route, an easy difficulty rating and a trail that passes the spring.

Hiking and the Loire landscape

The Les grands chambons circular route is 10 km long and starts in Mizérieux. It offers views of the banks of the Loire. Along the way, you may spot herons, cormorants, various waterbirds, rabbits and deer. So, alongside its length, this route is defined by its riverside scenery and the possibility of spotting wildlife. Fishing is also possible along the banks of the Loire in Mizérieux, adding a distinct activity to the river theme.

The Saint Fortunat spring and cultural heritage

The Saint Fortunat spring in Mizérieux is designated as a historic site, a monument of historical heritage and a fountain. The wayside shrine at the spring contains a statue of the saint and various paintings. In the past, the spring gained a certain renown through the organisation of major pilgrimages. The La source trail passes the Saint-Fortunat spring. This gives the route a direct connection to a place with a religious history; the pilgrimages are part of the spring’s past. Its designation as a historic site and a monument of historical heritage places it within the area of cultural heritage, while its designation as a fountain highlights another aspect.

The church and early written records

The church in Mizérieux was renovated in 2003, and several remains were discovered during the work. A very old fresco in the church’s Saint-Étienne chapel was revealed after the old plaster fell away. The church thus links a renovation project dated to a specific year with discoveries and a mural in a specifically named chapel.

The earliest actual written records of Mizérieux date from 994 and refer to the place as IN MISERIACO. The years 994 and 2003 relate to different aspects: the early written history of the place and the later renovation of the church. More than a thousand years separate the two dates.

The two hikes offer a direct comparison: La source is 5 km long, rated easy and passes the spring; Les grands chambons is 10 km long and offers views of the Loire as well as opportunities to spot wildlife. Alongside the distance, the routes offer different highlights to choose from: links to the spring and cultural heritage, or nature watching by the river.

Discover more destinations: Veauche, Montbrison, Saint-Haon-Le-Châtel, Saint-Paul-en-Jarez, Riorges, Saint-Romain-D'urfé, Usson-En-Forez, Chambles

For the broader travel overview: Loire.