The Tacot Trail and the Chemin de Deux-Grosnes offer two different scales of hiking in Monsols: a former railway line with a gentle slope along the mountainside and a 74-kilometre multi-day route. There is also the summit view from Mont Saint Rigaud, cycling options and historic buildings. When planning your trip, the first question is whether you want to focus on outdoor activities, scenery or architectural history.
Hiking between a former railway line and a multi-day route
The former Tacot railway line in Monsols is now a trail used for hiking, with a gentle slope along the mountainside. The 74 km Chemin de Deux-Grosnes offers a different option: a multi-day route connecting the seven historic communities of Monsols, Saint-Christophe, Trades, Saint-Mamert, Saint-Jacques-des-Arrêts, Ouroux and Avenas. The main consideration when choosing is how much you want to take on: a gently rising trail or a 74-kilometre multi-day hike.
You can start the Viaduct Circuit at one of two places: the Maison du Col de Crie at Col de Crie in Monsols, or the fountain square in the village of Monsols. This gives you a choice of a starting point at Col de Crie or in the village.
Views and nature at Mont Saint Rigaud
Mont Saint Rigaud is the highest point in the Rhône département. At the summit, an observation tower and a panoramic information board offer 360-degree views. A large part of the Mont Saint Rigaud massif is designated as a ZNIEFF because of its significant natural wealth. ZNIEFF stands for “Zone Naturelle d’Intérêt Écologique, Faunistique et Floristique” (Natural Area of Ecological, Faunal and Floral Interest). An educational trail offers families a fun and informative walk there. The views, information board and trail each offer a different focus: a panorama or a walk with interpretation of the natural environment.
Viaduct, church and architectural history
The Viaduc du Châtelard was built in 1909. At 27 metres high and 145 metres long, its dimensions are easy to compare: it is considerably longer than it is high.
The Église de Monsols was built between 1890 and 1892 to replace an older church. Details in the bell tower include a bell weighing 1,400 kg and a smaller bell weighing 450 kg. Inside, features include a carved oak pulpit and oak panelling with choir stalls dating from the 1940s. The church invites you to consider both its construction period and individual features of the bell tower and interior.
Cycling options and seasonal planning
The M12 mountain bike route is 22.5 km long. It passes through the western Grosne Valley, whose source is in Monsols, and the eastern valley, which runs through Ouroux. It is a good idea to check the route information before setting out. The Maison du Col de Crie offers starting points for hiking and trail activities, as well as mountain biking, road cycling and cycling tours.
The Maison du Col de Crie at Col de Crie in Monsols welcomes visitors from April to early November. As this seasonal information may change, it is best to check the dates before your visit.
Local produce and trip planning
At l’Epice’Crie, you can discover local produce such as cheese, cured meats, honey and jams. They also offer locally produced drinks, meal platters and gourmet baskets. If you are looking for a hotel in Monsols, it helps to decide first what you want to focus on during your stay: hiking, cycling, nature or architectural history each gives your plans a different emphasis.
Discover more destinations: Saint-Nizier-D'azergues, Avenas, Fontaines-sur-Saône, Pommiers, Chaponnay, Taluyers, Sainte-Colombe, Émeringes.
For the broader travel overview: Rhône.
