Forests cover 65 percent of the 3,123 hectares of Poule-Les-Écharmeaux. To the north, Roche d’Ajoux rises above the village to 973 metres. Three different highlights can help you plan a stay: summit views and hiking trails, the Plan d’eau with its wetland, and cultural sights in two locations: the Église de Lafont in Poule-les-Écharmeaux and Jean Molette’s Napoleon statue at Col des Écharmeaux, at 712 metres. This makes it possible to combine nature experiences with specific cultural sights. This makes it possible to combine nature experiences with specific cultural sights.

Forest, Summit and Far-Reaching Views

From Roche d’Ajoux, panoramic views stretch across the entire Beaujolais and Brionnais regions to the Alps and the Monts du Forez. A virtual orientation table at Roche d’Ajoux presents a 340-degree panorama and identifies twelve notable viewpoints. It complements the expansive view with information about individual points of interest.

Choose Hikes by Duration and Theme

The marked “36” circular trail starts at Col des Écharmeaux, is 10.3 kilometres long and passes over the summit of Roche d’Ajoux. Check the local signs before setting off. BV Aventure aux Echarmeaux offers two circular hikes: one lasting 1 hour 30 minutes and a longer one lasting 2 hours 30 minutes. The one-hour difference can help you fit the hike into the rest of your day. Check the current tour formats before planning. Hikers on the GR7 and the Way of St James can use a rest shelter at the pass; check the facility’s condition before your visit.

Those who would like to discover the landscape with commentary can consider the guided “Balades des Roches Mystérieuses” tour. It leads through the beech forest of Roche d’Ajoux to remarkable boulders and rocky formations associated with the Beaujolais Geopark. Another guided tour, “Il était un temps au Col des Écharmeaux,” focuses on architecture, works by a local artist and the history of the pass. Check reservation details in advance.

Plan d’eau and Wetland

The Plan d’eau de Poule-les-Écharmeaux offers opportunities for walks and fishing, as well as picnic tables. A marked circular trail lets visitors explore the wetland. The meadows by the Plan d’eau are open to the public. If you plan to fish, bear in mind that seasonal conditions can vary. There are several ways to enjoy the area by the water: take a walk, spend time at a picnic table or fish under the applicable seasonal conditions.

Church and History at the Pass

The Église de Lafont in Poule-les-Écharmeaux was built in 1860 and is dedicated to Saint Isidore, the patron saint of farmers. The church is currently closed; check current access arrangements before planning a visit. At Col des Écharmeaux, a Napoleon statue by local sculptor Jean Molette stands at an elevation of 712 metres. The pass is a junction between Beaujolais, Lyonnais and Charolais. Together, the church and statue offer two distinct historical points of reference for local and regional history: the dedication of a church and a monument at an important pass.

Discover more destinations: Saint-Didier-Sur-Beaujeu, Neuville-Sur-Saône, Joux, Sérézin-Du-Rhône, Tassin-La-Demi-Lune, Couzon-au-Mont-d'Or, Champagne-au-Mont-d'Or, Villié-Morgon.

For the regional travel overview: Rhône.