In Saint-Germain-Nuelles, you’ll encounter a wide range of subjects: the Croix du Mont, the architectural history of the Church of Saint-Rambert in Nuelles, and the natural and industrial history of the Carrières de Glay. There is also a link between the town centres, named trails and signposted cycling routes. When planning your visit, you can choose between architectural heritage, landscapes and different types of routes.
Cross, church and limestone
The Croix du Mont is the only monument in Saint-Germain-Nuelles classified as a “Monument historique” (historic monument). It bears a sculpted depiction of Bishop Germain dating from 1532. The Church of Saint-Rambert in Nuelles offers another historical point of reference: its existence is documented as early as 962, and it is a Romanesque building. The upper part of its portal is attributed to the Flamboyant Gothic style of the 15th century. These dates refer to different things: 962 to the documented existence of the church, and the 15th century to the upper part of the portal.
Nature and the history of quarrying are among the defining features of the Carrières de Glay. Because of their diverse wildlife and plant life, including rare species such as bats and orchids, the quarries are classified as an Espace Naturel Sensible (sensitive natural area). A visit also introduces the history and techniques of extracting the yellow limestone typical of the southern Beaujolais. The quarries are open to walkers year-round; a marked trail with information panels leads around the site.
Connections and trails
A 830-metre-long path for pedestrians and cyclists connects the two town centres. It opened in spring 2020 and is accessible to young children as well. Check the current condition of the path before using it.
The “Balade de Griz'loup à Saint-Germain” is a family-friendly walking route for children, with questions available to download. The “Balade de Griz'loup à Nuelles,” by contrast, focuses on the hamlet of Nuelles: it is a self-guided walk to explore the area. When choosing between the two, you can consider their respective formats and destinations.
The “Entre vignes, lavoirs et croix de chemin” route is marked with PDIPR signs. Its sequence of waypoints passes through Le Bourg, La Charrière, Le Bouchat, Le Bourg again, Les Garines, the Lavoir du Suc, Les Grandes Terres and Les Fouillouses, then returns via La Charrière to the church car park. Another named route, the “Circuit Les Carrières de Glay,” starts in the centre of Saint-Germain-Nuelles and leads to the Carrières de Glay.
Choose cycling routes by length and profile
The “Circuit VTT 54 – Les Carrières de Glay” is a 20.5-kilometre loop with 457 metres of elevation gain. VTT-FFC markings and the red number 54 identify the route. It can be ridden freely and free of charge year-round; check the conditions before setting off.
The “Entre Bully et Saint Germain Nuelles” cycling route also passes through Saint-Germain-Nuelles. As the route may change, check its current course before setting off. This distinguishes it from the marked mountain bike loop, which has specific distance and elevation figures.
In Saint-Germain-Nuelles, “V.T.T. Vélo Terroir et Territoire” offers discovery, introductory and advanced sessions in various cycling and mountain biking activities, as well as courses for individuals and groups of all levels. If you are planning a course, confirm current availability before booking.
Discover more destinations: Le Perréon, Dareizé, Saint-Laurent-D'oingt, Tassin-La-Demi-Lune, Bully, Lucenay, Craponne, Morancé.
For the broader travel guide: Rhône.
