Parc des Hauteurs and Jardin du Rosaire

The Parc des Hauteurs and the Jardin du Rosaire form a network of hillside paths and terraced gardens on the Fourvière slope in Lyon's 5th arrondissement, in France's Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. Footpaths zigzag from the basilica area at the top of the hill down toward Vieux Lyon at the bottom, passing the Jardin du Rosaire, a terraced garden whose plantings and stairs descend in tiers. The route passes through shaded woodland stretches, open lawns and viewpoints, and each bend reveals different angles over the roofs of the old town, the Saône and the Presqu'île. Entry is free and the paths are open as public spaces. Many visitors take the F1 funicular up to Fourvière and then walk down, which makes the route mostly downhill, although steps are steep in several places and grippy shoes are advised. The Montée Saint-Barthélemy gives a starting point near the lower end. A walk takes 45 to 90 minutes depending on pace and stops, and photography is rewarding, especially of the basilica above and the city skyline from the terraces. The best light is in the morning or late afternoon, and the steps can be slippery after rain, so dry weather is preferable. Crowds are modest compared with the basilica itself, and the quieter paths suit those wanting a peaceful stroll away from the centre. The walk ends near Vieux Lyon, where Metro D at Vieux Lyon-Cathédrale Saint-Jean provides easy onward travel, and cafés and restaurants of the old town are close at hand. Visitors should carry water in summer, as shade is uneven and there are few services along the paths.