Fourviere Hill Climb via Montee Saint-Barthelemy

The Fourviere hill climb is the classic urban walk of Lyon, in the Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes region of France. It starts at Place Saint-Jean in Vieux Lyon, beside the Cathedrale Saint-Jean, which is served by Metro line D at the Vieux Lyon - Cathedrale Saint-Jean station. No parking or permit is needed; the start is in the pedestrian old town, and cars are best left elsewhere. The route climbs about 1.5 km and roughly 115 m, from the Saone riverbank to the esplanade of the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourviere at about 290 m. This places it in the easy class by distance and elevation, although the gradient is steady and sustained. The surface is a mix of cobbles, worn stone steps and paved lanes, such as the Montee Saint-Barthelemy and the Montee du Gourguillon alternatives. The steps are uneven and can be slippery after rain. There is no exposure in the mountain sense, but the stairs are narrow in places, and shade comes from the walls and trees on the lower half, while the upper section is more open. Landmarks include the stepped lanes of Vieux Lyon, the viewpoints over the Saone and the tiled roofs, the Roman theatres of Fourviere on the hillside, and the basilica at the top with its terrace views over the city, the Rhone and, on a clear day, the Alps. Many visitors continue to the Jardin du Rosaire, a terraced garden that winds down the hill toward Vieux Lyon, which gives a gentler descent. A sensible turn-around point for anyone short on time is the Roman theatres, roughly two thirds of the way up. Water is not available along the lane itself, so visitors should carry a bottle, though cafes and fountains are found in Vieux Lyon at the start and a small cafe or shop area near the basilica. There are no refuge huts, but the basilica and the surrounding buildings give shelter in poor weather. Walkers who do not want to descend on foot can take funicular F1 from the hilltop back to Vieux Lyon with a standard TCL ticket. Allow 45 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes depending on stops.