Grand Parc Miribel Jonage Lake Circuit

The Grand Parc Miribel Jonage lake circuit is a network of flat, signposted loops around the lakes and forests of a large park east of Lyon, in the Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes region of France. The park's address is Chemin de la Bletta, 69120 Vaulx-en-Velin, and the loops link the L'Atol leisure base and its swimming beaches. Visitors can reach it by the cycle path that runs from the Parc de la Tete d'Or, or by the summer Echappees Nature bus from Lyon, with details at grand-parc.fr; the park can also be contacted on +33 4 78 80 56 20. Parking is available at several entrances, and walking in the park does not require a permit, though charges may apply for specific activities or at certain entrances, which should be confirmed locally. The circuits range from about 7 km to 20 km, taking 1 hour 30 minutes to 4 hours, with a flat profile that makes them easy even over longer distances. The surface is a mix of forest paths, gravel tracks and paved cycle ways, so walkers share some stretches with cyclists. Shade comes from riverside forest, but the lakeshore and open sections are exposed to the sun, and July and August midday heat can be intense. Landmarks include the lakes themselves, the wooded paths of the old Rhone floodplain, the L'Atol leisure base with its beaches and facilities, and viewpoints over the water. Because the loops connect at several junctions, walkers can shorten the route at will and return to the main entrances. Water and toilets are available at the leisure base and some facilities, but fewer along the quieter forest sections, so a bottle should be carried. There are no refuge huts, though buildings at the leisure base give shelter. Signposts mark the routes, which makes navigation straightforward. The park is also popular with cyclists, runners and swimmers in warm weather.