Planfoy – Circular Hike, Via Ferrata and Local History

Planfoy offers several distinct points of interest for planning a trip: a moderate circular hike with specified time and elevation profiles, the “Le Pas du Riot” discovery trail, vertical activities at the Pôle vertical, and the history of the church. Consider whether you would like to focus on a circular hike, a fun forest walk, climbing activities or a historical connection during your stay.

Hiking with time and elevation profile

Le Tour des Barrages Planfoy 4 is a moderate 9.1 km circular hike. The route data published for 2026 list a walking time of 3 hours 30 minutes, an ascent of 315 m and a descent of 317 m—almost identical elevation figures. Route data may be revised; check them again before your hike. The route starts and ends at Planfoy town hall; the start and finish depend on local trail conditions. This gives you both a specific walking time and separately listed elevation figures for planning purposes.

Via Ferrata and mountain course

The adult Via Ferrata at the Pôle vertical in Planfoy runs along a rock face secured with a cable. The route includes ladders, walkways, beams, a suspension bridge and a 200 m zip line; an alternative route is available. As operating conditions may change, check the current conditions before taking part.

On the mountain course, an intermediate activity between Via Ferrata and climbing, you move along while roped in. Check the equipment and access before taking part. The children’s Via Ferrata features a 30 m course on rock and various practice elements, including a suspended net, small jumps and swings. Operating conditions at this facility may also change.

Forest walk and church history

The “Le Pas du Riot” discovery trail is an easy, fun walk. Questions introduce visitors to species in the Les Grands Bois forest. The trail ends in a wetland area before descending to the dam; it also leads to a viewpoint overlooking the dam and the village of Planfoy. Trail conditions may change, so it is advisable to check them before your visit.

There are also two specific historical points of reference for a cultural focus: Planfoy’s first church became a parish church in 1822, and the present-day church was built in 1872. The dates refer to different events—the change in status of the first church and the construction of the present-day church.

Choose a focus for your trip

The circular hike focuses on walking time and elevation profile, while the Pas du Riot focuses on forest species and the viewpoint. At the Pôle vertical, the activities differ in their features and in the mountain course’s roped progression. If you would like to include local history in your trip planning alongside nature and activities, the two church dates offer another perspective on Planfoy.

Discover more destinations: Malleval, Fourneaux, L'etrat, Épercieux-Saint-Paul, Villars, Saint-Galmier, Saint-Nizier-De-Fornas, Fontanès.

For the broader travel overview: Loire.