Pouilly-sous-Charlieu: Trails, Nature and History

If you’re looking for a hotel for a stay in Pouilly-sous-Charlieu, the focus of your trip can help with planning: hiking, cycling, nature watching, visiting the market, and exploring history offer different starting points. Several trails follow the Loire and Sornin rivers or pass through the countryside; the market and Château de Montrenard also each add their own character.

Hiking trails between the Loire and Sornin

“Les Chambons de Loire” is a trail of around 10 km on the right bank of the Loire. It runs between the Aiguilly bridge near Vougy and the Loire crossing at Pouilly-sous-Charlieu, and can be walked in either direction. The route is intended for people with some hiking experience. It is waymarked and equipped with educational information panels. At the hamlet of Bas de Rajasse, a suspension bridge on the trail spans the confluence of the Jarnossin.

A shorter route is the “De la Loire au Cul de Sornin” discovery trail: it starts at the Loire bridge, is 2.6 km long, and leads to the Sornin’s confluence with the Loire. If you’re looking for more scenery, try the “Entre Loire et Campagne – PR 28” hiking route. It follows the Loire and continues through meadows, woods, and a landscape dotted with châteaux.

Loire riverbanks and nature

The Loire riverbanks in Pouilly-sous-Charlieu are ideal for walks. The Loire provides a habitat for herons, little egrets, swans, and beavers. Nature enthusiasts may also be interested in the restoration of a former gravel pit on the Loire riverbanks at Briennon and Pouilly-sous-Charlieu: it has created habitats that favor the reproduction of the endangered pike.

Culture and history

Château de Montrenard is in the hamlet of Montrenard in Pouilly-sous-Charlieu. It was listed as a historic monument by decree on April 15, 1935.

The railway’s history is also marked by specific dates: Pouilly-sous-Charlieu’s PLM railway station was on the Roanne–Paray-le-Monial line, which opened in 1882, and became the starting point for the line to Chalon-sur-Saône in 1889. The 21 km R4 cycling loop, “Boucle rurale du Grand Couvert,” starts in Pouilly-sous-Charlieu and offers views of Château de Montrenard and Château de Poyet.

Market and local offerings

The Marché de Pouilly-sous-Charlieu takes place every Sunday morning opposite the town hall. Around 15 vendors sell food, clothing, vegetables, and flowers there. If the market is an important part of your plans, check the date again before you travel.

Restaurant de La Loire in Pouilly-sous-Charlieu is associated with chef Raux’s cuisine and was awarded a Michelin star in 2023. Montrenard Equitation offers classical and ethological riding, as well as recreational and outdoor activities.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Mizérieux, Saint-Paul-en-Jarez, Pélussin, Riorges, Renaison, Villerest, Saint-Marcel D'urfé, Aboën.

For the broader travel overview: Loire.