Discover Rive-De-Gier

Rive-De-Gier brings together the history of coal mining and the Canal de Givors with event venues, a cinema and nature-related attractions. The city offers different ways to explore these themes, from a historic section of canal to seasonal events.

Canal de Givors and mining history

The former Canal de Givors was intended to connect the Rhône and the Loire; however, only the Givors–Rive-de-Gier section was completed. Inaugurated in 1781, it supplied the Rive-de-Gier coal basin for half a century before being superseded by the railway. The difference between the planned connection and the section actually completed helps put the canal’s history into context: its role in serving the coal basin is as much a part of that history as its later replacement by the railway.

The Puits Combélibert was inaugurated in 1780 and originally extended to a depth of 80 m. The wooden headframe dating from 1855, the engine house and the large chimney were designated as historic monuments by decree on 25 August 1995. In France, the Puits is considered a rare and particularly symbolic relic of coal mining. The dates mark different milestones: the inauguration of the Puits, the headframe and its later designation as a historic monument.

Events, cinema and the city centre

The Salle Jean Dasté is located in the city centre, has 470 seats and features a spacious stage. It regularly hosts concerts, theatre and dance performances, as well as other community events. L’Imprimerie Café-Théâtre offers a varied programme throughout the year, including comedy, music, magic and theatre. If a particular cultural event is an important part of your stay, check its date, as the venues’ programmes may change.

Ciné Chaplin has three air-conditioned screening rooms, a cultural café and fully renovated reception areas. It is accessible to people with reduced mobility. If accessibility is important to your visit, confirm the latest information in advance.

The Jardin des Plantes is in the city centre on Quai Fleurdelix, near Place de la Libération. Events are held there regularly during the warmer months. If you are planning your visit around a particular event, check its date; the programme is seasonal.

Getting there, cycling and nature

Rive-De-Gier is connected by SNCF rail services and the A47 motorway. You can take both into account when planning your journey and check the specific connections for your travel date. Cycling infrastructure is also developing: the city regularly builds new sections of cycle paths and 30 km/h zones, and a cycling plan is currently being implemented. If you plan to cycle, check the latest conditions before setting out.

Its proximity to the Parc naturel régional du Pilat and the coteaux du Jarez makes Rive-De-Gier a starting point for nature walks, which are popular with hikers and cyclists. Alongside industrial heritage sites, walks in nature offer another reason to visit. When planning, consider whether you would like to focus on the history of mining and canals, a particular event, or time spent in nature.

Discover more destinations: Pélussin, Montbrison, Les Salles, Neaux, Estivareilles, Saint-Didier-Sur-Rochefort, Villars, Sail-Sous-Couzan.

View the broader travel guide: Loire.