Montée de la Sauvagère

Climbing the Montée de la Sauvagère is like stepping back in time. This steep, winding staircase isn’t just a path. It’s a journey through Lyon’s hidden history. The Montée de la Sauvagère connects the banks of the Saône to the heights of Saint Rambert. It’s a narrow, sometimes claustrophobic, passage. Yet, it’s also remarkably beautiful, with lush greenery and glimpses of the city beyond. The montée itself is a fascinating blend of natural and man-made elements. It climbs through a small wood, enclosed by iron gates, giving a sense of seclusion. One of the most striking features of the Montée de la Sauvagère is the stone arch bridge. This bridge carries the staircase over a railway line. It’s a powerful symbol of how the city has grown and changed over time. Above the bridge, the steps widen, constructed from large stone blocks. Higher still, the path narrows again, transitioning to concrete steps as it ascends the hill. The iron gates disappear on the hillside, only to reappear as the path nears a viewpoint. From here, you can enjoy stunning panoramic views of the Sauvagère area. You can also see the Saône Valley and the Cuire district. The final flight of stairs runs alongside a stone wall. The wall is adorned with ivy on one side and vibrant cannas on the other. The Montée de la Sauvagère eventually emerges onto Rue Chopin, sloping gently between two villas. The name “Sauvagère” itself is a nod to the area’s past. It refers to a large estate that thrived in the 19th century. Interestingly, the Montée de la Sauvagère doesn’t appear on old maps of Lyon. Its construction likely dates back to the early 20th century. Possibly it’s even connected to the construction of the railway line some fifty years earlier. So, as you climb the Montée de la Sauvagère, remember you’re not just climbing a staircase. You’re walking through a piece of Lyon’s hidden history. It’s a quiet reminder of how nature and urban life can intertwine in surprising and beautiful ways.