Hiking - Sainte Blandine - Saint-Julien Molin Molette No. 2
This cross is said to protect the village from thunderstorms. On the edge of the forest, it overlooks the orchards, streams, and the polychrome bell tower.
From this natural viewpoint, on a clear day, hikers can enjoy a magnificent panorama of the Ardèche mountains, the Rhône River, and the Alps.
Take the D8 road towards Annonay, then the road to Combenoire. In Chatagnard, take a sharp right and follow the GR 65 trail, marked with red and white blazes, which connects Geneva to Le Puy-en-Velay; it is one of the pilgrimage routes to Santiago de Compostela, very popular in season with German and Swiss pilgrims discovering our region. After passing through Combenoire and reaching a plateau, leave the GR trail and take the path on the left. The Sainte-Blandine Cross is 50 m on the right, in the municipality of Saint-Appolinard.
Head to the hamlet of Le Verdier, then take the D 34 to the left for 200 m towards Colombier. Next, take the downhill path on the left that leads to La Miellerie. At La Miellerie, follow the road for 300 m and take the path on the right until you reach a small paved road.
Turn left, then right. After 300 m, leave the road and take the path that crosses through the La Rivory farms (a rough track lined with stones) towards St-Julien via La Plessa.
⚠️ Caution, high-traffic road, stay alert.
Everyone is responsible for their own safety. Therefore, you hike at your own risk. Please stay on the marked trails to protect fragile ecosystems.
A few recommendations:
- Check the weather forecast before you leave
- Some routes cross high-traffic roads: Be careful
- Keep dogs on a leash
- Do not light fires
- Carry out your trash
- Enjoy the flowers, but do not pick them.
- Tick bites can cause serious illnesses; for prevention: wear long clothing, use repellents, check yourself upon your return, remove ticks with a tick remover tool without applying any substance to them, and see a doctor if you notice redness, flu-like symptoms, or if you are in a high-risk group.
- For emergencies, dial 18 or 112.