Discover Saint-baudille-de-la-tour, Isère, Rhône-Alpes

You will be able to admire the archeological, architectural and natural jewels of the Isle Crémieu and the Larina Plateau, with its high cliffs, home to falcons, snake eagles, buzzards and other birds of prey. Park in the car park opposite the kiosk in the village centre. Follow the path to the right until it become stony and begins to climb up the cliff. Two thirds of the way up, on the left, is a rocky platform that is tricky to get to. Once you have made your way onto it, take the small Tourdes Remparts track to the left, which leads to the Fontaine de la Vie, the plateau's only spring. From there, take a straight path downhill that takes you to a former riding school. Continue along this cliff-side path, and take in the view of the Val d'Amby and the Château de Brotel. Pass by a picnic area, cross the Catelans road at Larin, and the plateau itself from east to west via a grassy path. It passes over a barren hill and then goes downhill. Bear right through moors, and then head towards the western cliff until you meet the track coming from Bourcieu. Climb back up using this track, and walk along the clifftop. The track overlooks a marshy area and emerges in the archelogical site in Larina (leave at least 1 hour to visit it). There is an important excavation site near the statue of the Virgin Mary. Retrace your steps back along the path you took to climb the cliff to return to the car park in Hières-sur-Amby.

This very gentle itinerary takes you along both banks of the River Rhône, from the stone quarries to the hillsides of Le Bugey, discovering the lovely stone villages and numerous lakes that are dotted discreetly across the landscape like little green gems. From Montalieu-Vercieu near the foothills of Le Bugey, head north along the D1075 road for a few kilometres before turning off to the left and crossing the Rhône into the department of Ain and the ancient village of Sault-Brénaz. Turn right onto the D19 to reach Montagnieu, then right again to take the D19a, crossing back into Isère via the Briord bridge. Take the D16 to find yourself surrounded by the lush greenery of Mépieu and Barral lakes, then follow the D1075 for 2 km until you reach Lancin and the beautiful 15th-century Château de Montchalin. The D140b road then takes you alongside Salette lake to Courtenay. Head back north on the D140a towards Optevez, then on the D52 to Charette before returning to Montalieu-Vercieu on the D1075.

In the heart of Bugey, this section of the ViaRhôna moves slightly away from the river and heads gently towards the authentic villages, châteaux and vineyards of the Balcons du Rhône region. The River Ain flows into the Rhône at Anthon, where a remarkable natural site marks a sharp contrast with the urban area nearby. Then comes the small village of Jons on the outskirts of Greater Lyon, the Jonage canal and the park, Grand Parc de Miribel-Jonage. There is a temporary section on small roads.

Among natural landscapes and stone villages, you'll explore our region from hamlet to hamlet. Between Vassieu, Marieu, Parmilieu, Torjonas, St Baudille de la Tour, Le Vernay and Charette, discover our hills and their diversity of plant life. From Blue Valley, head towards Marieu and Parmilieu, then Combe d'Amblérieu via the forest. You'll cross the charming village of St Baudille de la Tour, the woods of La Perrette and the hamlet of Chapieu. Cycle along the Bryne lakeside, back down to Vercieu and finally Montalieu.

Discover the left and right banks of the Rhône in Ain and Isère, passing from one department to the other on the bridges of Sault-Brenaz/Isle de la Serre and Briord. On either side, the towpaths have a few secrets in store...

Discover the left and right banks of the Rhône in Ain and Isère, passing from one department to the other on the bridges of Sault-Brenaz/Isle de la Serre and Briord. On either side, the towpaths have a few secrets in store...

This mountain-bike itinerary takes you to the Environmentally Sensitive Area of Lemps Lake and also visits the Verbois Gorges.

From Blue Valley, take to the towpaths and the Amblagnieu road to pass the priory and the medicinal herb garden. You'll also pass "Bois Rambe" woods and the "Roche Ronde" rock on the way to the Rhône riverbank.

Short itinerary along the towpath and the Viarhona cycle path, exploring the woods of Le Corniolay and the Blue Valley

This challenging itinerary takes you through Montalieu, Vassieu, Parmilieu and Porcieu, across woodland and between quarries. You'll discover the Bigues trail with its stone features and a beautiful panoramic view over the River Rhône.

Take a refreshing break, under 45 minutes from Lyon. The team at this family campsite will give you a warm and enthusiastic welcome, and introduce you to the various leisure activities available on site and in the local area. A stop off point for the Via Rhona. There is also a heated swimming pool and a lovely children's playground.

Espace Bike, less than an hour from Lyon, has a range of bikes for hire: exercise bikes, VAEs, mountain bikes, electric scooters (measuring over 140cm), all-terrain scooters, pedal go-karts, as well as children's trailers and waterproof panniers. Muscle bikes : What could be better than a nice mountain bike or VTC ride along the ViaRhôna cycle path in the Balcons du Dauphiné? We have a wide range of bikes to suit the whole family. We also offer accessories for your ride. Electrically-assisted bikes : Whether mountain bike, VTC or Gravel, electric-assist bikes are very accessible. You'll be able to ride faster and farther without too much effort, and discover the Balcons du Dauphiné in complete peace of mind. All-terrain e-scooter: This is an unusual means of transport for enjoying the charm of the countryside in complete peace and quiet. Ideal for families with children aged 12 and over. Pedal go-karts: From mini-karts to 4-seater karts, come and enjoy the Vallée Bleue leisure park with your family or friends. Fun for 4-year-olds and up! Helmets are included in the rental price. You can of course bring your own equipment. Before departure, you can borrow a hand pump, anti-theft devices, maps and yellow vests.

Small pools, labyrinths, concretions and a lake: the Grottes de La Balme, located 40 minutes from Lyon, are rich in what nature has shaped. Discover a rare and exceptional natural site offering an unusual insight into the underground world! Arrive under this impressive porch and enter the bowels of the cliff to discover labyrinths, an underground lake, stalactites and stalagmites, an amphitheater of small pools... that's what the Grottes de La Balme have to offer. Take your time on a self-guided tour lasting around 1 hour 15 minutes, or take a guided tour (booking required). Visited since 1807, the Grottes de La Balme reveal their history and mysteries as you explore 1,000 meters of underground galleries. Located in the Nord-Isère region, in the center of the village of La Balme-les-Grottes, the caves are an exciting detour in the Balcons du Dauphiné region. Round off your day with a free visit to the Espace Naturel Sensible “Les Coteaux de Saint-Roch”, with its signposted path and discovery booklet. This protected natural area allows you to observe the particular features of the cliffs, forest and dry grasslands surrounding the Grottes de La Balme, home to numerous species of protected plants and animals. Become true adventurers with our 100% family-friendly activities! A playful visit with Archibalme's Investigation: young and old alike will be delighted. Summer and winter alike, the underground world never ceases to amaze! The souvenir store is open at the same time as the caves, and offers a wide range of gifts: crockery, textiles, stones, a selection of books and other must-have items for yourself or as a gift.

Enjoy a pleasant one-hour ride between Montalieu Vallée Bleue and the Sault Brenaz bridge in a superb locotractor! This 4km line uses historic equipment, bringing back to life the departmental trains of the 1900s. The starting station is the former Gare du Chemin de Fer de l'Est de Lyon, dating from 1895. The route runs along the banks of the Rhône before entering a wooded area. This means you can enjoy a bit of fresh air under the trees for around 1/3 of the route.

The Camping Point Vert is a 3 star campsite set in a wooded area on the banks of the River Rhône near the delightful village of Serrières-de-Briord. The campsite comprises 131 encampments and has 6 mobile homes available. The Camping Point Vert has all you will need for a fantastic family holiday, with a swimming pool, games room, tennis courts, shop, playground, volleyball court, TV room and Wi-Fi available throughout the campsite. Additionally the campsite is located right next-door to the Point Vert Activity Centre where one can partake in a host of water based activities such as sailing and kayaking or just relax on the supervised beach. In the evenings there is plenty of entertainment organised by the campsite staff.

Located on the Vallée Bleue leisure park and right next to Viarhôna, the campsite offers its customers free access to the heated swimming pool (in season only). Ideal for a cycling break or a family getaway. The campsite is located on the Viarhona route and offers pitches for tents, caravans and motorhomes, as well as mobile homes for 4, 6 and 8 people. New for 2024: unusual accommodation in POD huts and trapper huts! On-site snack bar, launderette, small grocery shop, boules pitch, small play area and table tennis table, board games and book cupboard, barbecue available, waste sorting and compost bin.

A recently renovated hotel and restaurant with views of the Rhone and the Bugey cliffs. Located on the RD1075, the hotel is soundproofed and the food served in the restaurant is prepared with attention to detail.

A perfect place for cyclists or travellers who want to stay on budget. 30 rooms all equipped. HD television, TNT and wifi included. Bathroom and separate WC. The beautiful tree-filled park with a view on the rhône river invites to relaxation.

« Le gîte » has been designed to welcome groups. It includes all the equipment you need everyday… It is composed of 2 floors : upstairs, there are 6 rooms of 4 beds, one room of 2 beds (with bunk beds in each room), showers and toilets. Please bring your sleeping bags, pillows and toilet bag. We provide fitted sheets. On the ground floor, there is a kitchen, a common room with tables and chairs, a TV room and toilets. The kitchen is equipped with electric cooking plates, an oven, a micro-wave, a dish-washer, a fridge with a freezer compartment, a coee machine and all the usual kitchen tools for about 30 persons (crockery, pots and pans). We leave it up to you to bring sponge, washingup liquid, dishwashing detergent, cloth, cleaning supplies, toilet paper… We remind you that the house is available from 2 p.m the day of your arrival and has to be left at 12 a.m the day of your departure.

At the heart of the Espace Eau Vive site, a sports leisure centre, the campsite is located on the banks of the Rhône and Viarhona rivers. We offer classic pitches, camper van pitches and accommodation in domino tents or trapper tents. Cycling welcome. The Espace Eau Vive team can offer you a choice to suit your needs and budget. At your disposal: 5A electrical connection, 200m² marquee , picnic tables, heated toilet block, laundry room and hot showers. Ice creams, cold drinks. Domino tents: At the heart of the Espace Eau Vive site, the 3 domino tents each sleep 6. There is a dining area with two fridges and 2 gas rings, as well as a communal tent with tables and benches for meals. Trapper tents: The trapper area comprises 4 wooden tents, each sleeping 6, a 3m x 3m kitchen tent with two fridges, 2 gas rings and a 32m² communal tent with tables and benches for meals. For all tents: Bring pillows, fitted sheets, sleeping bags (only the undersheet is provided), toilet paper and all kitchen utensils (saucepans, crockery, cutlery, etc.). There is no heating or lighting in the tents (lighting in the kitchen and dining tents only). The campsite has been awarded the ‘Accueil Vélo’ label, and is equipped with an inflation station and a totem with a number of tools, as well as covered bike lockers.

The ponds shelter endangered species of amphibians such as the Treefrog and Crested Newt, as well as a protected plant: Teucrium scordium. The site forms an 'oasis of nature' in the middle of the agricultural plain.

The Hières-sur-Amby archaeological museum, located below the Larina site, uses its collections to present the history of settlement on the Isle Crémieu, from prehistoric times to the early Middle Ages. Entirely renovated and extended, the museum offers a new and original look at the people who wrote the history of Isle Crémieu. It is located in the heart of the village dominated by the cliffs and the Larina archaeological site. Designed to facilitate the understanding of archaeology and the relationship of man to his environment, the museum traces the history of human occupation from Prehistory to the early Middle-Age. From the prehistoric ceramics from the La Balme caves to the archaeological remains at the Larina site, from the tomb of the Celtic Prince and the Gallo-Roman villa of St Romain de Jalionas to the chariot burial of a gallic aristocrat from Verna, all these pieces offer a unique experience to the visitors. With what are sometimes exceptional archaeological objects, the understanding of time is facilitated by the interpretation of the remains with the help of maps, models and many reconstructions. Throughout a simple and illustrated chronology, the daily life, lifestyles, conflicts and funerary rites of the successive populations on the territory are unveiled. Weapons, ornaments, crafts, burials... all the elements are presented in the exhibition, allowing visitors to appreciate and interpret the technical, artistic and architectural developments. The museum now has a temporary exhibition hall, where it features a very wide variety of displays.

Observing and listening to the birds in their natural environment is an activity which will delight the whole family. There are 130 species of birds, including the Little Bittern, Reed Bunting, Kingfisher, Eurasian Reed Warbler...

In the heart of Isle Crémieu lies the étang de Lemps, a representative pond of the wetlands in Nord Isère. This 23ha site is part of Optevoz and Saint-Baudille-de-la-Tour villages. A thematic trail and an observatory with disabled access introduce visitors to the lake's aquatic life, including the remarkable European pond turtle, an endangered specie. Emblem of the site, the pond turtle is a threatened specie due to the disappearance of its habitat. The étang de Lemps is an ideal environment (water, shade, adapted banks and dry slopes for the laying of eggs). the live, feed and breed at the water's edge. How do you recognize it? It is about 20cm long, the males have red eyes and the females have small, yellow eyes. They have a black body with yellow dots. Among the 457 plant species surveyed, there are orchids, marsh pennywort, southern adderstongue, European Michaelmas daisies... Flora: 14 heritage species (Lax-flowered orchids, Anacampus palustris, Bombycilaena erecta, Marsh pennywort, Knautia Timeroyii, Spiny water nymph, Adder's tongue, Threadleaf crowfoot, Golden dock, Downy woundwort, Teucrium scordium, Common meadow rue, Southern bladderwort, Smooth vetch) Fauna: 3 invertebrate heritage species (Small red-eye damselfly, Stag beetle, Desmoulin's whorl snail) 17 species of reptiles and amphibians (Agile frog, European pond turtle...) 130 species of birds (Little bittern, Reed bunting) , Kingfisher, Eurasian reed warbler, Great reed warbler...) Habitats: 12 heritage habitats (eutrophic stagnant water, phragmites)

Nestling in the heart of the charming village of Annoisin-Chatelans, this small museum invites you to discover the local history of lauze roofing. The museum highlights the skills that have shaped the landscapes and homes of the Isle-Crémieu plateau. Located inside the Auberge de Larina, the museum immerses visitors in the history and techniques involved in laying lauze, the golden-coloured stone emblematic of the Isle-Crémieu region. The first room presents the geological aspect of this stone, the extraction work in the quarries and the tools used. Evidence of the time when the quarries were in full operation is also on display. The second part of the museum focuses on lauze roofing techniques, illustrated by examples of local architecture. The Crémieu covered market, with its imposing framework capable of supporting the weight of these stones, is a fine example of this know-how. After your visit, we recommend a stroll through the village of Annoisin-Chatelans to discover the typical architecture of this part of the Balcons du Dauphiné.

The church was built in 1833 from local stone and dedicated to Saint Louis. Its interior was last restored in 1975. The church still boasts its original stained-glass windows, including that of the chancel which catches the eye with a beam of harmonious colour appearing to emanate from Saint Louis. (Source: Les Communes du Pays des Couleurs se Racontent). Canton of Morestel administrative district. Le Pays des Couleurs (Land of Colours).)

The current church was probably built in the late 18th century. Its interior is very plain, apart from the high altar, sculpted by Adami de Lyon in 1861, which was moved from the chancel to the right-hand chapel. The church was extended in 1841 and the roof restored in 1866. The current stained-glass windows were installed in 1951. Three bells are still in operation today.

The Ninon Vallin centre is named after the opera singer who was born in Montalieu-Vercieu. It is a cultural and recreational venue comprising an auditorium with 383 seats and a 600 m² multi-purpose room. Auditorium 340 seats in tiered rows Sound and lighting equipment A 15 metre wide stage Video and screening equipment A giant screen (9.5 x 4.5 metres) 4 dressing rooms (2 group and 2 individual) Air-conditioning Multi-purpose room 600 m² 2 group changing rooms Fitted kitchen Dance floor 450 chairs & tables as required Atrium Reception area Bar Refrigerator

The village of Bouvesse-Quirieu has a washhouse in each hamlet: Bouvesse, Chavanne, Enieu, Marlieu, Quirieu, Quirieu Port and Le Bayard. Originally, these "gabouillons", as they were called in the region, were very basic reservoirs dug out near the streams. All of the washhouses were built in the same layout, with a roof to protect the washerwomen from the rain or sun. To allow daylight through, the working area was never protected by a wall.

The whole team is waiting for you to try the traditional cuisine, pizzas and specialities. Fixed price menu available at lunchtime. Contemporary decor. Located in the centre of Montalieu-Vercieu (2 min from the Vallée Bleue) Pizzas, to eat in, take away or have delivered, delivery service available in 10km radius from the restaurant. Free delivery for 2 pizzas or more.

Pizzas, mussels and chips (in summer), and its traditional menu (salads, pasta...) Bar and ice creams served in the afternoon.

Roxane and Olivier welcome you to a fully renovated 19th-century building, a former coaching inn that combines old stone and modernity as it should be. We look forward to welcoming you for a stopover, whether for business or pleasure. Single, comfort, and family rooms, equipped with private bathroom, mini bar, LCD TV and some with air conditioning. Restaurant combining old stones and modernity, a warm, friendly welcome and cuisine prepared according to the seasons and daily deliveries of fresh produce.

Restaurant located on the banks of the Rhone, near the Via Rhona. Shaded terrace.

Loïc serves market fresh, seasonal cuisine, which diners can enjoy on the terrace in the village square in summer. The fixed price menus are excellent value for money, and the gourmet dishes in the evenings and at weekends will delight your taste buds. After travelling the world as a chef, working particularly in Switzerland, Canada and Luxembourg, Loïc Normand took over Le Chantegrit in July 2014. His career and travels allow him to develop creative and inventive dishes based on French cuisine. From the Lesdiguières catering college in Grenoble, via the Chamber of Trade in Savoy, he has been influence by the chef Gilles Vernice, who he has worked with many times, both in summer and winter. Lunchtime: starter, main, dessert, €15: seasonal, market fresh cuisine In the evening: menus between €21 and €36: gourmet cuisine Children's menu, €10 Specialties of the house: cassoulet from the south west Wines Le Chantegrit's wine list does not exceed €29 Burgundy (Haute Cotes de Nuits, Passetoutgrain Cotes du Rhône (Croze Hermitage, Saint Joseph) Savoy wines (Mondeuse, Roussette) Bordeaux Champagnes and sparkling wines

Traditional cuisine - Dish of the day - Italian specialities - Frogs' legs and wishbones.

Dish of the day and a choice of dishes. Traditional cuisine based on fresh, seasonal produce. Salad menu/Grilled meats.

Kebabs and Turkish cuisine. 100% veal meat. Fresh produce. To eat in or take away.

Located in the village of Hières sur Amby, 30 km from Lyon, this hotel and restaurant will give you a warm welcome for a relaxing break, surrounded by nature. Make the most of the hiking trails in the area and the Grottes de la Balme and Larina archaeological site.

Take a refreshing break, under 45 minutes from Lyon. The team at this family campsite will give you a warm and enthusiastic welcome, and introduce you to the various leisure activities available on site and in the local area. A stop off point for the Via Rhona. There is also a heated swimming pool and a lovely children's playground.

In a country setting, come and recharge your batteries and relax in the Village des Pêcheurs, where you will receive a warm welcome from Fabienne and Lucien Rigot

The Camping Point Vert is a 3 star campsite set in a wooded area on the banks of the River Rhône near the delightful village of Serrières-de-Briord. The campsite comprises 131 encampments and has 6 mobile homes available. The Camping Point Vert has all you will need for a fantastic family holiday, with a swimming pool, games room, tennis courts, shop, playground, volleyball court, TV room and Wi-Fi available throughout the campsite. Additionally the campsite is located right next-door to the Point Vert Activity Centre where one can partake in a host of water based activities such as sailing and kayaking or just relax on the supervised beach. In the evenings there is plenty of entertainment organised by the campsite staff.

Located on the Vallée Bleue leisure park and right next to Viarhôna, the campsite offers its customers free access to the heated swimming pool (in season only). Ideal for a cycling break or a family getaway. The campsite is located on the Viarhona route and offers pitches for tents, caravans and motorhomes, as well as mobile homes for 4, 6 and 8 people. New for 2024: unusual accommodation in POD huts and trapper huts! On-site snack bar, launderette, small grocery shop, boules pitch, small play area and table tennis table, board games and book cupboard, barbecue available, waste sorting and compost bin.

Paying access to drinking water and waste disposal when the campsite is open. Parking allowed for 36h on the leisure base.

A recently renovated hotel and restaurant with views of the Rhone and the Bugey cliffs. Located on the RD1075, the hotel is soundproofed and the food served in the restaurant is prepared with attention to detail.

This free parking area does not have access to water or waste disposal. It is a pretty place to stop for the night at the bottom of the village, and is appreciated by holidaymakers. The ground was stabilised to retain the natural aspect of the site, some shrubs were planted and a solid wood table made by a local craftsman was attached to the ground. The site totally respects the local environment. Since this area does not have the necessary infrastructure for waste disposal, holidaymakers are asked to take their waste away with them. Recycling containers and bins are available at the entrance of the cemetery just next to the church in the village square.

A perfect place for cyclists or travellers who want to stay on budget. 30 rooms all equipped. HD television, TNT and wifi included. Bathroom and separate WC. The beautiful tree-filled park with a view on the rhône river invites to relaxation.

« Le gîte » has been designed to welcome groups. It includes all the equipment you need everyday… It is composed of 2 floors : upstairs, there are 6 rooms of 4 beds, one room of 2 beds (with bunk beds in each room), showers and toilets. Please bring your sleeping bags, pillows and toilet bag. We provide fitted sheets. On the ground floor, there is a kitchen, a common room with tables and chairs, a TV room and toilets. The kitchen is equipped with electric cooking plates, an oven, a micro-wave, a dish-washer, a fridge with a freezer compartment, a coee machine and all the usual kitchen tools for about 30 persons (crockery, pots and pans). We leave it up to you to bring sponge, washingup liquid, dishwashing detergent, cloth, cleaning supplies, toilet paper… We remind you that the house is available from 2 p.m the day of your arrival and has to be left at 12 a.m the day of your departure.