Ain (rivière) walks

Pleasure in cascades. This extraordinary walk around the Pertes de l’Ain gorges sets out from the remarkable site of the old forges and is a delight for all the senses. Along the way: The Pertes de l’Ain, gorges, cascades, the ruins of Villain castle, and the relics of an old village.

A splendid hike between the plateau and the steep-sided valley of the Ain. This circuit offers an opportunity to discover the upper Ain valley and its unique geology, with its Vaucluse spring, waterfalls (Le Moulinet, Saut des Maillys, Moulin-du-Saut) and ruined mills, evidence of how humans once harnessed the power of water. In fact, an EDF hydroelectric plant has replaced the old Moulin-du-Saut.

This is a circular route from Bolozon, passing through pretty villages (Balvay, Solomiat and Napt) and overlooking the Gorges de l'Ain. This is a "classic" route (often suggested in the opposite direction) that does not present any major difficulties.

After an initial wooded section, you will be rewarded with a beautiful view of the Ain river valley from the top of the Jarbonnet rocks. The river winds its way through the valley below. The summit is not very popular and is mainly known to climbers who enjoy the routes offered by the cliff.

A lord had three daughters of marriageable age. Capricious, they found all suitors unworthy. Annoyed, the fairy Melusine turned them into stone statues. Erosion has destroyed two of these gossips. Time will get the better of the last one, so don't delay in paying her a visit. On the way, you will see the ruins of a castle perched on the cliffs, views of the Val de Sirod, and picturesque stony paths winding through beautiful rocks. Return via the Perte de l'Ain and its superb gorges.

Under the pine trees, immerse yourself in a Mediterranean atmosphere and marvel at the turquoise waters of Lake Vouglans stretching as far as the eye can see. Let the grains of sand covering the beaches caress your skin. The only thing missing from this picture is the taste of salt on your lips to make you believe in this unlikely little sea in the mountains. This easy walk from the port of La Mercantine will take you to Maisod Castle and along Lake Vouglans

On either side of the Pont de la Pyle bridge, there are so many beautiful things to see, do and discover! One side takes you along a long, quiet path through the woods, running alongside the lake, with viewpoints and picnic areas. The other side, which is more touristy, takes you to the ruins of a castle, caves, viewpoints, and a leisure area with a harbour and a beach. In short, everything you need for a great day out! A beautiful route for trail running enthusiasts.

A magnificent hike with panoramic views of the Ain and the Jura plateaus, caves and waterfalls.

Welcome to the imaginary land of South Jura. On this 7 Tales on a Walk trail, take a short storytelling walk with your family and immerse yourself in the story of the lost mermaid. The starting point is marked by an entrance gate (in the form of a giant book), on which is written the type of object you will have to look for and follow throughout the walk. Step through this door to enter a world full of mystery.

From Matefelon-Granges, I suggest you take a 11 km circular trail through the Ain Valley, then the Oignin Valley. Along the way, you will enjoy views of Thoire, the Château de Coiselet (private), the Saut de l'Oignin waterfall and its potholes, and finally the lake upstream.

Ten minutes from Champagnole, the most powerful of the medieval fortresses still stood not so long ago... A nature and heritage walk awaits you through the Val de Sirod around the site of the Perte de l'Ain, which is at the end of this route. You will pass by the Château Villain fortress, viewpoints, the Rocher des Commères, the castle chapel, the Fontaine des Tufs, the Roche des Sarrasins, the village of Syam, and more.

Je vous propose un petit parcours permettant de rejoindre Heyriat à partir de Granges situé pas très loin des bords de l'Ain.

The Échappée Jurassienne is an invitation to discover, step by step, the striking diversity of the Jura Mountains. This 15-day itinerary links the west to the east, from the plains to the mountains, crossing the unspoilt landscapes of the Haut-Jura Regional Nature Park, far from the borders and close to the essentials. From the peaceful canals of Dole, the trail winds its way through the most iconic sites of the Jura: the Cirque de Baume, lakes, remote valleys, viewpoints and deep forests, before ending majestically in Saint-Claude, a town nestled in the heart of the mountains. Over the course of these 311 km, this itinerary becomes much more than a hike: it is a true distillation of the most exceptional things the Jura has to offer. The richness of the landscapes, the contrasts in altitude and the authenticity of the villages you encounter allow everyone to surpass themselves, immerse themselves fully in the wild beauty and reconnect with the essentials.

This is a short, easy loop that allows you to discover the panorama at the confluence of the Rhône and Ain rivers, the picturesque village of Anthon and its surroundings, including the banks of the Rhône and the beautiful town hall of Chavanoz.

Tenth stage of the Échappée Jurassienne. For this stage starting from Châtillon, you will head towards the largest natural lake in the Jura: the magnificent Lac de Chalain. A true blue jewel surrounded by limestone rocks, the lake can be seen in all its splendour from the plateau, offering breathtaking panoramic views. You will then walk through stunning natural landscapes before reaching Menétrux-en-Joux, located near the famous Hérisson waterfalls. An adventure where every step will reveal enchanting and varied scenery!

Ninth stage of the Échappée Jurassienne. This transitional stage marks the end of a region full of unexpected treasures, including salt mines, majestic forests, vineyards, charming villages and iconic remote areas, and takes you to the Pays des Lacs et des Cascades (Land of Lakes and Waterfalls). A winding balcony trail will take you to the first plateau with its pastures, farms and small villages. Overlooking the Ain valley, you will end this route in Châtillon, where you will catch a glimpse of the first foothills of the Jura.