La Dombes
La Dombes is a great place to visit alone, with family or friends on foot, on horseback or by bike.
La Dombes – land of a thousand lakes
La Dombes is a vast plateau dotted with small lakes to the east of Lyon. Nicknamed La Dombes of a thousand lakes, this part of the Ain region is a paradise for birds. More than 130 species nest here before flying off to other climes. Numerous bird-watchers come to the lakes to observe crested grebes, whiskered terns and great reed warblers. La Dombes is a great place to visit alone, with family or friends on foot, on horseback or by bike.
Before La Dombes became a province of France in the 18th century, the northern part belonged to the Beaujeu and Bourbon families and the south to the Dukes of Savoy. However, it was not until the 19th century that monks settled at Le Plantay and undertook to drain the marshland where malaria was rife. The monks dug hundreds of small lakes and ponds, taking care to make them slightly sloping so that the water would run towards the draining point known as “le thou”. Fish farming developed. Carp and pike became a commercial success. Pond fisheries still exist today and are active during autumn and winter. Visitors are welcome, so don’t hesitate to go and watch this ancestral practice, you won’t be disappointed !
The Bird Park at Villars-les-Dombes lies in the middle of the lakeland area. It is considered to be the finest bird park in Europe with more than 3,000 bird species from around the world. Every year new zones are created for new birds. Children won’t easily forget the lories feeding from their hands and the whole family can enjoy the breathtaking aerial displays at the bird show. A wonderful day out with lots to see… !
La Dombes is a great area for walking with several circular walks from one lake to another. You can even hire bikes to cycle around the roads before a little bus takes you back to the starting point. On your walk or bike ride you may pass large brick-built châteaux, some of them fortified, which are typical of the region. Among the finest are those at Bouligneux, Le Montellier, Joyeux and Saint-Paul-de-Varax.
A paradise for golfers, horse riders and hikers
La Dombes is a paradise for golfers as its wide open spaces are perfect sites for 18 holes. Over the years, La Dombes has become a major horse-breeding region with numerous stud farms. There is no shortage of centres with indoor riding schools or offering rides with family or friends.
History lovers will not be disappointed as many villages boast fine Romanesque churches, some with their original frescoes. However, there is one absolute must to visit – Pérouges, a medieval village with cobbled streets and 15th century houses. This popular tourist spot is classed as one of the « Loveliest Villages in France ». When visiting don’t forget to try its famous ‘galette’ made to a secret recipe.
Other gems in La Dombes include the little village of Châtillon-sur-Chalaronne, a former seignory with well-preserved 15th century buildings like its covered market. Shoppers still come from all over La Dombes to the weekly Saturday morning market. Visit the Apothecary’s house and the Model Train Museum in the village and a few kilometres outside discover koï carp at the Jardin Aquatique.
Finally, head towards the River Saône and the town of Trévoux, a former Principality of Dombes and home of the Parlement de l’Ancien Régime, an 18th century building whose interior is decorated with splendid paintings glorifying justice which are listed works of art.
How to get there ?
From Lyon or Bourg-en-Bresse, follow the D 1083. From Villefranche-sur-Saône, take the D7.
Our selection of accommodations
Lodging
Gîtes du canard vert - Le Héron gris
in BOULIGNEUX - Ain
