Le Bugey
The area, which stretches from the banks of the Rhône to the plateaux of Retors and Valromey, has many surprises in store. Hikers, walkers, cyclists, skiers, fishermen and swimmers are attracted by its beautiful diverse scenery and hidden treasures.
Le Bugey - THE destination for nature lovers !
Le Bugey is THE destination for nature lovers. The area, which stretches from the banks of the Rhône to the plateaux of Retors and Valromey, has many surprises in store. Hikers, walkers, cyclists, skiers, fishermen and swimmers are attracted by its beautiful diverse scenery and hidden treasures. To the west, in the hills above Ambérieu-en-Bugey, the Château des Allymes castle has stood guard over the entrance to the valleys for many centuries. The original 14th century castle was rebuilt in the 16th century and became part of France in 1601. Visit the castle then continue on towards the Rhône. The Via Rhôna offers a secure path along the Rhône from Sault-Brénaz to Seyssel, passing close to Belley and Culoz. The 50km flat path, partly on cycle lanes, allows all the family to discover the charm of Le Bugey in peace and tranquillity. Bikes (electric or normal) can be hired along the way, notably at Montalieu. Numerous other circular walks and bike rides lead from the river banks through the surrounding hills. 10 circular discovery trails start from the Via Rhona. They are of varying lengths (5km to 29km) and varying climbs (155m to 870m), so there is something for everyone. On arrival at Massignieu-de-Rives, stop off for a picnic and admire the Grand Colombier, the highest mountain (1,534m) in the Le Bugey area.
For those who prefer fishing or swimming, ten lakes nestle among the valleys and hills. The most popular fishing spots include Lac d’Ambléon, Lac Barterand, Lac des Alliettes and Lac Virieu-le-Grand. Fly-fishermen should head for Chaley. Many fishing enthusiasts come from far and wide to fish in the River Albarine. It has to be said that water can be found everywhere in the hills and vales of Le Bugey. Around Artemare there are numerous steep waterfalls, notably the Cascade de Cerveyrieu, with its 62m drop. The Cascade de Glandieu is accessible from the Via Rhôna.
From Glandieu, make a detour to the village of Izieu and visit the Memorial Museum. 44 Jewish children aged from 4 to 17 and 7 adult monitors were arrested here and deported on 6 April 1944 on the orders of Klaus Barbie. Only one female monitor returned… The museum brings to life the story of these refugee children during the war through letters, drawings and descriptions. A deeply moving experience.
Le Bugey – a gourmet destination !
Continue your journey as far as Belley, a diocese since the 6th century, whose historic centre is well worth a visit. Walk along the main street and admire the interior courtyards which date from the 15th century. The most attractive one is the Office de Tourisme. Ask for directions to the birthplace of Brillat-Savarin (1755-1826), author of the « Physiologie du gout (Physiology of taste) » and an Epicurean who unceasingly promoted the ‘black gold’ of Le Bugey – truffles. They are still found (and grown !) today among vines in chalky soil. A truffle market is held every year just before Christmas. Brillat-Savarin also praised the virtues of Manicle, the most precious of Le Bugey wines, which is grown in an area of just 10 hectares at the foot of a 520m high cliff. The Brillat-Savarin family bought a barn and a few hundred square metres of vines there.
Manicle is not the only wine grown in Le Bugey. Wines from the area have a PDO and are well reputed. They are spread over 500 hectares in three production zones: Belley, Montagnieu and Cerdon. Montagnieu are sparkling wines, much appreciated at celebratory events. Young producers have replanted the often harsh, arid slopes with Altesse, Gamay, Pinot noir, Mondeuse and Chardonnay grapes. Visit the wine cellars to taste them. The unique sparkling rosé of Cerdon can be discovered and tasted in the villages of the Ain Valley from Jujurieux to Cerdon, via Mérignat, Poncin or Saint-Martin-du-Mont. This delicate, 8° alcohol content, naturally sparkling wine with a taste of red fruits is one of the treasures of Bugey."
