Itinerary no. 12 "Via the Larina site"

La Vallée Bleue is a multi-activity leisure site located in the Balcons du Dauphiné in the Auvergne Rhône-Alpes region. It offers a multitude of activities on the banks of the Rhône, in a remarkable natural setting.Vallée Bleue offers a wide range of water sports: pedalos, stand-up paddles, mini cruises on the Rhône, boat hire with or without a licence, jet skis, flyborards, etc. Located on the ViaRhôna cycle route linking Lake Geneva to the Mediterranean, you can also hire bikes from Espace Bike. There is an FFCT base on site, offering 13 mountain bike trails of varying levels of difficulty. For younger visitors, there are pony rides, pedal go-karts, miniature golf and tree climbing. For swimming, the aquapark with heated pool and waterslide is open from June to August.

Situated between Optevoz and Saint-Baudille-de-la-Tour, the Étang de Lemps is an iconic Sensitive Natural Area in the Isle-Crémieu region. This 23-hectare protected site is home to a remarkable diversity of wildlife in the heart of the Nord-Isère wetlands.Having changed little since the 18th century, this site is subject to environmental management and scientific monitoring designed to preserve the exceptional richness of its natural habitats. Reed beds, ponds, wet meadows, dry meadows, hedgerows and limestone hillsides form a mosaic of habitats that are home to remarkable biodiversity. Twelve heritage habitats have been identified here, including eutrophic standing waters and extensive reed beds, which serve as true refuges for aquatic wildlife. The flora comprises 457 plant species, including 14 heritage species. Throughout the seasons, visitors can see wild orchids, the loose-flowered orchid, the marsh orchid, water germander, southern bladderwort, common adder’s-mouth and Amelle aster, all of which bear witness to the ecological richness of this wetland. The wildlife is equally remarkable. The pond is home to 130 species of birds, including the Little Bittern, the Kingfisher, the Reed Bunting and various types of Reed Warbler, which find the reed beds an ideal place to feed, breed or stop off during their migration. The terrestrial habitats are also home to numerous amphibians and reptiles, as well as heritage insects such as the green damselfly and the stag beetle. A real window onto nature, the birdwatching hide allows visitors to observe wildlife without disturbing it. Situated on the edge of the reedbed, it offers a prime vantage point for watching waterbirds and aquatic life all year round. Depending on the season, you can witness bird migrations, observe breeding species or spot those that simply stop off at the pond. An educational wheel installed in the observatory helps visitors identify the species present depending on the month of their visit, making each visit a different experience. With a little patience and a pair of binoculars, dragonflies, herons, kingfishers and many other species reveal themselves to the most observant visitors. You can explore the Étang de Lemps along an educational trail featuring nine information points that explain how wetlands work, water management, the landscapes of Isle-Crémieu, and the close links between the various natural habitats and the species that inhabit them. For a more interactive experience, two orienteering trails are also available on the site: one for adults and one for children. Each trail is 3.6 km long and features eight checkpoints; they follow the same route but include questions tailored to each age group. It’s an original way to explore the Étang de Lemps, taking in its natural heritage whilst enjoying a family challenge.

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.

Nestling in the heart of the village of Annoisin-Chatelans, these two rooms invite you to discover the local history of lauze working and highlight 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.

Repair workshop for bicycles and electric scooters. Diagnosis, maintenance, adjustments and repairs on quote. Possibility to drop off your equipment by appointment. The workshop also has a small sales area to refine your equipment.The Espace Bike has a repair workshop open to all cyclists: mountain bikes, VTC, road bikes, e-bikes and electric scooters. Our mechanic carries out diagnostics, revisions, adjustments, routine maintenance and more technical repairs, always on quote to ensure transparency and serenity. Whether you need a simple adjustment, a change of part, a Bosch engine diagnosis or a complete refurbishment, your equipment is taken care of with care and professionalism. Making an appointment is possible to drop off your bike or scooter directly at the workshop. A practical and reliable service, in the heart of the Blue Valley.

Mountain bike rental, VTC, electric bikes, electric scooters TT (14 years min), children’s bikes, trailers, saddlebags and balance bikes at the Blue Valley. Browse the banks of the Rhône or the ViaRhôna with equipment maintained and suitable for the whole family.At the Espace Bike, enjoy a wide selection of bikes suitable for all ages and levels: mountain bikes, VTC, e-VTC, children’s bikes, balance bikes and child trailers. Our equipment, revised and maintained by our mechanics, allows you to enjoy the trails of the Blue Valley or along the ViaRhôna, located just a few meters. Whether you are with family, friends or as a couple, explore the region in complete freedom thanks to a fleet of comfortable bikes, reliable and accessible to all. Espace Bike also offers electric all-terrain scooters for rent, an unusual means of transport to enjoy the charm of the landscapes in complete tranquility and effortlessly. Ideal for families with children from 14 years and 1m40 minimum. The helmet is provided in the rental. It is of course possible to bring your own equipment. Before departure, possible loan of a hand pump, locks, cards and yellow vests. And for even more fun, you can rent pedal karts. From mini-karts to 4-seater karts, come and enjoy the Base de Loisirs de la Vallée Bleue with family or friends. Something to have fun from 4 years old!

Au départ de la vallée Bleue, reliez les rives coté Isère et Ain par les ponts de Sault-Brénaz et Briord. A votre guise, évoluez sur piste cyclable ou chemin sur digue en bord de fleuve.Cet itinéraire fait partie d'un ensemble de circuits de la base VTT FFCT de la base de loisirs de la Vallée Bleue.