Discover the gems of Frontenas, Rhône, Rhône-Alpes

The GR® de Pays Beaujolais-Bugey par la Dombes links the hills of the Lyonnais to the south of Bugey. It winds its way through the vineyards of Beaujolais, along the towpath of the Saône and through the Dombes region of lakes. The GR® de Pays Beaujolais-Bugey par la Dombes starts from the GR®76 near the village of Sainte-Paule (Rhône) and crosses several lines of hills before joining the Saône. It crosses the Saône to enter the Ain between Anse and St-Bernard. From here, it follows the towpath to Parcieux. It then crosses the Dombes plateau and its ponds. It crosses the Ain at the Chazey bridge, and after skirting the Rhône, climbs up to join the GR®59 in the Bugey mountains.

The Rhône Department owns several forests on its territory, including that of La Cantinière. It extends over a massif located south of Beaujolais and is also classified as a sensitive natural area. Many hiking trails criss-cross it: the GR®P du Tour des Pierres Dorées, the GR®76 and short hiking trails taken from map guides. Fun workshops made of wood. The visitor is invited to soak up the atmosphere of the forest while contemplating the natural heritage it conceals.

As you walk along the footpaths of Saint-Etienne-la-Varenne, discover 6 hiking paths that will enable you to walk all the way round the village (they last from 45 minutes to 3 ½ hours).

25Km GPS-guided off-road electric scooter ride through the heart of the Beaujolais region, with a gourmet break halfway through, the famous "Mâchon Beaujolais". Meet in the parking lot of the Salle d'Animation Rurale in Frontenas, get to grips with the machines, then set off on a guided GPS ride lasting around 1 hour. At the halfway point, I'll be waiting for you to take a relaxing, convivial and gourmet break, accompanied by the famous "Mâchon Beaujolais", made up of local charcuterie, farmhouse cheeses, Beaujolais wine and sweets. At the end of this stop, you'll continue your tour for about 1 hour.

Also known as the "the pearl of golden stoned villages" Oingt is the only village in the department to have been added to the list of "most beautiful villages in France".

La Tourette convent was designed by Le Corbusier at the end of the 1950s. It is now a historical monument occupied by a community of some ten Dominican monks devoted to coordinating visits and encouraging onsite meetings and exchanges.

The presence of a river toll and the town's geopolitical location meant a stone fortress had to be built in the late 13th century. The Saône marked the border between the French Kingdom (right bank) and the Holy Roman Empire (left bank). Trévoux was an important tolled crossing point on the Empire's land. Aside from stunning views of the Saône, Dombes plateau and Beaujolais, you can gaze at an imposing building listed as a Monument Historique in 1913 and seen as one of the Ain region's top sites.

Near a former copper and pyrite mine, the museum has reconstructed galleries and mining sites and presents the history of the mine from 1800 to 1972, as well as an exhibition of equipment, archives and minerals.

You'll be charmed by the authentic character of this restaurant, its wooded grounds and the 18th-century château. The Chef is ambitious and talented, and successfully blends tradition and fantastic quality dishes, so you're sure to enjoy an unforgettable experience. In lush-green grounds at the heart of the Beaujolais Villages. Some background: the estate was built in the late 18th century by the Barons of Vauxonne and native of Lyon, Albin Fortuné Pierre Saint Rousset de Vauxonne lived here between 1838 and 1851. For a century the Château des Loges was privately owned. In 1960, the Cave Beaujolais de Perréon was acquired by this Beaujolais property and a winemaking cooperative was created on the estate. The wine-tasting cellar was founded in 1962. In 1989, the château was renovated. Two years of hard work resulted in the estate as we can see it today. In 1995, the Lagarde family took over the estate's hotel business. The Château des Loges was completely renovated and transformed into 10 guestrooms (comfort, grand comfort and one family suite) decorated in an old-fashioned way and each bearing the name of a Beaujolais wine. The accommodation also boasts outdoor terrace areas, French-style garden, pool hall and air-conditioned restaurant for an elegant, fine-dining experience (Maître Restaurateur title). The chef uses local products to concoct traditional dishes that everyone is guaranteed to enjoy. All our different areas are equipped with heating, air-conditioning and are fully equipped in general. Any specific equipment is available to hire. There is a wide range of activities on offer while you're staying here.

Gaze at Saint-Sixte Basilica where St. John Vianney is laid to rest. The building is listed as a Monument Historique and was built by Pierre-Marie Bossan who also built Lyon's Fourvière Basilica. Its sea green domes are typical of Neo-Byzantine style. 350,000 pilgrims from around the world stop in the village of Ars every year for a spiritual or tourist break. Pope John Paul II visited in October 1986. The basilica is built on the site of a 12th century Roman church and was expanded in 1862. The building's originality, height and wonderful painted interior will take your breath away. Photo credits inside the dome of the basilica: ©Sanctuary of Ars Photo credits Basilica : © Mairie d'Ars

Through two exhibition halls, you're invited to travel trough the universe of an atypical: Antoine Brun offers us his world view in the middle of the 19th century, with hundreds buildings models. Workshops for children from 4 years old.

Val de Saône: conservation area national heritage. At the rate of the river of the Saône, mix there easily flooded wet meadows, lônes and islands, puddles and alluvial afforestations. Numerous little common botanical and animal species find refuge there.

Also known as the "the pearl of golden stoned villages" Oingt is the only village in the department to have been added to the list of "most beautiful villages in France".

This golden stone castle situated in the heart of the vineyard was built at the end of the 13th century. A very elegant Renaissance building boasting of seven towers dating from the 14th and 17th centuries. It is classified as a historical monument. Guided tours only. You can visit the catlle only during the guided tours. The origins of this vast stately home seem to date back to the 13th century. The castle has a Renaissance wing and some modern fortifications. The building has belonged successively to various families who have been keen to maintain it in good condition while maintaining its style. This has produced a complex yet harmonious arrangement of pavilions, courtyards and terraces surmounted by six towers. Even though the imposing donjon, the ancient drawbridge and the machiolations seem a bit medieval, they blend seamlessly into the somewhat Renaissance appearance of this picturesque and opulent citadel, which has very little to do with warfare.

Nestling in the valley, this village grew within the shelter of the walls of its listed château. The village only acquired its independence some twenty years ago, having formerly been dependent on Ville-sur-Jarnioux.

Square gilded stone tower topped by a mechanism comprising 3 moving arms. Complete restoration in 2022. The long-distance aerial communication system invented by Chappe operated from 1794 to 1854. The telegraph network consists of 5,000 km of lines. The Chappe Telegraph (fully restored in 2022) is a 4-metre square, 6-metre high golden stone building, topped by a mechanism consisting of 3 moving arms used to form and transmit coded aerial signals. This tower, the 55th station out of 58 on the Paris-Lyon line, was commissioned in 1805 and extended as far as Venice. This formidable means of communication, invented by Claude Chappe in 1793, ceased to operate in 1854. The French telegraph network was 5,000 km long, with 535 stations serving 29 towns. Interpretation and information panels outside explain how the tower and the telegraph network worked.

This was once a yellow limestone extraction site characteristic of the southern Beaujolais. It supplied the region in construction material for centuries. As the only visitable quarry in the Rhône area, it is also a natural area of ecological interest.

In the 10th century, the Pommiers site on the eastern and western slopes of the last hill in the Beaujolais area was already known to be one of the loveliest in the region.

Medieval castle built by Renaud de Forez, comprising a cylindrical keep, a semi-circular tower and a central rectangular building. Inside: Gallo-Roman mosaics, small archaeological museum... Château des Tours (13th century). Small archaeological museum. Built in rubble and country limestone. The castle comprises a cylindrical donjon (1213) to the south, a semicircular tower to the north (1217-1218) having maintained its 13th century roof and a central rectangular main building (1218). 15th century spiral staircase. The complex assembly of pieces of oak wood used for the defence of the castle has been preserved. This vestige is of exceptional interest considering that it is the oldest in france (dating using dendrochronology). A late 2nd century mosaic classified as a "Historic Monument" that was discovered in 1843 on the site of the Grange du Bief is exhibited at the Château. This mosaic is incomplete (1/8) (71.10m X 3.20m) would have measured 16m X 11m. It also contains a fragment of Claude's Borne Milliaire, discovered along a country lane. This terminal, dated 43 A.D., confirms that Anse was a fortified point on the great Roman road from Lyon heading north. The Association Arts Civilisations Patrimoine offers tours of the Château des Tours on the second and fourth Saturdays of the month, from March to mid-November. It also offers guided tours of Old Anse on the third Saturday of the month, from March to mid-November.

This 120 ha water body located in a 70 ha natural area is a former gravel pit redeveloped for bathing, leisure and fishing. Summer: aquapark (payable access), walking path, fitness path,... . Served by the tourist train. There's a supervised beach, a footpath around the lake, children's games, a fitness trail and a dance hall. First-aid post, wooden tables, sanitary facilities for men and women and for people with reduced mobility. Snack bar. The site is served by the Chemin de Fer Touristique de Anse. Fishing lake, 2nd category, 4 rods. The beach is supervised from 1pm to 7pm, but swimming is strictly prohibited and dangerous outside the authorised and supervised area (unstabilised banks and seabed). The access gates are open from 11.30am to 8pm. After 8pm, as the barriers are closed, cars may not leave the site until 11.30am the following day. Don't forget the time!

The Château de Saint Bernard is located a short distance from Trévoux. This beautifully preserved structure has military architectural features from the 13th to the 18th centuries and is surrounded by its own remarkable gardens. The Château de Saint Bernard dates originally from the year 1250 and has a very colourful history and has been a national monument since 1997. The château has some fantastic views over the River Saône and its well maintained gardens. It is also well known for having been the one time home of artist and painter Suzanne Valadon and her son Maurice Utrillo who was also a renowned painter. The Château de Saint Bernard is open on weekdays during July and August and there guided visits available in French only.

You'll be charmed by the authentic character of this restaurant, its wooded grounds and the 18th-century château. The Chef is ambitious and talented, and successfully blends tradition and fantastic quality dishes, so you're sure to enjoy an unforgettable experience. In lush-green grounds at the heart of the Beaujolais Villages. Some background: the estate was built in the late 18th century by the Barons of Vauxonne and native of Lyon, Albin Fortuné Pierre Saint Rousset de Vauxonne lived here between 1838 and 1851. For a century the Château des Loges was privately owned. In 1960, the Cave Beaujolais de Perréon was acquired by this Beaujolais property and a winemaking cooperative was created on the estate. The wine-tasting cellar was founded in 1962. In 1989, the château was renovated. Two years of hard work resulted in the estate as we can see it today. In 1995, the Lagarde family took over the estate's hotel business. The Château des Loges was completely renovated and transformed into 10 guestrooms (comfort, grand comfort and one family suite) decorated in an old-fashioned way and each bearing the name of a Beaujolais wine. The accommodation also boasts outdoor terrace areas, French-style garden, pool hall and air-conditioned restaurant for an elegant, fine-dining experience (Maître Restaurateur title). The chef uses local products to concoct traditional dishes that everyone is guaranteed to enjoy. All our different areas are equipped with heating, air-conditioning and are fully equipped in general. Any specific equipment is available to hire. There is a wide range of activities on offer while you're staying here.

Semi-gourmet restaurant serving seasonal dishes.

A 6-lane bowling alley, 3 of which have been specially adapted to children. It also has a games area with billiards and table football as well as a giant screen showing all sporting events and a snack bar in case you're feeling peckish.

Geraldine and Ludovic are happy to welcome you to the green and verdoyant countryside of the Montagnes du Matin - Guestrooms on site.

L'Auberge du Pla is a solidarity restaurant created by the humanitarian association "EquiLibre Solidarité". It welcomes you in the exceptional location of an authentic Monts du Lyonnais farm.

Beaujolais-style bistro cuisine. Set menus and daily specials are served every lunchtime during the week. Regional cuisine made using fresh products. The concept behind the cuisine at Le Retinton: A warm and inviting atmosphere where simplicity is key, for an easy-going, enjoyable experience. Beaujolais-style bistro cuisine, all homemade using fresh products. The chef is guided by the seasons, and flavour and quality are paramount. The perfect place for lunch with friends, a meal with coworkers, a girly night out or romantic evening. The restaurant can welcome groups and private functions.

Fully renovated family restaurant, offering a sophisticated cuisine with gastronomic specialties in the evening. Wine bar in the evening.

The Château des Loges, an 18th century mansion, will welcome you in the heart of the Beaujolais vineyard for a gourmet stopover at the restaurant or a stay at the hotel in the middle of the vineyards. A refined and warm setting in peaceful wine villages. Set in a theater of greenery in the heart of the Beaujolais villages, the Château des Loges welcomes you for moments of relaxation and gourmet pleasure. An 18th-century manor house, fully renovated and equipped, the Château des Loges offers 10 3-star rooms (comfort, grand comfort and a family room) decorated in the traditional style, each bearing the name of a Beaujolais cru, its terraces, its French garden, its billiard room and its air-conditioned restaurant with rich gourmet cuisine (maitre Restaurateur). The chef's cuisine uses traditional local produce to delight the taste buds of all gourmets. All our rooms are heated, air-conditioned and fully equipped. All specific equipment for hire A wide range of activities are available to enhance your stay.

Service area for motorhome owners located in the centre of the village, you can change your oil, fill up with water and recharge your batteries.

Located in à lush and tranquil setting, the Bois de la Dame campground has everything to charm you. You'll appreciate its proximity to the eponymous pond and the historic centre of Ars. Caravans, static caravans, and tent bungalows available for rent. Motor homes welcome. Open - air market every Friday morning. Starting point for hiking trails. Ars-sur-Formans is worth a visit as it's world famous and the Ain region's top tourist destination! The pilgrimage site was St. John Vianney's home village. Nestled between Beaujolais (wine region) and La Dombes' many lakes near Pérouges, Lyon (30km) and Villars-les-Dombes and its bird sanctuary (16km), you'll be spoilt for choice when it comes to trips with family and friends! The bungalow tents have a kitchen (crockery provided), gas hobs, fridge, coffee machine, microwave, crockery for 6 guests and free Wi-Fi. On-site there's a tennis court, skate park, playground, footpaths and a fishing lake... Nearby: newsagents, bakery, butcher, groceries and restaurants in the village centre 200m away, pool 5km away, horse riding 2km away... Market on Friday morning. Start point for hiking trails Outdoor kitchen available on request. Motorhomes: free drainage if you spend one night on the campsite. Bookings available October-March please email: mairie.ars-sur-formans@wanadoo.fr

At the foot of Mont Brouilly, in the heart of the vineyards and surrounded by greenery, stands a charming hotel with 28 comfortable rooms. A charming stopover with everything you could wish for. The recipe for happiness: two restaurant rooms, a beautiful terrace, ample private parking, a vast shady park with children's games, bowls, outdoor table tennis, a large swimming pool reserved for hotel guests, not to mention a fully equipped seminar room.

The cottage is located in the heart of the village, starting point for many hikes that will take you to the Celtic site of La Truche or the Matagrin Tower. It is possible to rent a room with kitchen, dishes and 15 beds. 4 bedrooms with possibility of 10 beds. These rooms can be rented individually for hikers or workmen.

The Belleville Hotel is ideally located near to exit n°30 of the A6 motorway: 30 minutes from Lyon city centre and just 5 minutes from Villefranche sur Saône. The Belleville Hotel is ideally located near to exit n°30 of the A6 motorway: 30 minutes from Lyon city centre and just 5 minutes from Villefranche sur Saône. The hotel is open seven days a week; it is very easy to get to and has a free car-park.. We are sure you will enjoy your stopover in the Beaujolais region, whether you are travelling through on business, here for the weekend or passing through as a family on your way to Lyon or the South of France. The hotel has 49 spacious rooms including a number of family and luxury rooms, it is fully air conditioned and there is free WiFi everywhere. Our staff will make every effort to guarantee you a warm welcome and meet your every need, particularly as regards the organisation of your business seminars and group visits (associations, tours, etc.). We also have 2 specially adapted rooms for the disabled on the ground floor with flush-floor level showers.

Located at the gates of the Beaujolais region, the recently built Hotel Charme offers 40 ground floor rooms in a garden, all fitted with shower and toilet, telephone, television. Delicious traditional food. Free Wi-Fi.

Open since July 2020, the motorhome break with a magnificent open view of the Violaysien landscape, quiet and green. Service terminal and drainage area. Self-service tourist documentation. 20 Electrified locations, 1 km from the town.