Things to do in Ain: an unusual nature getaway at the gateway to the Jura
Head to the Ain, in the southern Jura Mountains. The TGV station at Bellegarde-sur-Valserine drops you right at the valley’s doorstep. From there, a bus takes you straight into Terre Valserhône—and you’re all set for a sporty and unusual weekend (car-free).
Between the Valserine River (the first in France to earn the “Wild River” label), the breathtaking panoramas of Giron, the giant dinosaur trackway at Dinoplagne®, and the majestic silhouette of Fort l’Écluse, each stop immerses you in a different world. At night, you can even sleep under the stars in the Domes of Géorennes—a unique night in the heart of nature.
In this article, we share our top recommendations for a few days in the Ain: hiking at the Pertes de la Valserine, mountain biking, waterfalls, historical sites, unusual stays, and local flavors. Let’s go!
The Valserine: Wild River & Spectacular Landscapes
Labeled Wild River, the Valserine is a natural treasure to explore. A must-see? The Pertes de la Valserine: an impressive chasm where the river disappears into the rock before resurfacing further on, after winding through limestone canyons. A fun and spectacular experience, perfect for a family hike along the riverbanks.
The Pertes de la Valserine and their giant potholes - © Bestjobers Elisa & Max / BFC Tourisme
The Giant’s Kettles & Champfromier Waterfall
Also in the valley, the river has carved out curious Giant’s Kettles—natural basins shaped by erosion. Further along, the cascade de Champfromier offers a refreshing break in a bucolic setting, ideal in summer.
The magnificent Champfromier waterfall - ©Benjamin Martinie
Giron: Outdoor Sports Paradise
Perched at 1,000 meters, Giron is the highest village in the Ain. A Nordic ski resort in winter, it transforms into a true outdoor hub in summer.
On the program:
- E-mountain biking: follow the Tour des Belvédères route and enjoy stunning views from Roche Fauconnière (a listed Sensitive Natural Area).
- Bike park thrills: forest downhill tracks with beginner areas and jumps await adrenaline seekers.
Mountain bike ride in Giron - © Mizenboite Production / BFC Tourisme
A Journey Back in Time at Dinoplagne®
Just a few kilometers away, step back 150 million years at Dinoplagne®. Here you’ll find the longest dinosaur trackway in the world, left by a titanosaur! The site, also a Sensitive Natural Area, features an interpretation trail combining wildlife, flora, and paleontology. A timeless adventure for families and friends.
Dinoplagne, following in the footsteps of dinosaurs in Haut-Bugay - © Géraldine Blanchon / OT Terre Valserine / BFC Tourisme
Fort l’Écluse & Crêt de la Goutte: History & Panoramas
Built into the mountainside along the Jura route, Fort l’Écluse offers a unique viewpoint over the Rhône and the Alps. Originally built to guard the Rhône gorge and control the border, this military fort spans centuries of history. Today, you can visit its galleries and monumental staircases before enjoying a spectacular panorama of the Rhône Valley, Lake Geneva, and the first Alpine peaks. A magical meeting of culture and nature.
Fort l’Écluse - © Mizenboite Production / BFC Tourisme
Higher up, the Crêt de la Goutte invites you to another kind of ascent. This hike leads to one of the Ain’s most emblematic peaks. At the summit, the reward is total: a 360° view over the Jura ridges, the Valserine Valley, Lake Geneva, and on clear days, even Mont Blanc.
Together, the fortress and the belvedere embody the very best of the Ain: powerful landscapes and rich heritage.
Where to Stay?
To extend the adventure, spend a night in the Domes of Géorennes. Nestled in nature, these spherical wooden-and-canvas lodges combine comfort with escape. From your bed, gaze at treetops and starry skies through large picture windows that open onto the outdoors. The perfect atmosphere to relax after a day exploring the Valserine Valley or Giron’s ridges.
The little extra? Each dome is equipped for a cozy stay, with a private terrace and a warm ambiance. The perfect address for a unique Jura nature experience—but with real comfort.
From wild rivers and waterfalls to dinosaur tracks, forts, and breathtaking viewpoints, the Ain offers a compact adventure playground just an hour from Lyon—no car required.
This article was produced in partnership with Montagnes du Jura.
Issue du monde de la communication et des médias, Sophie est Responsable éditoriale chez HOURRAIL ! depuis août 2024. Elle est notamment derrière le contenu éditorial du site ainsi que La Locomissive (de l'inspiration voyage bas carbone et des bons plans, un jeudi sur deux, gratuitement dans ta boîte mail !).
Convaincue que les changements d’habitude passent par la transformation de nos imaginaires, elle s’attache à montrer qu’il est possible de voyager autrement, de manière plus consciente, plus lente et plus joyeuse. Son objectif : rendre le slow travel accessible à toutes et tous, à travers des astuces, des décryptages et surtout, de nouveaux récits.
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