Wild rivers in the Ain
La Pernaz, a wild river
The Arvière, a wild river
Vézeronce, wild river
Le Pain de Sucre in SurjouxThese rivers, some of the most unspoilt in the world, offer an ideal setting for discovering exceptional biodiversity and remarkable landscapes. The Valserine, the first river to be awarded this prestigious label, perfectly embodies the natural wealth of the Ain. Between grandiose landscapes and rare biodiversity, plunge into the world of these natural gems that are the pride of our region.
The Valserine is an open-access nature lesson. The first river in France to be awarded the “Rivière Sauvage” label, it slaloms between forests and cliffs, carving spectacular gorges and shaping geological masterpieces: waterfalls, Devil’s Bridge, Giant’s Potholes sculpted by time. Here, every step along the trail reveals a new setting, every detour tells a story. For hikers, it’s the assurance of total immersion, far from the crowds, in the heart of a living heritage.
Les,Pertes,De,La,Valserine
Cascade de la Dorche, wild river
Hand plunging into river waterFor 12 km, it winds down the Plateau de Retord, carving steep gorges and feeding a rare biodiversity: fario trout, rare white-clawed crayfish and yellow-bellied sounder. Classified as a sensitive natural area, it can be explored via a 7 km interpretation trail leading to the waterfall of the same name. Here, water reigns supreme, sculpting the rock and nurturing unspoilt nature, far from the noise of the world.
A river that charms at every turn. Its water dances between limestone cliffs, caresses the moss of the undergrowth and reveals, in the hollow of a confidential path, the majestic Pain de Sucre waterfall, a vertiginous and astonishing waterfall, with its natural pool of clear water.
Vézeronce, wild river
Vézeronce,wild river
Le Pain de Sucre in SurjouxDiscover hidden waterfalls and lakes perfect for a refreshing break!
Nestled in the heart of the Bugey region, the Arvière reveals to hikers remarkable geological sites such as the Groin spring, an impressive intermittent resurgence, and the Pain de Sucre, a spectacular waterfall. Fishing enthusiasts will also find suitable areas downstream from the river. An invitation to discover varied landscapes and an exceptional natural heritage.
The Arvière, a wild river
La Pernaz, a wild river
The Arvière, a wild river
La Pernaz, a wild riverThe Pernaz flows through a karst landscape where each waterfall shapes basins and tufa formations of rare fragility. A living ecosystem where rock and water have been in dialogue for millennia. It’s also a playground for canyoning enthusiasts, with waterfalls and steep passages. For hikers, the Luizet waterfall, a 100-metre wall of water that commands silence and admiration, is the place to be.
Protecting nature, sensitive natural areasRamsar is an international label that distinguishes wetlands of global importance for their biodiversity and ecological role. Among them:
