Hiking in the Ain: the spring selection

Spring in the Ain means nature wakes up and your legs get moving. Trails scented with narcissus, panoramic views of the River Ain, meandering gorges, the spectacle of a waterfall in the undergrowth… Ready to discover the seasonal selection?

Walks & hikes for a contemplative spring!

When winter retreats, the Ain wakes up. The Ain gorges, sculpted by time, rediscover the murmur of the river. The Plateau de Retord is adorned with wild flowers, like a promise of renewal. At La Faucille, the sea of clouds recedes to reveal a panoramic view of Mont Blanc. A light melody settles in the air, guiding hikers’ steps towards a waterfall… The Ain reveals itself at its most beautiful, offering hiking opportunities that amaze outdoor enthusiasts.

la Ronde des Plans 10.4 km - 2h

Between valleys and forests, the Ronde des Plans reveals itself in stages. First come the daffodils, bursting with yellow under the still-fresh sky. Then come the daffodils, white sheets carpeting the valleys. And in the background, the majestic Mont Blanc, which rises to the horizon as soon as the trail gets higher. A loop that smells of renewal, between wild flowers and grandiose panoramas.

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Balvay castle, view of the Ain river 11.9 km - 4h30

From the ruins of the Château de Balvay, the landscape opens up like a tableau vivant. The meandering Ain River draws perfect curves below, while on a clear day, your gaze drifts westwards to the Monts du Mâconnais, passing through the Revermont and Bresse regions. A breathtaking panorama of history and nature.

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Tour du Val de Buenc - Gorges de l'Ain 17.2 km - 7h

Suspended between the Suran valley and the Gorges de l’Ain, the Val de Buenc reveals a typically Jura setting. Limestone rocks, vertiginous lookouts, deep forests and sheer cliffs make up the landscape. Dinosaur footprints etched into the rock are a reminder that this land has a history stretching back thousands of years. A hike on the heights of the Ain, between geology and remarkable panoramas.

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©Tour du Val de Buenc - Gorges de l'Ain|Pierre Jayet/ Bourg-en-Bresse Destinations

Want to extend your adventure?

Discover our top hikes in the Ain for even more breathtaking panoramas, or get inspired by our ideas for a successful spring getaway. The Ain has plenty to surprise you!

©Charmines jumps|M. Chatelain/ Haut-Bugey Tourisme

Spring getaways, fresh air and pure nature!

Top 10 hikes not to be missed

La Faucille - Les Deux Montronds 7.7 km - 3h

From the Col de la Faucille, this loop takes you to the ridges for one of the most spectacular panoramas of the massif. The 360° view takes in Lake Geneva, the Pays de Gex, the Hautes Combes… and in the background, the majestic Alps with Mont Blanc in the spotlight. The trail passes through forests, flower-filled mountain pastures and breathtaking vistas, in a rich, unspoilt natural setting. An accessible hike, to be enjoyed without a dog (for the peace and quiet of the patous), but with eyes wide open.

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The Clairefontaine waterfall 5.4 km - 2h

From Virieu-le-Grand, the path follows the Arène river, winding through the historic center before entering the forest. At the end of the path, the Clairefontaine waterfall emerges with a soothing crash: a continuous stream, even in dry weather, rushing along the rock in an invigorating coolness.

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Did you know? The Ain is also home to the Bugey waterfalls

The Bugey waterfalls owe their existence to the limestone relief typical of the Jura massif. Water seeps through the rock, carving out caves and fissures before emerging in spectacular cascades. Glandieu, Clairefontaine, Charabotte, … Each offers a unique setting, between steep walls and lush vegetation.

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