Castles & forts

Voltaire's château The ultimate refuge for a free spirit

At the gateway to Switzerland, the Château de Voltaire is much more than a residence: it’s the symbol of a philosopher in search of freedom. Nicknamed the “Innkeeper of Europe”, Voltaire welcomed the most brilliant minds of his time here, making it a veritable crossroads of Enlightenment ideas. He spent the last twenty years of his life here, writing, debating and shaping his legacy. Today, behind its elegant walls, we discover his study, 18th-century salons and a park where his ideas still resonate. A place steeped in history, where thought continues to inspire.

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Fort l'Écluse Ain mountain sentinel

Erected above the Rhone gorge 35 minutes from Geneva, Fort l’Écluse is a masterpiece of military architecture and one of the last mountain forts in France… A strategic site over the centuries, it has been the focus of numerous military conflicts. Between its stone walls, you can now discover fortified galleries, mysterious underground passages and a breathtaking panoramic view of the Rhône River. An unmissable site for heritage and thrill-seekers alike!

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Fléchères castle A vision of Italy just 30 km from Lyon!

It has stood the test of time, passing from the hands of the Counts of Savoy to those of architect Tony Ferret in the early XXᵉ century, who undertook its reconstruction. Today, this renovated château houses a museum retracing its rich past, offering visitors ten exhibition rooms, a store and a dining area. Families can also enjoy fun activities, such as ball-throwing with a medieval trebuchet, for a total immersion in the age of knights.

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And what if the adventure continued?

Castles, picturesque villages, exceptional natural sites… The Ain region is bursting with treasures to explore, whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple or as a family. Looking for must-see discoveries or experiences to share with the kids? Let us inspire you!

Must-see sites in Ain

As a family: the top activities to do with your children!

Allymes castle Watchtower and sentry walk...

With its architecture, it could have inspired several game designers… Do you remember the fortified castles of your childhood? With its seven centuries of experience, the Château des Allymes tells fascinating tales of internecine battles between Dauphiné and Savoie. A quiet force that seems to watch over the Plaine de l’Ain, like an immutable landmark.

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©Chateau Des Allymes Aerial view Autumn|Thierry Deroubaix

Treffort Castle 800 years of history in the heart of Revermont

It has stood the test of time, passing from the hands of the Counts of Savoy to those of architect Tony Ferret at the beginning of the XXᵉ century… Today, this renovated château houses a museum retracing its rich past and offers visitors ten exhibition rooms, a store and a restaurant area. Families can also enjoy fun activities, such as ball-throwing with a medieval trebuchet, for a total immersion in the age of knights.

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Trévoux castle On the banks of the Saône

Perched high above Trévoux, the Château Fort de Trévoux is an imposing example of medieval architecture. Today’s remains, notably the keep and corner towers, bear witness to Trévoux’s strategic importance over the centuries. A must for heritage and medieval history enthusiasts.