Attractions and Places To See around Saint-Étienne-Du-Bois - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Saint-Étienne-Du-Bois are found in the Ain department, a region characterized by its blend of historical sites and natural landscapes. The area features the Sevron river and the Etang de But, a sensitive natural area with diverse flora and fauna. Historical landmarks include the Église Saint-Étienne and the ruins of ancient castles. Visitors can explore various walking and hiking trails in the surrounding woods and discover cultural monuments.
Best attractions and places to see…
Last updated: July 2, 2026
Ruins of Jasseron Castle
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Brou Abbey in Bourg-en-Bresse
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Chartreuse de Sélignac
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Moulin des Vernes
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The Pine Barn
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A very beautiful monastery complex from the Middle Ages
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The Royal Abbey of Brou was built at the beginning of the Renaissance at the request of Margaret of Austria (1480-1530), daughter of the Emperor, Duchess of Savoy, and Regent of the Netherlands. The church was intended to forever commemorate her love for her late husband, Philibert the Fair. Philibert II of Savoy died in 1504 at the Château de Pont-d'Ain at the young age of just 24 from the effects of a cold he caught while hunting.
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A very nice campsite at the Plan d'eau de la Grange du Pin with adequate and clean restrooms and shady pitches. There's also a restaurant, a sports field, and a high ropes course.
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Using the power of moving water to drive a mill wheel is an ancient invention that dates back to pre-Christian times. Thanks to such a construction, human or animal muscle power could be easily replaced by a watercourse - natural or artificially created - in order to grind grain into corn, for example. There are essentially two different ways of driving watermills: Either the water simply hits the blades of the water wheel from below to set it in motion; or the water is guided above the wheel and falls onto the blades; this type of construction is more efficient due to natural gravity.
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Nestled at the bottom of a valley, on the side of the road which goes from Bourg en Bresse to Oyonnax, this building is only clearly revealed nearby, on the GR, which runs alongside the enclosure. Drainages cut the path in several places, to a greater or lesser extent depending on the rainfall, but are designed to be passable. Access is easy, provided you are properly shod and covered depending on the season.
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This cultural monument was voted "Favorite Monument of the French" in 2014 and is a real gem of High Gothic. This group of buildings, unique in Europe, was built at the beginning of the 16th century at the request of Margaret of Austria and includes a church and three monasteries. There is also an art museum here.
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Good startpoint for hikes. You can find maps near the campsite reception or in flyers format at campsite reception opening hours. There are several signs for beginning some walks :-) It's also a good startpoint for mountain bike.
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The former charterhouse of Val-Saint-Martin de Sélignac, which became the Saint-Bruno house in 2001, is a former Carthusian monastery, located in the valley of Sélignac (or Sélignat), in Simandre-sur-Suran in the department of Ain in France. It shelters a few lay people living according to the spirit of Saint Bruno, placed under the spiritual authority of the Reverend Father General of the Carthusian Order.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main historical attractions around Saint-Étienne-Du-Bois?
The region is rich in history. You can visit the magnificent Brou Abbey in Bourg-en-Bresse, a stunning example of High Gothic architecture and an art museum. Also, explore the impressive Ruins of Jasseron Castle, a 13th-century fortress that once dominated the Bresse plain. The former Carthusian monastery, Chartreuse de Sélignac, offers a glimpse into monastic life, and the Moulin des Vernes showcases an ancient watermill.
Are there any natural features or areas to explore near Saint-Étienne-Du-Bois?
Yes, Saint-Étienne-Du-Bois is surrounded by natural beauty. The Sevron river flows through the commune, and the Etang de But is a sensitive natural area known for its diverse flora and fauna, including rare dragonflies and toads. An interpretive trail allows visitors to explore this unique environment. The Plan d'eau du Châtelet is another natural water body, and the surrounding woods offer various walking and hiking trails.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do around Saint-Étienne-Du-Bois?
The area is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find numerous routes for cycling, mountain biking, and hiking. For specific trails, check out the guides for Cycling around Saint-Étienne-Du-Bois, MTB Trails around Saint-Étienne-Du-Bois, and Hiking around Saint-Étienne-Du-Bois. For an adventure experience, the Parcours Aventure de la Bresse offers a high ropes course.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the Saint-Étienne-Du-Bois area?
Absolutely! Families can enjoy the The Pine Barn, which is a campsite and activity hub featuring a high ropes course. The Parcours Aventure de la Bresse also provides an adventure park experience. Additionally, the Moulin des Vernes is a historical site that can be interesting for all ages, demonstrating the power of water.
Where can I find hiking trails near Saint-Étienne-Du-Bois?
There are many hiking opportunities in the area. You can find trails around the Etang de But and in the surrounding woods. Popular routes include the 'Lavoir de la Platte – Ancient Roman Way loop from Meillonnas' and the 'Ruins of Jasseron Castle loop from Jasseron'. For a comprehensive list, refer to the Hiking around Saint-Étienne-Du-Bois guide.
What is the best time of year to visit Saint-Étienne-Du-Bois for outdoor activities?
The spring and autumn months generally offer pleasant weather for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling, with milder temperatures and beautiful natural scenery. Summer is also popular, especially for water-based activities at the Plan d'eau du Châtelet or the Parc de Loisirs de Bouvent, though it can be warmer.
What cultural monuments can I visit in Saint-Étienne-Du-Bois itself?
Within the commune of Saint-Étienne-Du-Bois (Ain), you can visit the local Église Saint-Étienne, built in 1836, which is a prominent landmark. There's also an old train station, a war memorial, a Liberation commemorative monument, and the town hall (mairie) that reflect the local history.
Are there any leisure parks or recreational centers nearby?
Yes, in the nearby Bourg-en-Bresse, you'll find the Parc de Loisirs de Bouvent, a leisure park, and the Centre Nautique du Carre d'Eau, a nautical center, offering various recreational options. For indoor entertainment, there's Défi01 Live Escape Game and Bowling Bresse Loisirs.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Saint-Étienne-Du-Bois?
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of historical sites and natural landscapes. The Brou Abbey is often highlighted for its architectural beauty and rich history. The The Pine Barn is popular as a starting point for hikes and for its family-friendly amenities like the high ropes course. The historical significance of sites like the Ruins of Jasseron Castle also receives high praise.
Can I go cycling around Saint-Étienne-Du-Bois?
Yes, the area offers several cycling routes for various skill levels. You can find options like 'The Pine Barn loop from Cuisiat' or 'Singletrail loop from Saint-Étienne-du-Bois'. For more detailed routes and information, consult the Cycling around Saint-Étienne-Du-Bois guide.
Are there any specific places for mountain biking near Saint-Étienne-Du-Bois?
Mountain biking is a popular activity here, with trails such as the 'Mont Myon – Refuge du Mont Myon loop from Cuisiat' and 'Col de France – Singletrail loop from Meillonnas'. These routes offer diverse terrain for mountain bikers. Explore more options in the MTB Trails around Saint-Étienne-Du-Bois guide.
Most popular routes around Saint-Étienne-Du-Bois
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