Attractions and Places To See around Anse - Top 20

Anse offers a rich history, notably with the 13th-century Château des Tours, which houses a 2nd-century Gallo-Roman mosaic floor and preserved medieval features. You can also see remnants of the original Gallo-Roman Ramparts and the Castrum Tower. The 12th-century Chapel of St. Cyprien, one of France's oldest churches, features frescoes and hosts cultural events. Don't miss the Medieval Old Town with its 15th and 16th-century houses and communal bread oven, showcasing the distinctive 'Pierres Dorées' architecture.

Yes, several charming villages are easily accessible from Anse. Just 11 km away, Oingt is classified as one of France's 'most beautiful villages,' known for its golden stone architecture and superb vineyard views. Charnay Village and Castle also features classic medieval golden stone architecture. Other quiet villages in the Beaujolais wine region include Trevoux (4 km), Theize (7 km), and Bagnols (8 km).

Nature lovers can enjoy the scenic beauty of the region. The Roseraie Julien-Renoard Park and Messimieux Park offer pleasant spaces for relaxation. You can also explore hiking trails along the banks of the Azergues and Saône rivers. For a unique natural monument and viewpoint, visit Le Saule d'Oingt, a crossroads for many cycling and hiking routes in the Beaujolais region, known for its distinctive willow tree.

Families can enjoy a visit to Aquazergues Swimming Pool for recreation. A small tourist train connects the town center to Bordelan Lake, offering a 30-minute round trip through the countryside. This tourist railway is a replica of SNCF vehicles and provides a fun experience for all ages. For more information on the tourist railway, you can visit auvergnerhonealpes-tourisme.com.

Absolutely! The area around Anse is excellent for outdoor activities. You'll find numerous trails for hiking and cycling, especially around the 'Pays des Pierres Dorées' and the Beaujolais vineyards. For hiking, consider routes like the 'Hiking loop from Saint-Bernard' or the 'View over the Beaujolais Vert loop from Pommiers.' Cyclists can explore routes such as 'Colombier Lake – Colombier Pond loop from Anse' or 'Estacade de Trévoux – Trévoux Footbridge loop from Anse.' You can find detailed routes and guides for hiking, cycling, and mountain biking around Anse.

Anse is situated at the gateway to the Beaujolais wine region, making it an ideal base for wine enthusiasts. The area is characterized by rolling vineyards and charming villages built with the distinctive 'golden stone.' A visit to local vineyards for wine tasting is highly recommended. Many cycling and hiking routes also traverse the vineyards, offering scenic views and opportunities to explore the winemaking landscape.

Yes, the region offers picturesque river views, particularly along the Saône. The village of Beauregard provides beautiful views of the Saône, especially from its old bridge, which is open to pedestrians and cyclists. Further south, the Neuville-sur-Saône Bridge, built in 1934, is a unique example of a concrete bowstring bridge with historical significance, having been restored after wartime damage.

The 'Pierres Dorées' (Golden Stone) area refers to the distinctive golden-hued stone used in the architecture of many villages and buildings in the Beaujolais region, including Anse. You can see this beautiful stone in the historic core of Anse, in villages like Oingt and Charnay Village, and throughout the surrounding countryside. It gives the area a warm, unique character.

For a relaxed experience, you can visit the Roseraie Julien-Renoard Park and Messimieux Park within Anse, which are perfect for leisurely strolls. Just 3 km from Anse, the Jardins du Château de Saint-Bernard offer a remarkable garden experience, ideal for those looking for beautiful landscapes and tranquility.

The region around Anse is pleasant to visit throughout the warmer months, generally from spring to early autumn (April to October). During this time, the weather is favorable for exploring historical sites, enjoying outdoor activities like hiking and cycling, and experiencing the Beaujolais wine region. The vineyards are particularly beautiful in late summer and early autumn during harvest season.

Anse hosts a regular Friday Market every Friday morning, where you can find local produce and goods. Additionally, the Chapel of St. Cyprien, a historic 12th-century chapel, serves as a venue for art exhibitions and cultural events, offering opportunities to experience local arts and culture.