Attractions and places to see around Hières-Sur-Amby include a mix of historical sites, cultural landmarks, and natural features. Located in northern Isère, the area is characterized by its archaeological heritage, such as the Larina site, and protected natural spaces like the Larina Plateau and the peat bog. The region also features the Rhône river and various hiking trails, offering diverse exploration opportunities.
Last updated: July 2, 2026
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In January 1847, an investigation was opened into projects towards Geneva, Besançon, Dôle-Châlons. In 1850, the Lyon Chamber of Commerce and Industry adopted the project for a rail link from Lyon to Chambéry via Saint Genis sur Guiers. Applications to operate this line were rejected until 1877. The work lasted 4 years, financed in part by Belgian capital. The inauguration took place on October 9, 1881, and the first train ran on October 30. The line started from the Gare de l'Est (Avenue Félix Faure) and ended at Sablonnières. It had 16 stations and 3 stops over a distance of 72 Kms. Passenger traffic increased from 4 daily round trips in 1897 to 8 in 1935. A passenger took 40 minutes on the 6:35 AM train to travel from Lyon to Pont de Chéruy and 34 minutes to return to Lyon on the 7:23 PM train. Despite everything, the line was closed to passengers in December 1938, then reopened from September 1939 to December 31, 1947. VFD (Voie Ferrée du Dauphiné) coaches took over between Crémieu and Lyon; Freight traffic supplied the main industries (Grammont in Pont de Chéruy and Vicat in Bouvesse) as well as the various industrial zones. The network served 70 private sidings. At its peak in 1935, 1,000,000 tons transited through this line. The decision by the cement factories to no longer use the rail in 1978 was to deal it a "fatal" blow. In 1980, during its last year, 540,244 tons (including 150,130 of scrap metal) were still transported. In 2001, CoUrLy (Urban Community of Lyon) and the General Council of the Rhône adopted a decision to reactivate passenger traffic on part of the route of the Est line. The objective is to connect Lyon to Saint Exupéry airport.
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Beautiful little town, quite touristy, but worth the detour
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Cool during the heatwave while visiting the caves
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Information in German: https://www.balconsdudauphine-tourisme.com/de/equipement/les-grottes-de-la-balme/ Website (French): https://www.grotteslabalme.com/ Also closed on certain days, information in the calendar: https://www.grotteslabalme.com/organisation/les-horaires-calendrier/
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Although first mentioned in 1540, the Cingle fortified house was undoubtedly built in the second half of the 14th century by the Pèlerin family. Originally composed of a main tower and a wing back to the west, it perhaps originally included a curtain wall. During the 15th century, the south wing was extended towards the west, a main building comprising a lower room and an upper room was attached to the north of the main tower, while a turret occupied on the first floor by an oratory and on the second by a dovecote is built to the east, projecting. A wing including the kitchen on the ground floor is also built at right angles to the north of the courtyard. The farm itself retains some architectural elements dating from the 16th century. Source: Ministry of Culture
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The Bienassis fortified house, built by the Vallin family at the end of the 14th century, was organized around an enclosed courtyard and included a pavilion surrounded by watchtower turrets. The current building was completed in 1897 for Casimir Gournet, who wanted to give the old feudal residence the appearance of a medieval castle. Alphonse de Lamartine made several stays in Bienassis with his friend Nicolas Prosper Guichard, between 1804 and 1808. The castle, built of limestone rubble, consists of an L-shaped building covered with a long-pitched roof covered with mechanical tiles extended to the south by a high quadrangular tower with a porch in the work. The north wing has four levels of elevation: three cellars on the basement floor, a square floor and an attic floor. The tower rises on three levels: a ground floor with ribbed vaults and two square floors, the buildings are crowned with false machicolation. The corner turrets are covered with conical slate roofs. The stained glass windows of the ground floor living room are decorated with two bust-length women and two bust-length men in rondels. The coat of arms of the Joubert de Montlevon family can be found on one of the windows of the first living room on the ground floor. In the library, two shields with scrolling scroll motifs, a shield decorated with three female heads, a shield decorated with a passing griffin, and a shield decorated with two hammers with the initials C G for Casimir Gournet adorn the windows. Source: Châteaux de France
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The Chemin de fer de l'Est de Lyon (CFEL) is a former French secondary railway network with standard gauge located partly in the Rhône department and partly in the Isère department and which connected the Gare de Lyon-Est to Aoste-Saint-Genix via Crémieu, Saint-Hilaire de Brens (Turnoff for the Jallieu antenna) and Soleymieu-Sablonnière (Turnoff for the Montalieu antenna). After a gradual end of operation until December 2003, the area of the line between Lyon-Part-Dieu station and Meyzieu Z.I. was transformed to allow line T3 of the Lyon tramway to run there, and the Rhônexpress shuttle to Saint-Exupéry airport. Note for the latter, that from the Meyzieu ZI, the track leaves the former CFEL right-of-way to head south towards the airport.
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This small city of character, located 40 kilometers from Lyon has a sumptuous architectural heritage. Walking through its narrow streets, you will discover the Delphinal castle, its majestic 16th century hall, its cloister or its Augustinian convent. The medieval town of Crémieu is classified as a Protected Area for Urban and Landscape Architectural Heritage (ZPPAUP).
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Hières-Sur-Amby is rich in history. You can delve into the past at the Archaeological Site of Larina, which showcases remains from Prehistory to the Early Middle Ages, including ancient habitats and necropolises. Complementing this, the Archaeological Museum in the village center traces the region's history with a rich collection of artifacts. Other notable historical landmarks include the Parish Church of Saint-Pierre and the historic Hières-sur-Amby Farm, dating back to the 17th century.
Absolutely. Just a short distance away, you can explore Crémieu, a medieval town, known for its sumptuous architectural heritage, narrow streets, the Delphinal castle, and a 16th-century hall. Additionally, you can discover other historical castles like Château de Bienassis and Cingle Castle, both offering a glimpse into the region's past.
The region boasts several natural highlights. The Sensitive Natural Area (ENS) of the Larina Plateau offers breathtaking views and is a remarkable geological site. You can also visit the Sensitive Natural Area (ENS) of the Peat Bog and Lake, a vital natural environment with diverse flora and fauna. For scenic vistas, the View of Vertrieu castle from the ViaRhôna is highly recommended.
Yes, the area is excellent for cycling. The ViaRhôna cycle route borders the town, providing easy access to its heritage and landscapes along the Rhône river. For more structured routes, you can find various options for cycling around Hières-Sur-Amby, including loops that pass by the View of Vertrieu castle. Gravel biking enthusiasts can also explore numerous trails, such as those detailed in the Gravel biking around Hières-Sur-Amby guide.
Hières-Sur-Amby offers diverse hiking experiences. A popular route is the 'Tour du plateau de Larina par Hières-sur-Amby et Vernas,' a 12km loop that takes approximately 4 hours and 20 minutes, offering views of the Larina plateau and the archaeological site. You can also find various running trails around Hières-Sur-Amby, many of which are suitable for hiking, including routes around the Oppidum of Larina and Lac d'Hières.
Yes, the region is home to La Balme Caves, a fascinating cave system with archaeological finds and two chapels. You can explore these caves along a paved path approximately 1 kilometer long. The caves also offer a cool retreat during warmer weather.
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of historical depth and natural beauty. The medieval charm of Crémieu, the impressive views from the ViaRhôna towards Vertrieu castle, and the historical significance of sites like the Larina Archaeological Site are frequently highlighted. The opportunity for outdoor activities like cycling and hiking through picturesque landscapes is also a major draw.
Many attractions in the area are suitable for families. The La Balme Caves offer an engaging exploration for all ages. The medieval town of Crémieu provides an interesting historical walk, and the various hiking and cycling trails, including sections of the ViaRhôna, can be enjoyed by families looking for outdoor adventures.
The region is enjoyable throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling, with vibrant natural colors. Summer is ideal for exploring the natural areas and enjoying outdoor activities, with the La Balme Caves providing a cool escape. Always check specific attraction opening hours, especially outside peak season.
Yes, the Sensitive Natural Area (ENS) of the Larina Plateau is recognized as a remarkable geological site, classified as 'three stars' in the 'Inventory of Geological Heritage.' It features interesting quarries and viewpoints that showcase the area's unique geological formations.
The Archaeological Site of Larina is a major highlight, accessible all year round, with hiking trails leading from the heritage house. For more detailed information on the site and the complementary Archaeological Museum, you can visit the official tourism website: balconsdudauphine-tourisme.com.
Indeed. The Sensitive Natural Area (ENS) of the Peat Bog and Lake, located near the Larina site, is a significant natural environment. It is home to nearly 450 species of fauna and flora, making it an excellent spot for observing remarkable biodiversity, including various bird species. A footpath from the heritage house allows access to explore this rich ecosystem.


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