EuroVelo 17 ViaRhona: Groslée - Lagnieu Green Route

EuroVelo 17 – ViaRhôna: Green route from Groslée to Lagnieu, between wild nature and preserved heritage

step Groslée – Lagnieu of the ViaRhôna, long 48 km is one of the most picturesque and scenic sections of the EuroVelo 17 route. This unique stretch takes you temporarily away from the banks of the Rhône for an immersion in the heart of the Balconies of the Dauphinéa territory blending Historical heritage, protected nature and villages with timeless charm.

Since Groslée bridgeYou enter a verdant setting. Heading towards BranchesA detour allows you to discover its castle and enjoy a superb panoramic view over the plain. Then, the greenway runs alongside the Route de Groslée before taking you to Morestel, the charming "City of Painters". You can choose to bypass the city or cross its old center, rich in art galleries, shops and restaurantsperfect for a gourmet or cultural break.

After Morestel, the route enters an environment quiet and shaded, crossing small wooded paths to the Serre Ponds, a protected natural area, ideal for a picnic stop. Further on, the greenway leads you to Quirieu, a medieval town now asleep, perched on a hill overlooking the Rhône, offering breathtaking views of the valley.

The stage then continues until The Blue Valley, a dynamic leisure park located in Montalieu-Vercieu. Restaurants, a swimming pool, a beach, and entertainment await cyclists looking for a relaxing break. You continue towards Sault-Brenaz via the island of the greenhouse, a true oasis in the heart of the Rhône, renowned for its water sports (kayaking in particular) and its peaceful atmosphere.

From there, the route crosses the Rhône again at Lagnieu bridgeThis is a point to watch out for due to the shared space with cars on a narrow sidewalk. VTC variant It exists via grassy paths, to the right after the bridge. Once in the Ain department, you reach the greenway to La Balme-les-Grottes, the end of this stage and a natural jewel. Its famous caves, ranked among the 7 wonders of the Dauphiné, are an unmissable stop, combining spectacular galleries, natural pools and magical rock formations.

Throughout this stage, the landscape alternates between limestone cliffs, dense forests, tranquil ponds et ancient villages as Saint-Sorlin-en-Bugey, Priord (and its Roman aqueduct), or even Vertrieuflanked by two castles. The Thursday morning market in Sault-Brénaz or that of Sunday in Morestel are excellent local stops for discovering local products.

Accessible in all seasons, this section of the ViaRhôna is a An invitation to slow down, to explore off the beaten track.and to savor an authentic France, between land of stone and wetlandsAll this in a setting perfectly suited to cycle tourists, with safe routes, numerous "Accueil Vélo" services and treasures at every turn.