Presentation
In Ain, we like to share precious moments with you... Whether in the countryside or in the mountains, the scenery comes alive with the passing seasons in the heart of a proud and innovative region. The Ain surprises, delights and enthrals.
Day 1: Arrival in Ain
Check-in at the 4* Mercure Hotel in Bourg-en-Bresse
Welcome aperitif - Dinner (2-course menu) and overnight stay.
Day 2: Discovering Bresse
A guide will accompany you throughout the day.
Morning:
The Apothecary of the Hôtel-Dieu is unique for still having its laboratory intact, which is very rare. Here, all the instruments needed for medicine preparation are preserved (press, alembic, swan neck...). Two other rooms, with 18th-century woodwork, display an impressive collection of pots and boxes for plant preservation.
Lunch at a farm inn in Vernoux.
Savor the "Bresse chicken with cream."
Afternoon: Guided tour of the Forest Farm in Courtes
Classified as a Historical Monument in 1930, the Forest Farm is a beautiful example of a Bresse farm from the late 16th century. The main building showcases traditional architecture with its gallery motifs and Saracen chimney. The tour will touch on food, construction techniques, and agricultural activities. Finally, a break outdoors allows for a pleasant stroll around the vegetable garden.
Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 3: Discovering the Thousand Ponds of Dombes
Morning:
Meet your guide in Châtillon-sur-Chalaronne for a guided tour by coach of the ponds of Dombes. Stops by the ponds will allow you to understand their history, cycles, traditional fishing methods, and local flora and fauna (approximately 30 km tour).
Lunch in a local restaurant
Enjoy the specialties of Dombes.
Afternoon:
Join your guide for a guided walking tour of Châtillon-sur-Chalaronne. Be led along the flower-lined streets of this charming medieval town. Discover the Gothic Saint-André church, the 15th-century Market Hall, the former residence of Saint-Vincent-de-Paul, and typical half-timbered houses.
Presentation of Dombes carp leather
At the end of the tour, return to the Tourism Pavilion for a demonstration by a leatherworker of the making of an object from carp leather.
On the way back, enjoy some free time in Bourg-en-Bresse to explore the shopping area before returning to the hotel.
Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 4: Bourg-en-Bresse and the Bird Park
Morning: Guided tour of the Royal Monastery of Brou
This jewel of flamboyant Gothic style, built in the 16th century by order of Margaret of Austria, will fascinate you with its exuberance, delicate architecture, magnificent stained glass windows, princely tombs, and three cloisters.
Lunch in a restaurant in the Bird Park
Afternoon: Free visit of the Bird Park in Villars-les-Dombes
A unique experience, an ornithological and botanical world tour without borders. With 2,500 birds of 250 species over 35 hectares, the Park has one of Europe’s largest collections. Wander freely and observe birds moving freely across 24 habitats mirroring world landscapes in a harmonious ecosystem.
Bird flight show
A highlight of your afternoon at the Park! Enjoy a magical ballet of grace and color from the stands (weather permitting).
Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 5: Cultural and Natural Heritage of Ain
Morning: Guided tour of the Bonnet Silk Museum
Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of the Bonnet Silkworks in Jujurieux. Discover the thrilling history of its boarding factory and 200 years of textile creation. As you wander through the old workshops, admire the journey from cocoon to fabric.
Lunch in a restaurant in the heart of Pérouges
Afternoon: Guided tour of Pérouges
Meet your guide at the restaurant and begin the guided tour of Pérouges, a former 13th-century weaving village, now classified as one of the most beautiful villages in France: cobbled streets, ramparts, fortress church, and the linden tree square... you’ll be enchanted by this jewel preserved through the ages (flat shoes recommended).
Tasting of the "Pérougian galette"
To conclude this day convivially, enjoy the famous "Pérougian galette" with a glass of Bugey wine* in a typical village restaurant.
Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 6: Return Journey
Departure after breakfast.
* Excessive drinking is dangerous for health, please consume in moderation.
Opening period
From 01/04 to 11/11/2025.
Rates
Adult: from 699.50 €.
RDV à l'Apothicairerie de l'Hôtel Dieu
47 boulevard de Brou
01000
Bourg-en-Bresse
Payment method
- Bank/credit card
- Check
- Credit transfer
