Massignieu-de-Rives lies on Lac du Lit au Roi, an extension of the Rhône. Thanks to its varied topography, the area offers numerous viewpoints over the landscapes of the Bugey and Savoy, as well as the Rhône Valley. The lake highlights the connection with the water, while the viewpoints add mountain scenery and valley views.
By the Water and on Two Wheels
The harbour of Massignieu-de-Rives is right on the ViaRhôna and has 125 moorings. If you are planning to use the harbour, check the current capacity information. The “Boucle des deux rives du Rhône” cycling loop also starts at the harbour. It is just under 20 kilometres long, has no elevation gain and runs almost entirely on cycle paths. Its length, elevation profile and route provide different points of reference for planning your ride. As route details may change, check the current route before setting off.
Local Heritage
On the route from the harbour towards the hamlet of Ecrivieux stands the former presbytery. It is in the Renaissance style and features a stepped gable, mullioned windows and accolade-shaped openings. A stepped gable has a tiered shape, while a mullion divides a window opening vertically; these terms help identify the presbytery’s architectural features more precisely.
The religious buildings have distinct features: the Saint Roch Chapel contains a small oratory dating from 1930, dedicated to Notre Dame du Bon Secours. Saint Martin’s Church was built in 1838 and incorporates part of the former church in Ecrivieux. The surviving remains of the Château des Ecrivieux include a tower, its spiral staircase, mullioned windows and a large room with a French-beam ceiling.
Historic Water Sites
The Ecrivieux washhouse in the hamlet of La Poissonnière was fed by a spring that supplied the trout reserve of the Lord of Rochefort. The stone Fontaine Paccard served as a fountain and watering trough for livestock. Together, these structures represent two former uses of water: supplying a trout reserve and serving as a fountain and livestock watering trough.
Wine and Seasonal Harvests
EARL Caveau Dufour produces red and white Bugey wines; the current product range may change. The vineyards of Caveau Quinard have been farmed organically since 2010; if you are interested, it is worth checking their current status. Free wine tastings are offered at Caveau Quinard. Check the current arrangements before visiting. At La Planche, you can pick red fruit directly in the garden, depending on the season. As availability is seasonal, ask in advance what will be on offer during your trip. If fruit picking is a priority for your trip, plan around the season and check availability beforehand.
Cycling or Local History?
There are two distinct ways to choose your focus: you can assess the cycling loop by its length, elevation profile and route, while the historic buildings and their dedications offer an architectural and historical focus. This can help you decide whether the cycling route or local history will shape your stay.
Discover more destinations: Hautecourt-Romanèche, Ramasse, Saint-Maurice-De-Beynost, Niévroz, Saint-Didier-De-Formans, Giron, Chaneins, Journans
For the wider travel overview: Ain.
