Miribel combines striking cultural landmarks with a river landscape shaped by the Rhône. When planning a trip, it is worth keeping both in mind: the Madone, historic architecture and murals offer insights into the town’s history; at Grand Parc Miribel-Jonage, nature and river landscapes take centre stage. The priorities you choose may also influence your choice of accommodation.
Cultural Landmarks and Art in Miribel
A landmark visible from afar is the statue of Notre Dame du Sacré-Cœur in Mas Rillier. It is 33 metres high and was inaugurated on 5 July 1941. An interior staircase with 151 steps leads to a balcony in the statue’s crown. From there, you can enjoy panoramic views of Miribel, Grand Parc, the Lyon metropolitan area, the Alps and Mont Blanc. Access depends on current availability. In 2025 and 2026, the Madone site is inaccessible due to rehabilitation work related to the Madone project. Check its reopening status before travelling.
The Église Saint-Martin also offers several ways to appreciate its architecture and furnishings together. The Gothic choir, crossing, a side chapel and part of the bell tower have been preserved. Inside are a Gothic altarpiece, classified as a Monument historique since 1928, and several listed polychrome wooden statues. The church is one of Miribel’s oldest historical landmarks and preserves more than seven centuries of religious, social and heritage-conservation history.
Another architectural landmark is the Croix de la fontaine de Saint-Romain on Place Henri-Grobon. The listed cross dates from the 19th century and was converted into a fountain in 1832: three drinking troughs are fed by the Source des Vingt. If you prefer to explore local history through public art, the Fresque de la Place Grobon features a 100-square-metre trompe-l’œil. The work by 7ème Sens was inaugurated on 5 July 2013 and depicts Henri Grobon, Joséphine Guillon, Henri Deschamps and Jean Moulin.
Two other murals offer different perspectives. The Fresque des Bateliers in Saint-Martin recalls Miribel’s river history and the importance of the Rhône to the region’s economic and social development. The Fresque des Frères Garnier honours two local figures and symbolises fraternity and community engagement. Together, the works tell different stories: of influential people and community, as well as the region’s relationship with the river.
River Landscapes and Walks
Part of Grand Parc Miribel-Jonage lies within Miribel and is presented by the town as a natural and recreational area. ĂŽle de Miribel-Jonage has been designated an Espace Naturel Sensible since 2014. The 668.81-hectare river island area also includes Miribel; Grand Parc Miribel-Jonage forms part of a Natura 2000 zone. The variety of habitats and species in the ENS area is linked to the development of the RhĂ´ne river system. Alongside the historic landmarks, river landscapes and nature are therefore also options to consider for your trip.
A visitor route through the ENS area follows farm tracks and forest paths. Ten stops explore the river landscapes; a downloadable audio guide is also available. Nearby, L’îloz’ in Grand Parc features permanent and temporary exhibitions, gardens, events and performances. L’îloz’ is also the starting point for numerous walks accessible to a wide audience. The events programme may change seasonally; check dates if you are planning to attend a performance or event.
Plan Your Journey and Accommodation
Miribel centre is one of Miribel’s two railway stations. If you plan to travel by train, check the timetable separately. If you are looking for hotels in Miribel, you can use this thematic focus as a starting point for planning your own trip.
The February and March 2026 municipal magazine regularly mentions public concerts by the Carillon du Mas Rillier. Check specific event dates separately if you would like to include a concert in your plans. This lets you prioritise visits to cultural landmarks, nature experiences and potential events according to your interests, without assuming a particular itinerary.
Discover more destinations: Neuville-Sur-Ain, Cerdon, Bény, Saint-Laurent-sur-Saône, Évosges, Bellegarde-Sur-Valserine, Cormaranche-En-Bugey, Pérouges.
For the regional travel overview: Ain.
