The Ain and Suran rivers shape Neuville-Sur-Ain; alongside them, protected houses, castles and a sacred work of art represent different eras. When choosing where to stay, you can weigh up river landscapes, cultural history and seasonal activities. If you are looking for a hotel in Neuville-Sur-Ain, first consider which of these themes will be the deciding factor for your trip.
History among houses, castles and a chapel
The houses of Neuville-le-Bas, built like balconies overlooking the river, have been protected as historic monuments since August 1946. The Château de la Tour in Neuville-sur-Ain has been partially protected since 27 July 2006: the protection covers the château and the park, but not the modern pavilions. The estate has four façades with different designs, bringing together symmetry and asymmetry. The present-day Château was built in the 19th century on a site that had been used since the Middle Ages, where a keep already stood.
The Château de Thol is also defined by its architecture: it is a fortified complex dating from the 13th century, with a square layout and two towers, featuring typical characteristics of medieval military architecture. It has been listed in the supplementary inventory of historic monuments since 1927. In October 2020, the Château reopened to the public for certain events, including Castle Night and the European Archaeology Days. If you are planning a visit, check the current opening dates separately.
The Abri de la Colombière is a classified natural site and is one of the major archaeological sites in the Ain département for the study of prehistoric societies. The shelter itself is not open to visitors. The Chapelle d’Arthurieux Saint-Joachim et Sainte-Anne houses a 17th-century painting depicting Saint Anne, the Virgin Mary, Saint Andrew and Saint Mark.
Rivers and nature through the seasons
Near Neuville-sur-Ain, the Suran has numerous meanders. In summer, it sinks into the karst terrain; in winter, it spreads out. Its meanders, summer disappearance underground and winter expansion give the river a distinct seasonal character. The Ain is partly wild and partly calm, and is strongly influenced by hydroelectric facilities.
Further along the lower Ain valley, numerous active oxbow lakes, riparian woodlands and dry grasslands are among the notable habitats. The natural landscape therefore extends beyond the rivers themselves to include the wetland and dry habitats of the lower valley. A path open to pedestrians connects Neuville-Sur-Ain and Poncin along the right bank of the Ain. A large entrance portico can be seen from this path.
Planning for water activities and cycling
L’Esquimaude offers canoe and kayak trips starting in Neuville-sur-Ain. For the 2026 season, routes of 5, 7, 13, 22 and 32 kilometres are listed. The different distances can be compared when planning; route availability is seasonal. Before planning your trip, check which route is offered for your dates. Neuville-sur-Ain is also listed as a BPF-BCN point by the Fédération française de cyclotourisme.
A recurring production date
At the Moulin de Neuville, the new production campaign for walnut and hazelnut oil begins at the start of each year. This is a recurring date in the annual calendar, while canoe trips are seasonal. You can take these different timings into account separately when planning your trip.
Discover more destinations
Discover more destinations: Jasseron, Grilly, Meximieux, Château-Gaillard, Mantenay-Montlin, Montluel, Viriat, Vonnas.
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