In Thoissey, historic buildings and collections meet walking paths along the canal and the Chalaronne. The Apothicairerie and the Cellier des Ursulines provide a strong cultural focus; for outdoor activities, you can choose from options including a cycling stage of the Voie Bleue and short walks. When planning, it is worth keeping the different conditions in mind: the Apothicairerie requires a reservation, while the Piscine estivale operates seasonally.
Cultural Sites and Local History
The Apothicairerie in Thoissey was built within the hospital between 1731 and 1735. Its furnishings include patinated walnut woodwork and cobalt-blue Nevers faience on Renaissance-style cabinets. Visits are possible by prior reservation for groups of 5 to 25 people; in summer, the Les Amis du vieux Thoissey et de ses environs association also offers visits. Reservation and seasonal arrangements may change, so it is recommended that you check them before your visit.
Founded in 1666, the Cellier des Ursulines serves as an exhibition venue for Thoissey's art collections. Since 2024, its restored north and south galleries of the small cloister have been open to visitors as exhibition spaces. The exhibition program may change. Another historic building is the 18th-century Chapelle du Clos de l'HĂ´pital, whose murals are painted in the style of Fra Angelico.
To explore the town's history along a route, follow the Itinéraire patrimonial et touristique de Thoissey, which features 14 information panels. The route is available year-round; panels and materials may be updated. It offers a distinct way to discover local history alongside visits to individual buildings.
Cycling and Walking Paths
The Voie Bleue includes a cycling stage from Thoissey to Trévoux. In Thoissey, a central rest stop on the Voie Bleue is located next to the campsite. It has luggage lockers, picnic tables, toilets, drinking water, tourist information and Wi-Fi. As facilities and route conditions may change, check local information before setting off.
For a walk along the Canal de Thoissey, take the towpath, which is approximately 900 metres long. It runs along Avenue du Port beneath an avenue of 179 plane trees planted in the 19th century. The short path and the cycling stage to Trévoux offer different ways to get around: a walk over a manageable distance or a ride with a named destination.
There is also a walking option along the Chalaronne: the Sentier de Découverte La Chalaronne au fil de l'eau – Boucle No. 1 Thoissey offers short, easy walks. Each loop has educational information panels. The route is accessible year-round; check local conditions before setting out.
Green Spaces and Seasonal Activities
In Parc municipal Général Marchand, the arboretum showcases numerous tree species, complemented by explanatory information panels. The park also has a children's playground and animals. Visitors can enjoy several different features during their stay: the variety of trees in the arboretum, information on the panels and other attractions in the park.
On the banks of the Chalaronne, Parc Aventure Thoissey offers families activities in a shady, leafy setting. Operations and the mix of activities are seasonal and may change; check the latest information before making plans. The Piscine estivale is also seasonal. It has three pools, a water slide, a diving board and water games. If you are planning a visit, check opening arrangements in advance.
Discover more destinations: Massignieu-De-Rives, Reyrieux, Hauteville-Lompnes, Misérieux, Peyrieu, Montluel, Valeins, Miribel.
For the broader travel overview: Ain.
