Meyrieu-Les-Étangs is a commune of hills, valleys and plains; around 30 ponds give the landscape a distinctive character. The clayey, impermeable soil encourages their formation. The oldest ponds were created in the 13th century under the direction of monks from Bonnevaux Abbey. Nature and history can be viewed through the same motif here: the ponds shape the landscape and date back a long way.

Ponds, natural surroundings and fishing

Montjoux is an Espace Naturel Sensible (sensitive natural area) between Saint-Jean de Bournay and Meyrieu-Les-Étangs. The area covers 52 hectares and offers a natural setting for fishing. Alongside the ponds as a feature of the landscape, this makes a specific activity in the natural area part of the picture. The stated size gives a sense of Montjoux as a distinct, bounded natural area; the opportunity to fish offers a different way to experience it than walking through the landscape.

The Plateau du Terrier circular trail also combines observing nature with a clearly described route. It is 11.2 kilometres long, has 200 metres of positive elevation gain and is rated Blue – moderate. The walk offers panoramic views of the first foothills of the Alps and the ponds in the valley. The distance, ascent and stated difficulty level provide different points of reference for planning your outing. The trail is open every day year-round and is free to access; check the conditions before setting out.

Another hike crosses the Gervonde near La Plate. The river feeds numerous ponds. Thus, the two hike descriptions focus on different connections with water: on the Plateau du Terrier, panoramic views of ponds in the valley; at La Plate, the river that feeds many ponds. The Gervonde is a specific landmark for this hike, not the name of the Plateau du Terrier circular trail.

Churches, architecture and festival

In the hamlet of La Roche stands the Saint-Clair Church, dedicated to Saint Clair. It was built between 1874 and 1879 and is designed in the Romanesque style. Its floor plan is shaped like a Latin cross.

Another historical detail can be found on the bell tower at Boucharin. Its surviving lower section has been converted into a funerary chapel. The name SAINT MARTIN and the year 1684 are engraved on the stone lintel above the doorway in this part of the tower.

Les Arts en herbe takes place repeatedly, with Meyrieu-Les-Étangs among its twelve host communes. The festival offers performances, workshops, games, readings and meet-ups for children and adults. Activities range from performances and readings to hands-on events; the programme is explicitly intended for audiences of different age groups.

Important when planning: the Base de Loisirs du Moulin is permanently closed. Check its status locally again before your trip.

Discover more destinations: Le Touvet, Valbonnais, Vertrieu, Pont-En-Royans, Mottier, Saint-Hilaire-du-Rosier, Septème, Saint-Martin-Dʼhères.

For the broader travel overview: Isere.