Villette-d’Anthon offers a range of ways to explore: the preserved remains of the former Saint-Martin Church and the Marais de Charvas, one of the last wetlands east of Lyon. There are also signposted walking trails and an equestrian centre. If you are considering the town as a place to stay, you could first think about whether local history, the landscape or outdoor activities will shape your itinerary.
Saint-Martin: local history marked by two dates
The preserved remains of the former Saint-Martin Church are still visible in the hamlet of Sous l’Eglise. The church is mentioned in written sources as early as 995. Restoration of the former church and the cemetery surrounding it was completed in 2005. These details span the period from an early written mention to a much later restoration.
The dates refer to different things: 995 marks the church’s mention in written sources, while 2005 marks the completion of its restoration. The preserved remains provide a tangible connection to the town’s history; the restoration also included the surrounding cemetery. Those interested in local history will therefore find both an early written reference and a completed restoration project here.
The Marais de Charvas and the landscape
The Marais de Charvas is located in the commune of Villette-d’Anthon and is one of the last wetlands east of Lyon. At least 151 plant species and ten amphibian species have been recorded there. The figures refer to different groups of species and offer concrete examples of the wetland’s biodiversity.
The area’s agricultural tradition also forms part of the landscape: it has helped preserve the landscapes and the environment. This brings together two distinct perspectives—the Marais as a specific wetland and agriculture as part of the region’s landscape history. Alongside the recorded species, this gives nature enthusiasts another way to understand the area around the town.
Walking trails and an equestrian centre
Villette-d’Anthon has numerous established, signposted walking trails that provide safe connections to neighbouring communes. The trails are therefore of interest not only for getting around within the commune: their stated purpose explicitly includes connections beyond its boundaries. This offers a different perspective on a stay than focusing on a single historical or landscape feature.
Another activity is available at Haras Symphonies, an equestrian centre at Chemin des Eglantiers in Villette-d’Anthon. The walking trails and equestrian centre appeal to different interests in outdoor activities: for the trails, a specific feature is their connection to neighbouring communes; for Haras Symphonies, it is the address of a named equestrian centre. Both can shape the choice of where to stay from a different perspective.
Getting there and finding your way around
From Lyon, follow the Rocade Est, take the “Meyzieu Sud – Pont-de-Chéruy – Crémieu” exit, and then continue along the expressway. As route numbers can change, it is worth checking the current route before setting off. Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport is seven kilometres from the town centre. This figure refers to the distance to the centre and provides a separate point of reference when planning your trip.
Discover more destinations: Saint-Didier-De-La-Tour, La Morte, Colombe, Beaurepaire, Reventin-Vaugris, Mont-De-Lans, Beauvoir-de-Marc, Vignieu.
For the broader travel overview: Isere.
