Chessy combines golden-stone rooftops with a medieval village centre and visible traces of its history. The Sentier de la colline Nord, also known as the “Chemin de la Madone”, overlooks the village and offers a view of the rooftops before the route leads to the village centre. Landscape and local history therefore come together right in the route description.

Paths and exploring the village

The Sentier des Mines de Chessy has a different thematic focus. This 1.3-kilometre nature trail features information panels on geology, flora, fauna and the village’s history. Those who would like to explore these themes together will find them along this route; the Sentier de la colline Nord, by contrast, offers views over the rooftops and a continuation into the medieval centre. The two descriptions therefore provide different starting points for planning: thematic panels along the nature trail, or views and the village centre on the Sentier de la colline Nord.

Another way to explore the village is the “Jeu de piste pour les petits et les grands”. This little booklet is designed as a treasure hunt. The printed booklet’s availability may change, so it is best to check before making plans.

Traces of local history

At Bourgchanin, a well-preserved gateway from the former fortifications remains. Sections of the former town wall can be seen on the north-western and southern sides of the village centre. The gate and remains of the wall offer tangible evidence of the former fortifications and are located on different sides of the centre. Local heritage also includes wash houses and fountains; one of the fountains is watched over by Saint Bartholomew.

Chessy’s church also preserves historic works of art. The stone holy-water font dates from 1556, is the work of Jehan Gerba of Chessy, and has been listed since 1904. The church also retains fragments of stained glass, listed by decree on 25 January 1908. A single stonework and preserved glass fragments thus offer different insights into the village’s ecclesiastical heritage.

The Château de Chessy overlooks the village. It was built in 1271–1272, expanded in the second half of the 15th century, and restored in the Neo-Gothic style in the 19th century. This sequence distinguishes its construction, expansion and later transformation. The château is privately owned and closed to visitors. Do not plan it as an accessible stop, and check its visitor status again before considering a visit.

A geological connection to Chessy

The name Chessylite also refers to the mines associated with Chessy. Blue azurite was given this name after its discovery in the 19th century. The mineral’s name offers another way to explore local history: alongside the buildings and medieval centre, the nature trail also highlights geology, flora and fauna as distinct themes. If you are weighing up these different interests for a stay in Chessy, you can look to the links between nature, local history and preserved heritage.

Discover more destinations

Craponne, Montagny, Ampuis, Bully, Le Bois-D'oingt, Châtillon, Taluyers, Saint-Germain-Nuelles

Back to the main travel overview: Rhône.