The Église d'Ouroux combines Romanesque-Byzantine architecture with a bell tower dating from the 12th century. There are also hiking and mountain biking trails, a farm offering goat cheese tastings, and a traditional festival held on July 13. When planning your stay, you can focus on culture, a hiking trail, a bike ride, or a visit to the Eco-ferme du Carruge.

The Église d'Ouroux and its history

A Star of David and a monstrance are depicted on the roof of the bell tower. The protected status also differs between parts of the building: the bell tower has been classified as a Monument historique since December 21, 1982, while the rest of the church has been listed since the same date. The Église d'Ouroux is open to visitors free of charge, every day throughout the year, either individually or in groups. A visit to the church offers a chance to admire its Romanesque-Byzantine architecture and distinctive roof decorations.

Hiking routes of various lengths

Le Chemin de Deux-Grosnes is a 74-kilometer long-distance hiking trail. It connects the seven historic communities of Monsols, Saint-Christophe, Trades, Saint-Mamert, Saint-Jacques-des-Arrêts, Ouroux, and Avenas. The Boucle d'Ouroux is part of this trail: it is 13.3 kilometers long, includes 554 meters of elevation gain, and takes about 4 hours and 30 minutes. The stated duration and elevation gain can help you gauge the demands of this loop for your hiking day.

Another option is the Circuit d'Ouroux. In addition to the 22-kilometer main loop, there are three shorter alternatives measuring 3.5, 11.4, and 17.5 kilometers. The route is mostly wooded and passes through varied landscapes. It also runs near the castles of Gros Bois, La Carelle, and Arcis, which differ noticeably in their architecture and style. When planning, you can weigh up a loop with a stated duration and elevation gain against a circuit with several distance options.

Mountain biking routes with different highlights

Mountain biking route M11 runs from Ouroux to Avenas and offers panoramic views from the Montagne de Rochefort. M12 runs from Monsols to Ouroux through valleys and along ridgelines. On the return to Monsols, it passes through the forest; near Ouroux and Saint-Mamert, there are two enjoyable descents. Signage for M12 is being updated, a detail to bear in mind when planning your route.

A farm visit, goat cheese, and a festival date

At the Eco-ferme du Carruge, you can visit the farm on your own. Guided nature walks are also available. Tastings include plain goat cheese, as well as varieties with herbs or spices. If you plan to join a guided walk, check in advance whether one will be available during your visit.

The Comité des Fêtes of Ouroux traditionally holds the “Cochon grillé” on July 13. If this festival is important to your travel dates, confirm the date for the relevant year in advance.

Discover more destinations: Ville-Sur-Jarnioux, Saint-Jean-Des-Vignes, Givors, Morancé, Tupin-Et-Semons, Lantignié, Saint-Forgeux, Le Bois-D'oingt.

For the regional travel overview: Rhône.