Attractions and Places To See around Pizay - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Pizay are located in the Ain department of France's Auvergne Rhône-Alpes region. This area features a blend of historical landmarks, natural landscapes, and cultural sites. Visitors can explore medieval towns, significant architectural structures, and expansive natural parks. The region provides opportunities to discover local history and engage with its diverse environment.
Best attractions and places to see around Pizay
- The most popular attraction is Medieval town of Pérouges, a historical site known for its medieval and authentic charm. This village is ranked among France's most beautiful and features a 15th-century church-fortress.
- Another must-see spot is Jonage Dam, a man-made monument. This 154-meter-long dam, built from dressed stone in the late 19th century, plays a role in preserving the environment of the Grand Parc de Miribel-Jonage.
- Visitors also love Sainte-Madeleine Church of Le Montellier, a religious building. This 12th-century church is part of a village whose history is intertwined with its castle.
- Pizay is known for its historical sites, natural features, and cultural attractions. The area offers a variety of places to see and explore, including medieval towns, dams, and churches.
- The attractions around Pizay are appreciated by the komoot community, with 34 photos and 122 upvotes from visitors.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
Medieval town of Pérouges
Highlight • Historical Site
Its location at the entrance to the medieval city sets the tone: the church of Pérouges cannot be a traditional Gothic church! Built like a fortress defending access to the medieval town, it consists of defensive walls pierced with narrow stained glass windows and a few side chapels. Of great austerity, which it has not always had, the church impresses with its dimensions and its ancient statues. The presence of loopholes makes it a rare building, witness to a bygone era. The church still hosts sacraments and celebrations, as well as many concerts. The statue of Mary Magdalene, present since the 15th century, watches over this raw jewel of Gothic art.
lofficiel.net/eglise-sainte-marie-madeleine_8_7449.aspx
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Medieval town of Pérouges
Highlight • Settlement
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Sainte-Madeleine Church of Le Montellier
Highlight • Religious Site
The history of this pleasant flowered village merges with that of the castle. The origin of the name of Montellier was glimpsed by the Burgundian historian Courtépée: "height on the track".
The seigniory of Montellier, under the suzerainty of the Lords of Thoire-Villars from the 12th to the 15th century, was first owned by gentlemen named Montellier, a family which died out at the beginning of the 14th century.
ladombes.free.fr/Villes_Dombes/Le_Montellier.htm
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Fortifications
Highlight • Other
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Jonage Dam
Highlight • Monument
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The site features the remains of fortifications dating from the 11th to the 19th centuries. The former castle of the Lords of Loyes (ruins of the Château de la Pie), the modern castle, the formal garden, and the kitchen garden are all visible. In the 18th century, major work was carried out on the Château de Loyes, but a fire destroyed the tops of the towers and the roof. In 1840, renovations were undertaken, including the construction of outbuildings, a woodshed/cellar, and stables. At the end of the 19th century, a church was built, dividing the castle mound in two. The castle entrance was modified at the end of the 19th century, along with the neo-Gothic wall. The garden, originally laid out in the early 18th century, was modernized by Luizet and Barret at the end of the 19th century; a landscaped garden was added to the formal garden. The castle mound is accessible via a footpath. Inside, a 17th-century staircase with ramps is adorned with the coats of arms of its various owners, painted in the 19th century. https://pop.culture.gouv.fr/notice/merimee/PA01000030
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Nice little town, very calm and relaxing.
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After the Blessed Virgin Mary, "Sainte MARIE MADELEINE" is the woman most frequently mentioned in the writings of the New Testament. Originally called "Mary of Magdala", after her place of origin on the Sea of Galilee, the name "Mary Magdalene" has evolved over time. According to the biblical accounts, she is one of the women and men who followed Jesus of Nazareth. According to the testimony of the evangelists, Mary Magdalene is also one of the three women who, after the crucifixion and burial of Jesus Christ, wanted to anoint the body on Easter morning after the Sabbath rest, and the very first person who ever met the Risen Christ. In theology, she is therefore also known as the "Apostle of the Apostles". The feast day of Sainte Marie-Madeleine in the calendar of saints is July 22nd.
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Very beautiful medieval city. The village of my childhood. Absolutely taste the pancakes! 😉🍰
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Beautiful church with its little bus stop for a little snack break
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The medieval city of Pérouges is a true jewel of the past. Located to the east of Lyon, it transports us to a distant era, where cobbled streets and houses made of pebbles and bricks tell stories of yesteryear. With its 80 inhabitants living within its walls and 1,200 residents in the commune, Pérouges is an inhabited village which freely welcomes visitors all year round.
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Ranked among the most beautiful villages in France, Pérouges offers you a trip to the Middle Ages. The tourist activities between April and August will allow you to see the city from another angle. Between history and terroir, this city of character 30 kilometers from Lyon will not leave you insensitive with its medieval and authentic charm. Before leaving, don't forget to taste the local speciality: the Peruvian pancake, the unmissable sugar pie.
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This 154 meter long dam is made of dressed stone. It was built at the end of the 19th century. Today it plays a major role in preserving the environment of the large park of Miribel-Jonage.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore near Pizay?
Beyond the well-known Medieval town of Pérouges, you can visit the Sainte-Madeleine Church of Le Montellier, a 12th-century religious building with a rich history tied to its village. Another significant site is the Brou Royal Monastery, a national monument located about 37 km away. For a deeper dive into local heritage, the Musée d'art et d'histoire locale in Montluel offers a glimpse into the past within a 16th-century bourgeois house.
Are there any unique architectural landmarks in the Pizay area?
Yes, the region boasts several unique architectural landmarks. The Medieval town of Pérouges features a 15th-century church-fortress, unique in France for its defensive architecture. The Jonage Dam, a 154-meter-long cut stone structure from the late 19th century, is another impressive man-made monument. Additionally, the Collégiale Notre-Dame des Marais, built between 1380 and 1750, showcases a blend of Gothic and Renaissance styles.
What natural attractions are there around Pizay?
The area around Pizay offers diverse natural beauty. The Grand Parc de Miribel-Jonage, approximately 15 km away, is a large natural park perfect for outdoor activities. The Dombes region, about 14 km from Pizay, is famous for its thousands of small lakes, ideal for fishing and bird-watching. You can also explore the scenic Valleys of Cottey and Merdanson, which feature natural spots like Lac Neyton.
Are there opportunities for hiking or cycling near Pizay?
Absolutely! The region around Pizay is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find numerous trails for hiking, such as the easy "Hiking loop from Pizay" or the moderate "Lake Neyton loop from Dagneux." For cyclists, there are options like the "Medieval Town of Pérouges Loop from Montluel" for road cycling or more challenging gravel biking routes like the "Mount Cindre – Feyssine Park loop from Montluel." You can find more details on these and other routes in the Hiking around Pizay, Gravel biking around Pizay, and Road Cycling Routes around Pizay guides.
What family-friendly activities are available around Pizay?
Families visiting Pizay have several options. The Medieval town of Pérouges is considered family-friendly, offering a captivating step back in time. For animal encounters, the Jardin zoologique de la ville de Lyon (22km) and Parc animalier de Courzieu (41km) are great choices. For thrill-seekers, Walibi Rhone Alpes, an amusement park, is about 46 km away, and Karting Lyon OnlyKart in Dagneux is just 5.6 km from Pizay.
What is the best time of year to visit Pizay?
The tourist activities in the Medieval town of Pérouges are particularly vibrant between April and August, suggesting that late spring to late summer is an excellent time to visit for cultural exploration. This period generally offers pleasant weather for enjoying outdoor activities like hiking and cycling in the surrounding natural areas.
Can I visit the gardens of Château de Pizay?
Yes, the Château de Pizay, a beautiful castle dating back to between the 11th and 19th centuries, is known for its French-style gardens. These gardens, created by André Le Nôtre in 1692, feature impressive topiary pieces. While the château also functions as a hotel, its gardens are a notable attraction for relaxing walks and can be explored. More information can be found at rhonetourisme.com.
Are there any local markets to visit near Pizay?
Yes, several local markets are held in nearby towns, offering a chance to experience local life and find regional products. You can visit markets in Beligneux (Sundays, 4km away), Montluel (Fridays, 5km away), and Meximieux (Wednesdays, 8km away).
What is there to see in Lyon, which is close to Pizay?
Historic Lyon, located about 24 km from Pizay, is a major city offering a wealth of attractions. Its Old Town (Vieux Lyon) is particularly famous for its 16th-century townhouses and a magnificent cathedral. Beyond its historical core, Lyon boasts impressive buildings, monuments, museums, diverse shops, and renowned restaurants, making it a fantastic day trip destination.
Where can I go for bird-watching or fishing near Pizay?
The Dombes region, situated about 14 km from Pizay, is an ideal destination for both bird-watching and fishing. This unique area is characterized by thousands of small lakes, providing a rich habitat for various bird species and excellent opportunities for anglers.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Pizay?
Visitors particularly appreciate the journey back in time offered by the Medieval town of Pérouges, often highlighting its authentic charm and the delicious local specialty, the "galette pérougienne." The historical significance and unique defensive architecture of the Ste Marie Madeleine church-fortress also receive high praise. The natural beauty and outdoor activity potential of areas like the Grand Parc de Miribel-Jonage are also highly valued by the community.
Are there any fortifications or castle ruins to explore?
Yes, you can explore the Fortifications, which are the remains of the Château de Loyes. This site features ruins dating from the 11th to the 19th centuries, including the former castle of the Lords of Loyes. While the modern castle itself is currently closed, you can still appreciate the impressive exterior and the historical context of the site, including a landscaped garden and a 17th-century staircase with coats of arms.
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