Things to do in Ain: an unusual nature getaway at the gateway to the Jura
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Published on 10/2/25, modified on 4/3/26
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Looking for wide open spaces, unusual heritage and gourmet experiences? Then you'll love the Ain south of the Jura Mountains. Accessible by train via the Bellegarde-sur-Valserine TGV station this territory at the gateway to Lyon and Geneva combines wild nature, history and conviviality. Ideal for a weekend away from it all.
The Ain is strategically located between Lyon and Geneva with numerous TER and TGV stations.
🚆 From Paris :
🚆 From Lyon :
🚆 From Geneva :
👉 Once on site, the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes TER network makes it easy to reach the main points of interest (Bugey, Dombes, Pays de Gex).
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Things to do in Ain: an unusual nature getaway at the gateway to the Jura
The Ain is the perfect place for hiking and outdoor enthusiasts. Visit Valserine the first river to be awarded the "Rivières Sauvages" label, reveals spectacular treasures such as the Pertes de la Valserine the Champfromier waterfall or giant pots. À Giron perched at an altitude of 1,000 m, there's plenty of room for mountain biking, panoramic hikes and majestic forests. And for the more curious, Dinoplagne® takes you back 150 million years on the world's longest dinosaur footprint trail!
Discover Ain's heritage between mountains and valleys. Visit Fort l'Écluse perched on the side of a cliff, tells the story of centuries of military history and offers a bird's-eye view of the Rhône River. Visit Crêt de la Goutte the emblematic summit of the Jura Mountains, rewards hikers with a splendid panorama of the Alps and Mont-Blanc. And in the villages, artisanal encounters and local discoveries extend your experience off the beaten track.
A gourmet land, the Ain blends Bresse and mountain influences. Whether you're a nature lover, a history buff or a gourmet, the Ain promises a holiday full of discoveries, all within easy reach of the train!
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What to do in the Jura Mountains in a week?
The Ain region depends on the TER Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes with offers valid throughout the department.
This guide is produced in partnership with the tourism office:
