The Ain River, free and preserved, is a natural space reserved for those who respect nature. While swimming is tolerated, it is for canoeing, fishing and walks along the water that it is most famous.
La Ain river runs through the department of the same name. It crosses it from north to south to flow into the Rhône. Towards Loyettes and Saint-Maurice-de-Gourdans it creates a wild and moving confluence, a site classified for its landscapes since 1930. The Ain River is a complex and natural heritage preserved. A look at its many facets!
The Ain, a multifaceted river
The river carries many pebbles, which creates beaches, sometimes vast and sometimes intimate. These beaches are conducive to contemplation, rest and walks.
Swimming near Lyon: swimming in the Ain river
The Ain river is a complex river. In addition to its regular water releases, several areas are protected to respect biodiversity.
La bathing is tolerated but the sites are undeveloped and unsupervised. A situation that requires the utmost vigilance from everyone. Parking must be done only in the spaces provided and swimming is at your own risk.
Supervised swimming points in Ain
For greater comfort and safety, you can head towards designated sites.
- the Green Point in Serrières-de-Briord : free bathing site with picnic areas, public toilets and beach restaurant. The Nauticlub welcomes you for pedal boat, canoe or paddle outings!
- Chambod Island : Leisure center fitted out with all sorts of nautical and bathing activities for children. The site is accessible to people with reduced mobility.
- Swimming pools and nautical centers : Ain Pulse in Saint-Vulbas, aquatic center in Ambérieu-en-Bugey or the summer swimming pool in Lagnieu.
Ain River: canoeing in freedom
The river also offers other leisure activities such as fishing, canoeing and hiking on the water.
It is possible to practice the canoeing down the Ain river. An original way to enjoy the landscapes in complete privacy. The banks of the river, often inaccessible, hide a fascinating biodiversity. It is also an opportunity to swim in uncrowded corners (always with respect for nature).
Several clubs and rental companies are at your disposal to go down the river in peace. From 5km to 25km of course along, from half a day to 2 days of ride.
- The Eskimo at Pont-d'Ain
- River activities at the St-Maurice-de-Gourdans nautical club
- The Longeville base in Ambronay
A TIP FOR APPLYING THE RIGHT GESTURES
L'Eskimo, canoe rental companies, created the “Canoe Ain” application. In addition to your route, the app shows you the protected areas to help you respect nature. A feature mentions the banks where picnics and swimming are possible. Sensitive areas are not allowed to take care of biodiversity.
Available for Iphone and Android on App Store et Google Play Store. The app has many other features to ensure your safety and comfort on the descent.
Fishing and hiking on the Ain River
It is possible to practice fishing and walking on the paths laid out around the Ain river. From the priory of Blyes, several paths lead to the lake or to the confluence of the Rhône. (hiking and mountain biking trails from 4km to 14km)
ATTENTION, the practice of fishing is subject to a regulations.
The Ain River, a remarkable site
The Ain River has the particularity of being a free river, with its bed which changes with the rains and creates beaches, meanders, islands, spits, etc.
Beaches with pebbles from the Ice Age
The "Broteaux", are the banks sometimes submerged by the floods sometimes dry. These are places conducive to the development of a rich and varied fauna and flora. They are also part of the European network Natura 2000 and are subject to a management plan. The Conservatory of Natural Spaces regularly offers commented walks on these spaces. An educational way to better understand and respect the river and its species.
In periods of heavy rain, the river fills its water tables and conversely, in times of drought, it is the water tables that come to feed the river, to the delight of the inhabitants of the river.
Furthermore, pebbles are found in local architecture, as in the medieval city of Pérouges.
Notice to photography enthusiasts, the river offers incredible landscapes and colors. Images to share on theInstagram of the tourist office.
This river is above all a remarkable natural site, which must be preserved, with everyone's help.
- Collect your rubbish
- Park in suitable places
- Wild fires prohibited
- Respect natural habitats for flora and fauna by following the instructions for practicing activities.