Circuit of the 4 castles

This sporty itinerary will take you to discover four unmissable sites in the Albarine valley in the Bugey mountains, at the foothills of the Jura. This journey will immerse you in a universe filled with history.

This hike is very sporty since it has more than 1220m of elevation. The estimated time to complete it is about 10 hours. This is why it is recommended that hikers undertake this circuit over two days in order to reduce the intensity. The average walking pace is estimated at 3,5 km/h.

IMPORTANT: families and leisure hikers will prefer to go independently to each site by parking nearby. The complete route being too difficult for uninitiated people.

Walkers are invited to start the journey up there, perched on the heights overlooking the Plaine de l'Ain, by the Château des Allymes. Symbol of the conflict between Dauphinois and Savoyards, this stone fortress is the mark of defense of the Albarine valley of which it guards the entrance. It can be visited all year round.

To continue exploring, follow the marked route of the GR59 between the Château des Allymes and that of Saint-Germain.

Today, in the state of vestiges, the site of the castle of Saint-Germain offers picnic tables and explanatory panels which make it possible to appreciate the result of numerous archaeological researches.

Continue carefully following the yellow markings to reach the outskirts of the town of Saint-Rambert. The medieval space of the old castle of Cornillon stands above the town and the Albarine river.
Nothing remains today. On the site, reconstructions of weapons and panels recount the life of the Middle Ages. NB: site difficult to access. Carefully cross the horse meadow to a small barrier.

Last stop at the building of Luisandre. Overlooking the Château des Allymes, the site offers a splendid panorama. If there is not much left on site, explanatory panels give an idea of ​​the history of the place.

In conclusion, the circuit of the 4 castles invites you to travel to the time of the Middle Ages, following a hiking route with wild landscapes, punctuated with heritage. There is no doubt that this walk will have something to delight you. These remains and castles are just waiting for your good humor and sportsmanship. This fitness walk is recommended for anyone looking for an outing in nature, combining physical activity and discovery of a forgotten heritage.