Aire de Châtillon-en-Michaille

Châtillon-en-Michaille (Ain, France)

Châtillon-en-Michaille, now part of the new commune of Valserhône since 2019, is located in the far northeast of Ain, near the Swiss border. The village stretches at the bottom of the valley, between Jura hills and plateaus, offering direct access to the gorges and transport links toward Geneva. The atmosphere remains rural, with traces of a rural and industrial past linked to the Valserine valley.

Patrimoine et histoire

The area bears witness to a local history rooted in cross-border exchanges and craftsmanship. There are traditional stone houses and some industrial remains related to mills and former valley factories. The memory of the recent municipal merger with Bellegarde-sur-Valserine and Lancrans is visible in the organization of the territory and services.

Nature et paysages

The hollow of the valley offers contrasting panoramas: rocky gorges, deciduous forests and meadows. The proximity of the Pertes de la Valserine and the Rhône’s course creates walking sites appreciated for their cliffs and shaded trails. The Jura reliefs, easy to access, invite discovery of cross-border views.

Activités de plein air

The area is suitable for hiking, mountain biking and river fishing. Local routes allow family loops or longer hikes toward the Jura plateaus. The border location also makes day trips to Switzerland for alpine hikes easy.

Gastronomie et vins

Local cuisine highlights products from the Jura massif and Bugey: aged cheeses (you will often find Comté or Morbier nearby) and wines from the Bugey appellation. Regional markets offer charcuterie, honey and farm products.

À ne pas manquer

• Pertes de la Valserine : gorge and interpretation trails along the river.
• Fort l’Écluse : nearby fortification, viewpoint over the valley (short distance).
• Centre de Valserhône / Bellegarde : services, station and weekly market.
• Routes des vins du Bugey : tastings and cellars nearby.
• Randonnées jurassiennes : loops accessible from the village.