Pays des couleurs
Pays des couleurs
The Rhône flows gently past the tip of the Crémieu plateau, creating a series of small lakes and bathing the area in that unique light that inspired Claudel's pen and the painters of Morestel and Optevoz.
About 50 km from Grenoble, La Bâtie Montgascon is the first stage of this tour. This village has been a centre for silk weaving since the 19th century. The "Maison des Tisserands" recounts the history of textiles in the town and is open to visitors.
A little further on, stop off in Corbelin and visit the museum of François Guiguet, a portrait painter from the Lyons school known as the "painter of souls".
Stop off for some fun at the Walibi amusement park at Les Avenières, with rides and shows for all the family.
Now head towards Morestel, a medieval town with a rich history, surrounded by landscapes that were well loved by some illustrious 19th-century painters. In the town, visit the "Maison du pays des couleurs" proposing a slide show and showcase of local products, and the medieval tower, the keep of the former castle.
Take a detour via Brangues. This village is close to the Rhône and is indissociable from French literature: it inspired Stendhal for his novel "The Red and the Black", and Claudel lived there for 27 years.
Visit the grounds of the chateau and Paul Claudel's tomb.
Last stage of the tour: Montalieu. You will see a number of stone quarries along the Upper Rhone.
The "Maison de la pierre et du ciment" bears witness to the history and production techniques of one of France's major quarrying and cement-producing regions. Close by, the Vallée Bleue recreation area offers beaches, water sports, a little train and cruises on the Upper Rhône.
Return to Grenoble via the N75.
Worth seeing:
Nature trail and bird sanctuary at Courtenay
The Moulin d'Arche mill at Bouvesse-Quirieu
Ostrich farm at Vézeronce
Fitilieu zoo
Worth tasting:
The local wine, Vin des Balmes Dauphinoises
