Culoz: History, Heritage and Nature

Culoz brings together a range of travel interests: explore its cultural history on an easy historic walking tour and at the Maison du Patrimoine, or take a stroll along the Rhône riverbanks to enjoy nature. There is also the challenging hike to Grand Colombier. You can plan your trip around whether you are most interested in history, riverside scenery or a demanding hike.

History from Prehistory to Automotive Engineering

People lived in the Marais de Lavours after the Würm glaciers retreated, during the Mesolithic period around 8,000 years ago. Bone finds from a rock shelter in Culoz provide evidence of this early settlement. The Parcours historique de Culoz also covers this early period: the easy historic walking tour passes through different eras, from the Mesolithic to Roman times.

Another stop on the tour focuses on an invention by the Serpollet brothers: their steam engine, which was installed in one of the first automobiles in 1888. This takes the historical perspective from the Mesolithic to a specific chapter in early automotive engineering.

The Maison du Patrimoine is housed in one of Culoz’s oldest buildings, a 16th-century structure. It presents the town’s history from the Mesolithic to the present day. Topics include the Serpollet brothers, Henry Dunant, Gertrude Stein and Jules Giguet; the house also displays mineralogical and archaeological collections. Its broad historical scope complements the walking tour, which covers periods up to Roman times. Visiting arrangements may vary, so check in advance.

Old Town and Château de Montvéran

The Château de Montvéran was built in 1316 by Pierre de Luyrieu on the Montvéran rock. Apart from restoration work and a few changes associated with the French Revolution, it has remained largely intact. The Office de Tourisme Bugey Sud offers guided tours of Culoz’s old town and the château. As dates may vary, it is advisable to check tour availability before your visit.

A Stroll Along the Rhône and a Hike

The Promenade au bord du Rhône passes the Culoz railway viaduct, as well as the Étang de la RICA and the Étang du Comte. At the two natural ponds, you can spot carp, pike and trout, as well as wading birds and swans. This route focuses on waterside scenery and wildlife watching.

When choosing a route, it helps to know the difference in difficulty: the historic walking tour is easy, while the hike to Grand Colombier from Culoz is challenging. The hike is accessible from Culoz station on the Lyon–Geneva railway line. Timetables may vary, so check the connection to suit your plans. If you are looking for a hotel in Culoz, the focus of your stay—town history, a riverside stroll or a hike—can help guide your travel plans.

Discover more destinations: Ars-Sur-Formans, Cormoranche-sur-Saône, Dompierre-sur-Chalaronne, Hauteville-Lompnes, Coligny, Vescours, Bâgé-La-Ville, Pont-De-Vaux.

For an overview of the wider area: Ain.