Lhuis: Nature, Heritage and Craftsmanship

Lhuis combines a distinctive lakeside landscape with religious history, medieval heritage and hands-on craft experiences. Lac de Millieu and the Marais du Vernay are highlights of the natural environment; Eglise Beata Maria de Lhuis and La Pavia represent different aspects of the area’s heritage. Workshops and insights into winegrowing and food production add to the range of themes you can use to shape your stay.

Glacial Lake, Wetland and Wildlife

Lac de Millieu is a 19.6-hectare glacial lake in Lhuis and is part of the Bas-Bugey Natura 2000 site. The Marais du Vernay, a wetland with damp meadows, lies beside the lake. Together, the lake and marsh form two neighboring but distinct natural areas.

Thirty-three dragonfly species have been recorded at Lac de Millieu, including three protected species. Future surveys may update the species records. Birdwatching is also possible: the three protected species recorded at the lake include the purple heron, reed warbler and common snipe. Sightings are seasonal and not guaranteed.

Trail and Viewpoint at Lac de Millieu

A hiking trail crosses the Lac de Millieu area between the lake and the Marais du Vernay. Trail conditions may vary by season. Above the lake, there is a viewpoint with an information panel and an audio game. Both explain the glacial lake and its drainage ditches, adding context to the landscape before you.

Religious History and Architectural Heritage

Eglise Beata Maria de Lhuis stands on the site of a Gallo-Roman sanctuary and bears witness to more than 2,000 years of religious worship. Its attic also serves a special purpose: it is protected as a roost for two bat species. La Pavia adds to the architectural heritage as a fortified house dating from the 15th century.

The Visite contée sonore de Lhuis explores visible traces of the medieval past on a free, app-guided walk. You can take the tour independently; check whether the app is available before your visit.

Crafts, Wine and Local Produce

At Poterie de Lhuis, adults and children can shape, carve and create their own pieces in hands-on clay workshops with instruction. As dates and booking conditions may change, check them in advance.

Domaine Trichon is a family-run winery now in its third generation, cultivating 13 hectares of vineyards organically. For groups, the winery can arrange a vineyard walk, a cellar visit and a tasting by reservation.

Chèvrerie du Naray makes artisan cheeses, including goat’s milk tommes and flavored varieties. The selection may vary by season. The farm also offers educational workshops about the milk cycle, covering pasture raising, milking, cheesemaking, animal care and egg collecting. Workshop availability depends on the season and the operator; ask in advance what is on offer.

Au Millieu des fruits du Bugey sells processed fruit, bee products and seasonal fresh fruit directly from the farm; visits with tastings are possible by prior arrangement only. These local production experiences offer different perspectives, from processing milk and fruit to organic winegrowing. Choosing which of these themes to focus on can give your trip a clear direction.

Discover more destinations: Saint-Jean-Le-Vieux, Chevillard, Poncin, Montrevel-En-Bresse, Ambérieux-en-Dombes, Saint-Didier-De-Formans, Vescours, Segny.

For the regional travel overview: Ain.