Saint-Alban: History, Wine and Trails

Saint-Alban brings together historic sites, wine experiences and outdoor activities. For planning purposes, it is helpful to know their exact locations: the remains of the former church lie above the Cerdon Valley, the Circuit des vignes à Cerdon starts in Cerdon, and Balades Apéro Sunset Dînatoire is offered at an address in Saint-Alban, while the experience is associated with the Cerdon vineyards.

History and Landscape

The medieval remains of the former Saint-Alban church sit on rocks above the Cerdon Valley. From the former church site, you can see Cerdon, the vineyards and the Culaz waterfall. The Saint-Alban priory complex was built in the 12th century. The Château de Jean de la Balme in Mortaray dates from 1376; the ruins of the medieval Château de Bôches are associated with the Thoires family. These sites offer different historical reference points: a construction period, a specific year and a family association.

Walking Trails and Outdoor Activities

The Circuit des vignes à Cerdon is a moderately difficult 7.4-kilometre loop trail. It starts in Cerdon and leads to the ruins of the former Saint-Alban church. The route description, updated in 2021, says the loop is freely accessible year-round; check the route details before setting out. The Saint-Alban climbing crag has routes for different ability levels.

Balades Apéro Sunset Dînatoire, described for the 2026 season, includes self-guided walks through the Cerdon vineyards, followed by an evening at a temporary bar overlooking the sunset. Three routes are suitable for beginners and each takes 45 minutes. The offering includes three wines produced by Daniel and a platter of cured meats and cheeses. The seasonal programme and menu details may change; check the dates and current offering before your visit.

The different planning details can help you choose between the walking options: the Circuit is described in terms of its loop format, distance and moderate difficulty, while the three Balades routes have stated durations and are suitable for beginners. This lets you compare the activities using the criteria given for each.

Breweries and Wine Tastings

The Brasserie Grange Noire in Saint-Alban makes pure-malt beers that are neither pasteurised nor filtered and undergo secondary fermentation on the yeast in the bottle. The brewery offers direct sales, tours and tastings by appointment. Arrange your visit in advance.

Domaine de l'Eperon is located on a rocky promontory above Cerdon and the Ain Valley. At the tasting room, visitors can sample two cuvées of sparkling Cerdon rosé made from Gamay and Poulsard grapes, as well as white and red wines. Visits are by reservation only. As tasting availability may change, check in advance.

Discover more destinations: Sermoyer, Vongnes, Échenevex, Bourg-En-Bresse, Châtillon-Sur-Chalaronne, Ornex, Chazey-sur-Ain, Corbonod.

For the broader travel overview: Ain.