Domarin: Walking Trails and Local History

For a trip to Domarin, it is useful to distinguish between two themes: walking and hiking opportunities, and the architectural and local history associated with Saint Roch, the château, and several memorial sites. The route descriptions range from a walking path on the heights to a precisely measured hike. This can help you decide what to focus on during your stay.

Walking Paths and Hikes

The Chemin de Maratot runs along the heights of Domarin and is designated as a walking path for nature and outdoor activities. The path was completely redesigned on the municipality’s initiative and is open to everyone. It leads via the montée de l’Epallud to the Plateau de l’Epallud. The route starts beneath an avenue lined with walnut trees, runs through the forest, and then continues into the municipality of Maubec. This describes both the access to the plateau and notable sections of the path.

The hike “Randonnée pédestre en montant sur le plateau” is listed as 6.5 kilometres long, with 230 metres of elevation gain and a duration of two hours; it is rated moderate. Yellow markers on the “Promenade et Randonnée” trail system mark the way. The route listing was updated on 28 January 2025 and notes a car park, year-round access, and a 600-metre walk from the “Maladière Branly” public transport stop. Trail details may change due to maintenance or conditions, so check access conditions before setting out.

The local hiking association La RanDomarinoise also offers outings of various durations: it organises day trips on Sundays, as well as weekends lasting two, three, or four days, depending on the calendar. On average, there are two outings per month. Guests may join a day trip without becoming members in advance. The seasonal programme depends in part on the weather: from January to March, it includes some snowshoe hikes; in spring and autumn, hikes on country lanes and in the foothills. In summer, the programme often features hikes in the Alps with a high-mountain character. Check the association’s programme for specific weekend dates and weather-dependent activities.

The “Sur les hauteurs de Bourgoin” route passes through Domarin and then continues to Saint-Alban-Roche. The route listing was updated on 21 June 2022; check trail conditions before making specific plans.

Church, Château, and Memorial Sites

Saint Roch is a small cemetery church with a short nave, side chapels arranged in the shape of a cross, a three-sided choir, and an adjoining octagonal bell tower. The dates in its history refer to different events: in 1632, the de Neyrieu family donated the site of the present-day church. At the time, the family owned the Château de Domarin and much of the municipality. In 1784, Saint Roch became the patron saint of Domarin parish; the present-day church was built in 1858. If you plan to visit the interior, check access arrangements in advance.

The Château de Domarin brings together traces of the past and descriptions of the present-day building. Traces of a medieval fortified house remain; the former moats have disappeared. The château today is a rectangular residence with four storeys, two asymmetrical pavilion roofs, a small wooden and zinc bell tower, and bull’s-eye dormers. It is not open to visitors; check its visitor status before planning a visit.

The Croix Saint Roch stands on the montée de la Reytière, at the exit from Domarin in the direction of Maubec. It bears an inscription dated 6 September 1958, as well as an IHS monogram. The war memorial is next to the church, on a small square by the cemetery. It consists of an obelisk on a cube-shaped base made of light-coloured limestone.

You can therefore weigh up the specific walking and hiking options against the local history when planning your trip. If you are looking for a hotel for a trip to Domarin, this distinction can help you decide what to focus on during your stay.

Discover more destinations: Saint-Hilaire-du-Rosier, La Salle-En-Beaumont, La Morte, Mizoën, Monestier-De-Clermont, Saint-Nizier-Du-Moucherotte, Izeaux, Sillans

For the broader travel overview: Isere.