Meyrieu-Les-Étangs: Ponds, Hiking Trails and History

Meyrieu-Les-Étangs brings together a landscape shaped by ponds, hiking trails, and buildings whose history can be traced through specific names and dates. If you are planning a hotel stay, you can focus on nature, outdoor activities, or architecture. The following places and key details offer several starting points, from the geological basis of the ponds to a circular trail with a stated distance and elevation gain.

Ponds and Landscape

Hills, valleys, and plains define the landscape of Meyrieu-Les-Étangs. The clay-rich, impermeable soil favors the presence of around 30 ponds. The oldest ponds were created in the 13th century under the direction of monks from Bonnevaux Abbey. The pond landscape therefore combines a feature favored by the soil with a specific history of how it came to be.

Montjoux adds another perspective on nature: the Espace Naturel Sensible covers 52 hectares and lies between Saint-Jean de Bournay and Meyrieu-Les-Étangs. Its natural surroundings offer opportunities for fishing. Alongside the commune's ponds, you can therefore choose to explore a designated natural area and enjoy another nature-related activity during your stay.

Hiking with Key Details

The Plateau du Terrier circular trail can be described using several key details: the loop is 11.2 kilometers long, has 200 meters of positive elevation gain, and is rated Blue – moderate. Distance, ascent, and rating describe different aspects of the hike and can help you plan. Along the way, the walk offers panoramic views of the first foothills of the Alps and the valley's ponds. The circular trail is open daily year-round and free to access; check conditions before setting out.

Near La Plate, a hike in Meyrieu-Les-Étangs crosses the Gervonde. This river feeds numerous ponds. The trail description thus links a specific point along the hike with the waterway that contributes to the pond landscape.

Church, Bell Tower, and Festival

In the hamlet of La Roche, the Church of Saint Clair, dedicated to Saint Clair, was built between 1874 and 1879. Its floor plan is shaped like a Latin cross, and it is built in the Romanesque style. The term “Latin cross” describes the shape of the floor plan, while “Romanesque” refers to the architectural style. Both details offer different ways of understanding the church's architecture.

The surviving lower section of the Boucharin bell tower was converted into a funerary chapel. The name SAINT MARTIN and the year 1684 are engraved on the stone lintel. Here, the conversion of the tower section and a specific inscription come together: one describes the new function of the surviving structure, while the other gives a name and a year.

The Les Arts en herbe festival is for children and adults. The program includes performances, workshops, games, readings, and opportunities to meet. For its 18th edition in 2026, Meyrieu-Les-Étangs is one of the twelve host communes. If you would like to include a festival visit in your travel plans, check the event dates before your trip.

Discover more destinations: Montferrat, La Morte, Le Péage-De-Roussillon, Villard-Reymond, Allemond, Rives, Dolomieu, La Motte-D'aveillans.

Go to the regional travel overview: Isere.