Domaine de Sainte-Croix: a nature escape for hikers, 30 km from Lyon
Treat yourself to a nature break just 30 km from Lyon, in an authentic, friendly setting! The Domaine de Sainte-Croix, in the village of Sainte-Croix (01120), is a true gem nestled on the doorstep of the Dombes. This exceptional site, run by Vacances Léo Lagrange, a pioneer of social and solidarity tourism, invites you to enjoy a holiday experience combining relaxation, discovery and outdoor activities.
A haven of greenery ideal for hiking
Domaine de Sainte-Croix is an ideal destination for lovers of hiking. With varied landscapes of forests, hills and picturesque little villages, the area offers a wealth of trails for all levels. Discover routes through the heart of the Dombes, famous for its 1,000 ponds, and immerse yourself completely in an unspoilt environment.
Comfortable accommodation: welcoming rooms for stays with family, with your club or on your own.
Local cuisine: treat yourself to dishes that showcase regional produce from the Lyon area and the Dombes.
Dedicated event spaces: the Domaine has 4 equipped seminar rooms, perfect for briefings, talks or workshops.
Varied activities: as well as hiking, discover activities such as cultural visits, nature workshops and gourmet getaways.
Our best hikers and our teams have put together something to get your legs warmed up, on routes that harmoniously combine local character, scenery and technical challenge.
11 km
Côtière de Pérouges trail
Starting from Meximieux railway station
This 11 km hike, starting from Meximieux railway station, invites you to discover the area’s varied landscapes of forest, meadows and sweeping views. You will follow the Côtière de Pérouges, a gentle and picturesque ridge, before arriving close to Pérouges, one of France’s most beautiful villages. An ideal route for immersing yourself in the countryside around Domaine de Sainte-Croix.
The 12 km Bois de Béligneux route is a lovely way to immerse yourself in the typical landscapes of the Côtière du Rhône, close to Domaine de Sainte-Croix. You will follow shaded paths, come across magnificent viewpoints and pass through historic sites such as Béligneux’s 15th-century chapel. Along the way, you can catch a glimpse of Lake Neyton, now a leisure area but once exploited for its iron-rich waters until 1914. Ideal for an outing with family or friends, this hike combines nature and local heritage.
If you are looking for an easy, immersive waterside walk, Vernange pond is the perfect destination, ideal for families and nature lovers in search of peace and quiet. The trail takes you through a bucolic setting where the reflections of the Monthieux, Vernange and Grange Volet ponds accompany your walk. Along the way, take time to observe the local wildlife, especially the many species of birds that inhabit these wetlands. Remember to bring your binoculars to make the most of the show from the Grange Volet bird-watching hide.
By choosing Domaine de Sainte-Croix, you are supporting an organisation that champions social and solidarity-based tourism. Vacances Léo Lagrange works to make holidays accessible to all, while respecting and enhancing the environment and local communities.
11 km
