Mountain bike trail - The round of the ponds

ROUTE:

From the car park along the RD 1006 or from Saint-André le Gaz station, head towards ‘Bois Chaboud’.

Once past this crossroads, a wide path leads you to Lac Saint-Félix, a designated Sensitive Natural Area (250m round trip to see the view from the lakeside). This natural glacial lake is a great place to spot the agile frog, as well as numerous birds and butterflies.

The rest of the route alternates between small roads and footpaths, with the exception of a 200-metre stretch on the D145 to La Batie Montgascon. Look out for Château de Renodel, built in the 19th century with 3 main buildings, including a high round tower topped by a pepperpot roof. After another 200m on the D145, head towards ‘Château de Donat’, where you can admire its brick tower.

You will then arrive at the Malseroud pond. This sensitive natural area is ideal for birdwatching (wild coot, great crested grebe, grey heron), dragonflies, frogs and more. It is possible to walk around the pond (20min). Dogs must be kept on a lead.

Continue your tour through the village of Fitilieu. You then follow the wide, flat paths of the Fitilieu marshes and pass close to several ponds before returning to Saint-André le Gaz. You will also pass a number of pheasant farms. A tunnel allows you to cross the railway line on the way back.

This route can also start at Fitilieu.

Beware, this route is very pleasant in summer, but the paths through the marshes are often muddy in the wet season (November to April).

SIGNS AND MARKINGS :

Follow the yellow markings and signs:

ST-ANDRÉ LE GAZ > Bois Chaboud > le Bout du Lac > les Vaudrines

> Laye > Avolin > Château de Renodel > Château de Donat > les Bruniaux > Fitilieu > Château de Donat > Étang de Refeuille > Bois Chaboud > ST-ANDRÉ LE GAZ