Around the Castle of Virieu

ROUTE

From the church, you pace up and down through the streets of Virieu, a medieval village built at the foot of its castle. The picturesque charm of the village centre can be seen in the typical Dauphiné houses, the murals frescos recounting the history of the village, the Place du Trêve painted by the impressionist Jongkind and the wooden covered market hall with its gable roof made of tortoiseshell tiles. A map of the village is available from the town hall.

Once you reach Le Trêve, head up towards the Château de Virieu either by the road or along a shady path (not recommended for mountain bikes or horses). You can visit the castle and the Galoche museum, which traces the history of this shoe, a cousin of the clog (depending on opening hours).

Then, as far as the Croix de l'Homnézy, there are unobstructed views over the valleys and mountain ranges.

Continue upwards pass the hunters' hut to reach Les Platières. Finally, you return to Virieu, overlooking the Bourbre valley.

WAYMARKING AND SIGNPOSTING

From the Virieu-sur-Bourbre SNCF station, follow the yellow signs to the village of Virieu (alternative starting point - car park in front of the church).

From the church in Virieu, follow the yellow markings and the following signposts:

> Le Trêve (2 options to go up to the castle : by the path (pass in front of the paddle wheel) or by the road (which goes up on your right at the Trêve crossroads)) > Château de Virieu > Les Cardelles > Croix de l'Homnezy > Les Platières > Les Tournelles > Le Trêve > Return to the village center parking lot or to the train station.

Please note: add 2.2km (1.1km one way) if starting from the SNCF station.