Activities around the estate – Discover the Dombes

A region to discover throughout the seasons

Domaine de la Fontaine is located in the heart of the Dombes, a unique region with landscapes shaped by its many ponds, its preserved nature and its heritage.

From the Domaine, you can enjoy a quiet day around the pool or explore the villages, markets, birds, golf courses and local cuisine.

Here are some of our favorite experiences to share with family or friends.

The Dombes Estate

Near Domaine de la Fontaine, Domaine de la Dombes offers a multitude of outdoor activities for young and old alike.

Tree climbing, bike rides, pedal cars, mini-golf, catch-and-release fishing, boat rental, animal-related activities or escape quests: everyone will be able to find an activity to their liking.

Families will particularly appreciate the treetop adventure courses adapted for different ages, the fun activities, and the animal encounters. The park notably offers a Baby course accessible from age 2 and several treetop courses, as well as a large zip line crossing the pond.

An excellent idea to dedicate a day to the children… while the adults also enjoy the natural setting of the Dombes.

THE BIRD PARK

In Villars-les-Dombes

It is impossible to stay in Dombes without discovering the Bird Park.

Spanning 35 hectares, the park offers the opportunity to observe over 250 bird species and is one of the region's must-see attractions. An outing particularly suited to families, it will also appeal to nature and birdwatching enthusiasts.

THE DOMBES BY BIKE

The Dombes region is wonderfully explored by bicycle, along small country roads and ponds.

From Domaine de la Fontaine, set off by bike through the typical landscapes of the region, between ponds, meadows and villages.

A gentle way to discover the Dombes region and observe its natural and ornithological richness along the way.

CHÂTILLON-SUR-CHALARONNE

A charming town a few kilometers from the Domaine

Stroll through the streets of Châtillon-sur-Chalaronne , discover its half-timbered houses, small shops and restaurants, then enjoy its famous Saturday morning market under the market halls.

The Châtillon market is particularly renowned: it was voted Most Beautiful Market in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes in 2018 and is among the must-see markets in the region.

Our advice: plan a morning in Châtillon and take the time to have lunch there.

DOMBES, GOLF LAND

With several golf courses in the region, the Dombes is a particularly popular destination for golfers.

Among the courses to discover, Golf & Hôtel du Domaine du Gouverneur and Golf du Clou offer two very different experiences in the heart of the Dombes landscapes.

The territory has a total of five golf courses , including Domaine du Gouverneur, La Sorelle, UGolf Mionnay, Le Clou and La Bresse.

A great idea for organizing a stay with friends around golf, while enjoying the comfort and wide open spaces of the Domaine.

HERITAGE & VILLAGES OF CHARACTER

Châtillon-sur-Chalaronne, Pérouges, Bourg-en-Bresse…

The region also offers wonderful cultural and heritage discoveries.

In Bourg-en-Bresse, the Royal Monastery of Brou is a must-see for history and architecture enthusiasts.

And for a timeless getaway, set off to discover the medieval city of Pérouges, one of the region's iconic historic villages.

Other discoveries are also worth a visit, such as the Notre-Dame des Dombes Abbey or Ars-sur-Formans.

THE GASTRONOMY OF THE DOMBES

A region that can also be discovered through its cuisine.

Dombes is a land of gastronomy and traditions.

During your stay, don't miss the local specialties: frogs, pond fish and carp goujonnettes , not forgetting the local produce and regional delicacies.

We would be delighted to recommend our favorite restaurants and local producers to discover.

And if you prefer, do nothing…

A day at the pool, a game of pétanque, an aperitif in the garden, a walk around the ponds or a long dinner all together.

The Dombes region can be discovered, but it can also be simply enjoyed from the Domaine de la Fontaine.