Ferme en Vallière

The Haut Jura has plenty of sporty options for active bods; try the walks, hikes and mountain biking trails right from the site. You can also explore on horseback, with treks in the Jura foothills available from the equestrian centre in Chalain (20 minutes’ drive), or have a go at kayaking and paddleboarding on the broad meanders of the River Ain (gear hire is 20 minutes’ drive), keeping your eye out for local birdlife like mute swans and little grebes. There are more watersports available on Lac de Chalain (25 minutes), where you can soak up the sun on sandy beaches, cool off in the clear water and hire paddle boats to explore the shoreline. If you’d rather stay on dry land, rent scooters to whizz down forest tracks circumnavigating the lake. The whole family can have more fun in the fresh air on zipwires and treetop nets at Montciel Aventure (15 minutes). Quieter family-friendly pursuits include discovering the animal sculptures hidden away in the Forêt Fantastique (10 minutes), and the quirky exhibits and colourful advertising posters at La Maison de la Vache Qui Rit (20 minutes) are always guaranteed to raise a smile.