Just a stone’s throw from Lyon, take a trip through this time-space rift with a visit to this small town with a big character. Half-timbered houses, fortified ramparts, local craft stores and, of course, one of France’s most beautiful markets. Head for Châtillon-sur-Chalaronne!
Châtillon-sur-Chalaronne, the “Ain’croyable cité de la Dombes”.
It’s not as busy as Beaune, Clunyou or Pérouges. And yet, “l’Ain’croyable cité de la Dombes” lives up to its nickname. Here, the town exudes authenticity – a place where people have lived a long time, and where heritage has been preserved in stone and tradition alike. After all, the city’s past goes back a long way: it was a strategic crossroads for the Dukes of Savoy as early as the 15th century.
The first thing that strikes you is the architecture. A multitude of beautiful brick facades, flower-filled footbridges spanning the Chalaronne, cobbled streets, not to mention squares and historic monuments. Ancient fortified castle, covered market, hospice, not forgetting the house of Saint Vincent de Paul (recognized as early as 1885 as the protector of all charitable works) and even an apothecary: the historic center is a veritable open-air museum. But if there’s a queen here, it’s the flower! Omnipresent on every street, they are even in the spotlight in September at the plant market, which attracts enthusiasts and the curious from all over Europe every year.
One of the most beautiful markets in France
As with Crémieux, the market takes center stage. Every Saturday, it’s here that one of France’s finest and, without doubt, the region’s most prestigious markets is held. Walnuts, cheese, fish, strawberries, cherries, asparagus, apples, poultry, meat and charcuterie… these are just some of the items to be found in passers-by’ baskets. Situated equidistant from the Beaujolais, Bugey, Bresse and Jura regions, the Châtillon-sur-Chalaronne market owes its reputation to the variety of produce on offer.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QLAJxSeP3lQ
And what can we say about the Halle, which crowns this beautiful blend of flavours and smells? 80 metres long and 20 metres wide, it’s clearly the emblem of the town. Listed as a historic monument, for over 500 years the hall has been the scene of the gatherings of producers, craftsmen, regulars and the curious, who have been meeting up for quite a few Saturday mornings now. There’s also an organic market featuring local producers every Wednesday morning, and one of the most prestigious pottery markets in the world will be held on Sunday, December 14 from 9am to 6pm. We’re sure you’ll be delighted with your visit to Châtillonnais!