Gorges de la Balme, Protected natural canyon in La Balme, France.
Gorges de la Balme is a protected canyon between the regions of Ain and Savoie, featuring steep limestone walls rising over 200 meters. The valley stretches across several kilometers and creates a dramatic geological passage with narrow sections and wider areas.
The Rhone River carved these gorges over thousands of years, cutting a natural route between two mountain ranges. This slow geological process shaped the valley visible today.
The name Balme refers to a cave or hollow in the local language, reflecting the geological features visible today. The surrounding communities have jointly protected this space because it belongs to their shared landscape.
Visitors can find hiking trails of varying difficulty winding through the valley at different elevations. Sturdy footwear is recommended and it's wise to allow enough time to explore the different routes at a comfortable pace.
The area is home to specialized plant and animal species that thrive only in limestone environments, perfectly adapted to the steep slopes. These rare species make the place particularly interesting for nature observers.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
Chartreuse de Pierre-Châtel
272 m
Fort-les-Bancs
638 m
Château de la Dragonnière
2.6 km
Haut-Rhône de la Chautagne aux chutes de Virignin
3.3 km
Pont suspendu de Yenne
2 km
Maison forte de Cummugnin
3.7 km
Chapelle Notre-Dame-de-la-Montagne
1.8 km
Bagneux cup-marked stone
4.5 km
Rosset cup-marked stone
4.7 km
Église Saint-Pierre de Parves
3.9 km
Église Saint-Blaise de Virignin
1.3 km
Église Saint-Pierre de Nattages
3.8 km
Église Notre-Dame d'Yenne
2.5 km
Église Saint-Michel de Brens
2.7 km
Église Saint-Maurice de Traize
4.5 km
Croix de Chevru
1.6 km
War memorial of Parves
4 km
Église Saint-Maurice de La Balme
673 m
Town hall of Parves
4.1 km
Town hall of Brens
2.6 km
Town hall of Virignin
1.8 km
Château de Marnix
2.6 km
Town hall of Nattages
3.2 km
War memorial of Nattages
3.2 km
War memorial of Brens
2.6 km
Château Bochard
4.3 km
Grave of Georges Girerd
5.1 km
War memorial of Virignin
1.7 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes