Attractions and Places To See around Sainte-Croix - Top 15
Best attractions and places to see around Sainte-Croix include a variety of natural and historical sites. This region offers a mix of rural landscapes, cycle paths, and culturally significant settlements. Visitors can explore areas known for their preserved architecture and local markets. The area provides opportunities for outdoor activities and cultural discovery.
Best attractions and places to see around Sainte-Croix
- The most popular attractions is Voie Bressane, a cycle way that follows a former railway line. It is accessible…
Last updated: July 1, 2026
Louhans
Highlight • Settlement
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Grande Rue Arcades
Highlight • Historical Site
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Saint-Pierre
Highlight • Religious Site
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Voie Bressane
Highlight • Cycleway
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La Voie Bressane
Highlight • Cycleway
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Along the approximately 400-meter-long Grande Rue, 157 arcades stretch, most of which date back to the 15th century. These arcades not only provide protection from the elements but also lend the street its distinctive charm. The houses above them present a variety of architectural styles, from medieval half-timbering to Renaissance facades with decorative elements such as niches and medallions. Over the centuries, particularly between the 17th and 19th centuries, many of these buildings were expanded or remodeled, but the arcade structure was always preserved.
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The church's origins date back to 878, when King Louis the Stammerer granted the priory of Louhans to the Abbey of Saint-Philibert de Tournus. The current structure was built after a devastating fire in 1370 that destroyed the town and the church. Reconstruction began in 1492 in the Gothic style, with the church being built of red brick with stone buttresses. In the 18th century, the Notre-Dame Chapel was added, creating the present appearance of two adjoining buildings.
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Double church from the 14th and 18th centuries
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Beautiful medieval houses with arcades
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The Voie Bressane is a beautiful cycle path that vaguely follows the Blaine valley. It is a pleasant route to take to avoid traffic jams.
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Louhans, whose real name is Louhans-Châteaurenaud, hosts one of the largest poultry markets in France every Monday. It is the success of Bresse chicken which undoubtedly earned it this notoriety. Its main street is proud of its numerous shopping arcades, but Louhans is also a very lively town which offers a well-stocked cultural season each year with one show per month.
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The Bresse route, which follows a former railway line converted into a cycle path, is accessible to all cyclists. The Bresse region is known, among other things, for its rural landscapes, its unspoiled countryside, its pretty villages, and its famous white chickens with blue feet.
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Actually, only the main route, the "Grande Rue", through the middle of the town is of interest. There are said to be 157 arcades with the old houses from the 15th century on both sides of the street. The third largest market (since 1269) in France takes place in Louhans (about 6400 inhabitants) every Monday. In addition to food, clothes and other goods, animals are also offered, in particular a poultry market with Bresse chickens.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best outdoor activities to do around Sainte-Croix?
The region around Sainte-Croix is ideal for cycling. You can explore the Voie Bressane, an easy cycle path that follows a former railway line, offering quiet routes through nature. Another option is La Voie Bressane, which vaguely follows the Blaine valley, providing a pleasant way to experience the rural landscapes. For more specific routes, you can find various cycling tours, MTB trails, and running trails in the area.
Are there any historical sites or cultural attractions to visit in Sainte-Croix?
Yes, the town of Louhans is a significant historical and cultural hub. It's famous for its main street, the Grande Rue Arcades, which features 157 arcades with houses dating back to the 15th century. You can also visit the Saint-Pierre church, a double church with origins from 878 AD, rebuilt in Gothic style after 1370.
What kind of markets can I find in the Sainte-Croix region?
The town of Louhans hosts one of the largest poultry markets in France every Monday. This market is renowned for its Bresse chickens and offers a wide variety of food, clothes, and other goods.
Are there family-friendly activities around Sainte-Croix?
Absolutely. The Voie Bressane cycle path is described as easy and accessible for all ages, making it a great option for families to enjoy nature and beautiful landscapes together. Similarly, La Voie Bressane is also a family-friendly cycle route.
Are there any wheelchair accessible paths or attractions?
Yes, the Grande Rue Arcades in Louhans is noted as wheelchair accessible. Its arcaded structure provides protection and a unique historical experience for all visitors.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Sainte-Croix?
Visitors particularly appreciate the quiet and well-maintained cycle paths like the Voie Bressane, which offers beautiful natural and rural landscapes. The historic charm of Louhans, especially its arcaded main street and lively market, is also a major draw.
Can I find easy hiking trails near Sainte-Croix?
While the area is primarily known for its cycle paths, you can find various running trails that are suitable for easy walks. For example, the 'Running loop from Stade de Bram' is an easy 4.9 km route. Many sections of the cycle paths, such as the Voie Bressane, are also suitable for leisurely strolls.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see in the Sainte-Croix region?
The Sainte-Croix region is characterized by its rural landscapes and unspoiled countryside. Cycle paths like the Voie Bressane offer views of charming villages and the natural beauty of the Bresse region, known for its distinctive white chickens.
Are there any hidden gems or unique spots to discover?
The historical architecture of Louhans, particularly its 15th-century arcaded houses along the Grande Rue, offers a unique glimpse into medieval life. The Saint-Pierre church, with its double structure and ancient origins, is another distinctive site.
What is the best way to explore the region's cycle paths?
The cycle paths, such as the Voie Bressane and La Voie Bressane, are well-maintained and offer a pleasant experience. You can find detailed routes and maps for cycling, including easy loops like 'Voie Bressane – Voie Bressane loop from Louhans' (20.9 km), on komoot.
Can I find long-distance cycling routes around Sainte-Croix?
Yes, there are longer cycling routes available. For example, the 'La Vallière – Voie Bressane loop from Louhans' is a moderate 53.7 km route, and the 'La Voie Bressane – Voie Bressane loop from Sornay' is an easy 35.4 km MTB trail, both offering extensive exploration of the region. You can find more options in the cycling guide.
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