Ain is a department very rich in landscape diversity and remarkable natural environments. In 2021, more than 13,000 hectares will be labeled “Sensitive Natural Space” creating a vast network of sites representative of the natural wealth of Ain, and in particular the Ain Valley and Chambod-Merpuis Island. To protect our sites and limit your impact during your travels, we invite you to read and respect as much as possible this “Responsible Adventure Code”, very largely inspired by “The Others”. As you can see, most of these rules come from common sense, and above all from a sincere love of nature. So if like us, you want #happiness to be #sustainable, we wish you a great discovery!
THE “SENSITIVE NATURAL SPACE” PERIMETER »
It is made up of a mosaic of habitats hosting a diversity of exceptional species (wetlands, meadows and dry grasslands, forests and woods, cliffs and rocky environments). The perimeter includes the Cize Bolozon viaduct and the loop of the Ain, emblematic of the department, as well as high points appreciated for the landscapes and the panoramic views they offer: the Belvédère des Roches, the Rochers du Jardonnet, the Mont Balvay, the side of Conflans, the Col de la Bréchette.
L’ILE CHAMBOD-MERPUIS : GREEN TOURISM DESTINATION
The “Haute Vallée de l’Ain” ENS has a vast perimeter that includes the Ain river, over a length of more than 25 kilometres. Chambod Merpuis Island, as the "gateway" to "ENS Haute Vallée de l'Ain", thus benefits from a central place, both from a geographical and tourist point of view. In addition, an interpretation trail on Chambod Island allows you to discover the 10 remarkable sites of the Upper Ain Valley, while going around the island. It is signposted over a length of 2 kilometers and is accessible to people with reduced mobility (PRM) on half of the route.
THE CODE
BEFORE YOUR TRIP
I prepare my trip and find out about the destination.
I plan my visit if possible outside periods of high attendance so as not to overload the sites. With us, we prefer spring and autumn, but we will be delighted to welcome you this summer! I look for means of (public) transport to come. HERE !
THE EQUIPMENT
I prefer to buy second-hand clothes and equipment.
I do not hesitate to rent equipment in case of infrequent use.
I favor brands that produce with respect for the environment and people.
However, I am not putting my health at risk: some equipment needs to be new or reconditioned, particularly with regard to safety and belaying (harnesses, ropes, carabiners, ARVA, etc.).
TRANSPORTS
I prefer emission-free means of transport: walking, cycling, canoeing...
I opt for public or shared transport with low emissions as much as possible: the train (14 grams of CO2 per km), the car, the bus, carpooling, hitchhiking...
MY BASECAMP
I leave the place as it was when I arrived.
I do not disturb the fauna and flora and respect other users.
I take all my waste with me: leftover food, rubbish.
I go as far as possible from trails and natural water sources to relieve myself.
I don't leave my toilet paper there, I keep it in a bag.
I use natural products to wash myself, brush my teeth or do the dishes, and I make sure that waste water does not end up in natural sources.
I respect the bivouac sites.
I take care not to extend my camp.
I concentrate my activity where the vegetation is absent.
I do not move stones, plants, logs or other natural elements.
I do not build any form of structure or landscaping.
I leave each place as I found it when I arrived.
I do not make fires or barbecues and favor the use of a stove for cooking as well as electric or solar lamps for lighting.
DURING HIKING
I stay on the marked trails, even muddy or wet, so as not to participate in the erosion of the sites they cross.
I respect other users and let them pass on the trail. I speak softly, I avoid making noise (music, shouting, etc.) and I let the sounds of nature predominate.
WILD LIFE
I admire wild animals from a distance, without following or feeding them. We have a lot of lynx (and squirrels) in Ain in particular and we must preserve them!
I am particularly vigilant during the mating season, so as not to disturb the reproduction.
I appreciate the fauna and flora without tearing it down or trampling it.
BEFORE MY TRIP
I offset my CO2 emissions or by being careful about sharing on social networks, especially if I gather a large community. I calculate the carbon emissions of my trip vith GreeTripper https://www.greentripper.org/
I try to offset these emissions by making a donation to a local environmental association (donations to associations are 66% tax deductible).