Flat landscape of 1,000 fish ponds and the Parc des Oiseaux, a 35-hectare bird park with about 3,000 birds from five continents; entry about EUR 22 (~$24.65), check parcdesoiseaux.com.
La Dombes is a flat landscape of roughly 1,000 fish ponds in the Ain department of Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes, France, about 35 km north-east of Lyon. Its main attraction for visitors is the Parc des Oiseaux at Villars-les-Dombes, a 35-hectare bird park with about 3,000 birds from five continents. Entry is about EUR 22 (~$24.65); prices are published on parcdesoiseaux.com and should be checked before travel. The simplest public route is a TER train from Lyon Part-Dieu to Villars-les-Dombes, about 35 minutes and around EUR 7 (~$7.85) each way. The park is about 1.5 km from the station, a walk of roughly 20 minutes, or a short taxi ride. Driving takes about 40 minutes by the A46 and N83, with free parking at the park. A typical day starts with an arrival at the park soon after opening, since the paths are long and the aviaries are best seen in the cooler morning. Visitors walk through themed areas with flamingos, pelicans, storks, parrots and waterfowl, and there are free-flight demonstrations in the season. Lunch can be taken in the park cafe or in the town. The afternoon suits a drive or walk along the surrounding pond roads, where herons and other wild birds can often be seen. The visit involves a few kilometres of flat walking, which keeps the effort easy for most travellers, including families. The best season is March to October, when most birds are active and demonstrations run; winter opening can be limited, so check ahead. The park is open daily in season, but visitors may wish to phone +33 4 74 98 05 54 to confirm current hours.
| Distance | 35 km north-east of Lyon |
|---|---|
| Travel time | 35 minutes by train plus taxi or walk |
| Getting there | Train (TER from Lyon Part-Dieu to Villars-les-Dombes, about 35 minutes, around EUR 7 (~$7.85) each way) then taxi or walk to the Parc des Oiseaux; phone +33 4 74 98 05 54 |
| Difficulty | easy |
| Address | Parc des Oiseaux, RN 83, 01330 Villars-les-Dombes, France |
How to get there
- Mode
- Train
- Duration
- About 35 minutes plus 20 minutes on foot
- Notes
- TER to Villars-les-Dombes; the park is about 1.5 km from the station.
- Mode
- Car
- Duration
- About 40 minutes
- Notes
- A46 and N83 north-east; free parking at the park.
Location
Parc des Oiseaux, RN 83, 01330 Villars-les-Dombes, France
46.0019, 5.0319 View on map
Highlights
- About 3,000 birds from five continents across 35 hectares
- Flamingos, pelicans, storks and parrots
- Flight demonstrations in season
- Surrounding Dombes ponds and birdwatching
- Easy flat walking suitable for families
Tips for visiting
- Take the TER from Part-Dieu to Villars-les-Dombes; the park is a 20-minute walk or a short taxi ride.
- Check ticket prices and opening hours on parcdesoiseaux.com before going.
- Arrive soon after opening, since mornings are cooler and calmer for the birds.
- Bring a hat and water in summer, as shade varies along the paths.
- Drive if travelling with young children; parking at the park is free.
When to visit
March to October, arriving in the morning. Summer midday heat can be strong.
Accessibility
The park paths are mostly flat and suitable for pushchairs and many wheelchairs. Confirm details with the park before visiting.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
How much does the Parc des Oiseaux cost?
Entry is about EUR 22 (~$24.65); check parcdesoiseaux.com for current prices.
How do I get there from Lyon?
Take a TER to Villars-les-Dombes in about 35 minutes. The park is about 1.5 km from the station.
When is the best time to go?
March to October is best, when most birds are active and demonstrations are held.