Fort l’Écluse: nature, adventure and heritage

Fort l’Écluse, located in Léaz in the Ain region, is a remarkable site where wild nature, military history, and outdoor activities come together. Built into the mountainside and overlooking the Rhône river, it offers a spectacular setting for a unique immersive experience in the Jura mountains.

Via ferrata: a vertical route between two forts

The via ferrata at Fort l’Écluse connects the lower and upper forts along a 400-meter-long route with a 150-meter elevation gain. Rated as "moderately difficult", it features steep rock faces, ledges, terraces, and ends with a 15-meter-long monkey bridge suspended beneath the drawbridge of the upper fort.

• Estimated duration: 1h30
• Approach walk: 5 minutes
• Return trail: 20 minutes
• Required equipment: helmet, harness, energy-absorbing lanyard (available for rent on site)

👉 More information about the via ferrata:
https://www.fortlecluse.fr/aventure

Adventure course: 38 elevated workshops

The fort also offers a tree-top adventure course with 38 stations, designed for all ages:

• For children: balance games, beams, monkey bridges, rope swings
• For thrill-seekers: climbing traverses, zip lines 250 meters above the Rhône

A continuous lifeline system ensures safety throughout the course, supervised by certified instructors.

📍 Ticket prices include access to the fort:
https://www.fortlecluse.fr/aventure

Hiking trails around the fort

The site is also the starting point for several hiking trails, including:

• A 13.5 km loop with 720 meters of elevation gain
• Family-friendly forest walks
• A section of the Way of Saint James with stunning views of Mont Blanc and the Alps

Cultural events in a historic venue

Throughout the year, Fort l’Écluse hosts a rich cultural program featuring:

• Concerts: jazz, classical, contemporary music
• Exhibitions: contemporary art, heritage displays
• Live performances: theater, light shows, open-air screenings

📅 Cultural calendar available here:
https://www.fortlecluse.fr/evenements