Villette-d'Anthon is a town in the Isere region Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, 30 km east of Lyon.
Large 23 km², its territory is bordered by the Rhone river, and the departments of Ain (north), and the Rhône (west and south).
This particular location has marked the history of the locality. Occupied by the Savoyards and then the Romans (as attested by the discovery in 1980 of a treasure in the form of nearly 10,000 Roman coins dating from the third century) Villette-d'Anthon as the entire province of Dauphine part of the Kingdom of France 1349.
Constituted until recently several poles (as the former stronghold of Anthon), having prospered through active farming tradition, the town which now has nearly 5,000 inhabitants preserved a green living environment despite the proximity of the city of Lyon and the airport platform and TGV station Lyon Saint-Exupery.
It is even a green space along the river especially appreciated for its golf.
In terms of heritage, it is a modest-looking building that reveals, however, the jewel of the town.
This is the old Church of St. Martin de Villette located on precisely hamlet called "Under the Church." Its foundations date back to the tenth century, and the parish it served was long possession of the Abbey of L'Ile Barbe in Lyon before being integrated directly into the diocese. The nave of the church, however demolished in 1859. The fact remains that most of our days square sanctuary span, however, surmounted by a high tower (the bell tower). It is furthermore observed traces of ancient masonry reflecting revisions and a few openings. For specialists, the building is typical of rural churches of yesteryear in the Rhone Valley, Lyon and Vienna. This typicality is also evident in terms of materials: calcareous schist stone ocher color, especially for chains of angles, and more composite stones in the mass of the walls (pebbles, stones of white limestone and blue granite... the whole being bound by a mortar compound coarse gravel). Restored in 2005 and the cemetery that surrounds the church has the label "Isère Heritage".
It then its sports activities and "nature" leisure justifying a step-d'Anthon Villet.
And include the skate park arranged along the RD 124 connecting the town and village of Asnière. Information at +33 4 78 31 25 05.
A tennis match is also possible: book runs to +33 4 78 31 12 13.
However, this is golf set on a vast green area adjoining the left bank of the Rhone, which attracts an audience from all over the city (it is also known as Golf de Lyon). It comprises two 18-hole course. The first, entitled "The brocades," is a "72" along 6105 m opened in 1964. Experts note that it includes long and complex "Par 3", but also many holes in the "dog leg". Tradition has it that the golfers on this course are required to use all the clubs in his bag!
The second is called "The Boar". Inaugurated in 1991, "72" along 6575 m has a neat natural environment (forest plots, ponds). Its designer Hugues Lambert was able to wisely use the meanders of the Rhone to develop enclaves aspect still wild. Furthermore, the course includes a panoramic hill that offers players and spectators an exceptional view. Technical and physical, dotted with greens designed in gentle slopes, it has hosted the Open de France. The golf course also includes a driving range with 12 covered bays, putting greens and an adaptable training center course "pitch and putt" of 9 holes. Open all year. For visitors, FFG compulsory license. From 45 to 50 euros per course depending on the season. Reservations and information +33 4 78 31 11 33.
In a different kind, the Rhone and the waters which neighbor its banks can be enjoyed by fishing enthusiasts. Inquire about suitable sites and regulation at +33 4 76 31 06 00.
Finally, whether the protected natural area of marsh Charvas, woods and non-urbanized land areas, hikers have the opportunity to enjoy pleasant scenery along roads accessible and free from imposing reliefs.
Without forgetting of course the trail of ViaRhôna along the river and is particularly dedicated to joggers, cyclists and mountain bikers! Maps and information +33 4 74 90 45 13 or +33 4 78 31 25 05.
Culturally, Villette-d'Anthon to the library near the town hall exhibition program regularly and animations. Contact the +33 4 72 02 08 71.
