No one will say the opposite: beer is festive! And at Les Balcons, we're not the last for conviviality and celebration, so five brasseries on the territory: not even afraid!
The oldest is located in the heart of the medieval town of Crémieu , in a former Ursuline convent, hence its name: "La Brasserie des Ursulines" (The Ursuline Brewery). The second is the brainchild of two childhood friends, passionate about hoppy brews, who took the plunge and set up their small organic brewery, "La Brasserie du Palais" (The Palace Brewery), in the hamlet of Le Palais – you couldn't make it up! – in the charming village of Optevoz. The third is simply named after the hamlet where it's located in La Balme-les-Grottes: "L'Échopp' de Travers" (The Cross-Country Shop). You probably know them for their delicious cheeses; Maëlle and Yoann, from GAEC la Chèvre Ry in Crémieu, have recently started brewing their own beers. And finally, located in Morestel, the fifth and newest of them all, Brasserie des Balcons (The Balcony Brewery), is a family-run, independent, and educational microbrewery – no less.
Beers that roll at the Balconies
The Brasserie des Ursulines in Crémieu
For over ten years now, this place has been "the place to be" in Crémieu! First, because the beer is good, and that's the most important thing you look for in a brewery, especially a craft one. Second, because it's a heritage site that brewing has brought back to life. And finally, because the owner, Olivier Bourgaud, has found the perfect balance to offer an eclectic and engaging program of events. It's all about finding the right balance… just like brewing a good beer!
The Brasserie du Palais in Optevoz
Once upon a time there were two childhood friends who had a common passion: beer. They had sworn to each other, wooden crosses, iron crosses, that one day they would know how to concoct good beers in a place of their own. You have to believe that the Houblon fairy leaned over their barrels since their childhood dream has come true. The Brasserie du Palais is located in an old farmhouse where Guillaume Lecoin and Maxime Humbert concoct fabulous beers whose ingredients come from Organic Farming and are local as much as possible. Ethics friends!
The Échopp' de Travers in La Balme-les-Grottes
Ideally located on the ViaRhôna passage in the village of Balme-les-Grottes, the Échopp' de Travers is a microbrewery that not only offers a wide range of beers as we like them (amber, brut IPA, blond, white …) but also home-made products that are just right when it's aperitif time: tapenade, pepper, hummus… Appetizer platters are also available for tasting. The relaxation break is all the more delicious!
The Brasserie des Balcons in Morestel, beer factory and taproom
The newest addition to our region, Brasserie des Balcons is a family-run, independent, and educational microbrewery dedicated to helping beer drinkers develop their palates and discover the world of beer. Manon and Vincent enthusiastically and passionately welcome you to their brewery in the heart of the Balcons du Dauphiné and guide you through tastings of their 100% handcrafted beers!
The Cask House, brasserie, Irish pub and wine shop in Saint-Chef
The Cask House opened its doors at the beginning of 2023 in the heart of the abbey town of Saint-Chef. Whether you choose a craft beer, an Irish whiskey or another spirit from the wide choice offered by Stephen and his team, enjoy your drink on the terrace (weather permitting!) and enjoy the view of the imposing abbey church of the village.
To consume with moderation !
Drinking well is necessarily accompanied by eating well...
Local, good, organic, you will find all four villages! Goat cheeses, free-range pig farms (yes there are still some!), fruits, vegetables, cereals… The list is very long. So, download the map of producers at Les Balcons: there will necessarily be what you are looking for!
