Discover this versatile department, located next to Saône-et-Loire, which is named after the Rhone River that crosses the area from north to south. There is so much to see and experience in Rhône. It is known as the Mecca of gastronomy where you can enjoy authentic dishes and the most delicious wines. Discover beautiful historic cities. And those who would like to retreat to nature can indulge themselves here.
Lyon is the largest hotspot in this department. It has a beautiful old town that is on the UNESCO World Heritage List with picturesque streets, courtyards and Renaissance houses. Also don't forget to visit the Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière where you have a great view. Prefer a day of shopping? On the Presqu’île peninsula in the middle of the city you will find numerous shopping streets. If you feel like a bite to eat after shopping or hiking, then definitely visit "les Bouchons", in these small, authentic restaurants you can enjoy the most delicious local products.
The cities of Vienne and Valence cannot be forgotten. Stroll through the narrow streets in Vienne or sip a delicious glass of Crozes-Hermitage on one of the many terraces in Valence.
The land of Beaujolais is definitely worth a visit. Not only because of the charming villages that turn golden yellow like Oingt and Bagnols, but also because of the world-famous vineyards that can be found here. The country has 12 appellations including Beaujolais, Brouilly and Chénas. Tip: visit a wine tasting or go to the House of Beaujolais in Saint-Jean-d’Ardières where you can get to know Beaujolais wines. Other famous wine regions are Côte-Rôtie and Condrieu.
And of course wine also comes with good food. The Rhône department, especially the city of Lyon, is known for its authentic regional products. From a salad of Lyonnaise, Jésus and rosette (two sausage specialties) to the carnival fritters "bugnes" and the cervelle de canut; a cream cheese based on flat cheese, garlic and fine herbs. That is culinary enjoyment.
Do you want a sportier holiday and at the same time enjoy nature? That is also possible in the Rhône. In the Le Pilat Regional Nature Park, which also covers the neighboring Loire department with 65,000 hectares, you have many mountain bike and hiking routes and, in winter, snowshoe trails and ski slopes. In the mountains around Lyon you can enjoy hiking and mountain biking and offer some great views, such as Saint-André. The daredevils among us can go canyoning. Or climb up to the heights with the family in the adventure park Vanciaventure in a former military fortress on the outskirts of Lyon.
Another recommendation is the La Vallée Bleue recreation area on the banks of the Rhone River. Here you can kayak, among other things, or take a fantastic jet ski trip on the river. What an experience!