Rhône Alpes - inRhoneAlpes

Rhône-Alpes
Press KIT
2015
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Rhône-Alpes: Welcome to the heart of Europe ............................................................................................ 1
Cartography ............................................................................................................................................... 3
I. Rhône-Alpes by statistics........................................................................................................................ 4
II. Event highlights of the region ............................................................................................................... 5
III. Must-do activities in the Rhône-Alpes ................................................................................................. 9
IV. An easy-to-access region in the heart of Europe ............................................................................... 13
WINE TOURISM IN RHÔNE-ALPES: VINEYARDS OF INTERNATIONAL REPUTATION ................................. 14
I.Rhône-Alpes region: Wine tourism by statistics ................................................................................... 17
II. Wine lovers: The attractions of the region ......................................................................................... 18
III. Our favourites..................................................................................................................................... 20
IV. To go further ...................................................................................................................................... 25
ViaRhôna, the new cycling route from Lake Geneva to the Mediterranean Sea ........................................ 26
I. ViaRhôna by statistics ........................................................................................................................... 28
II. Must-visit sights in the Rhône-Alpes ................................................................................................... 29
III. Our favourites..................................................................................................................................... 31
IV. To go further ...................................................................................................................................... 32
Mountains: The natural splendor of the Rhône-Alpes ................................................................................ 33
I. Rhône-Alpes: the mountains by statistics ............................................................................................ 37
II. The must-see sights of the region ....................................................................................................... 38
III. Our favourites..................................................................................................................................... 39
IV. To go further ...................................................................................................................................... 40
A remarkable cultural treasure ................................................................................................................... 41
I. Culture in Rhône-Alpes: key statistics .................................................................................................. 43
II. Must-see sites and museums .............................................................................................................. 44
III. Favourites ........................................................................................................................................... 47
IV. To go further ...................................................................................................................................... 49
Rhône-Alpes, a destination for one and all ................................................................................................. 50
I. Key statistics ......................................................................................................................................... 53
II. Must-see sights.................................................................................................................................... 54
III. Favourites ........................................................................................................................................... 56
IV. To go further ...................................................................................................................................... 58
Rhône-Alpes:
Welcome to the heart of Europe
Located in the southeast of France, Rhône-Alpes benefits from its position at the intersection of Europe.
Sharing borders with Switzerland and Italy, two international airports (Lyon-Saint-Exupéry and Geneva),
a robust rail system and a vast highway network, Rhône-Alpes is fast becoming an essential European
destination. Moreover, it is the second-largest region in metropolitan France in terms of area, economy
and population.
Known for some of the largest skiing destinations in the world, Rhône-Alpes boasts the majority of
French ski resorts as well as natural resources like Mont-Blanc and the gorges of Ardèche. Between
mountains, vineyards, valleys, fields of lavender and olive trees, Rhône-Alpes has a great diversity of
landscapes as well as two national parks (Vanoise and Ecrins) and seven regional parks (Bauges, Vercors,
Monts d’Ardèche, Haut-Jura, Pilat, Chartreuse and Baronnies Provençales). Water is a dominant
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component of the region as well — it has snow, glaciers and rivers that lead to three of the largest lakes
in France: Lake Geneva, Lake Bourget and Lake Annecy.
This diversity of landscapes gives rise to a number of sports — like biking, hiking, paragliding and
canoeing — which can be practised in breathtaking natural settings. It is also the second-best region in
France for playing golf, with more than 60 courses. Plus, Rhône-Alpes is able to claim having held the
winter Olympics three times: in Chamonix (1924), Grenoble (1968) and Albertville (1992).
Rhône-Alpes also shines because of its vibrancy. With events like the Lumière Festival in Lyon, the
Annecy International Animated Film Festival, The Biennial of Design in Saint-Etienne and the Jazz Festival
in Vienna, art is celebrated in all its forms all year long, giving the area a rich regional heritage. Lyon,
home to UNESCO World Heritage sites, is also a worldwide culinary capital, which means visitors can see
the famous Halles Paul Bocuse, discover a breadth of renowned restaurants and taste a number of local
specialties, without forgetting to try the noted wines of the region like Beaujolais and Côtes du Rhône.
Rhône-Alpes boasts 838,000 tourist beds spread across 2,049 establishments. Hotels, campsites, youth
hostels, tourist residences, guest houses and unusual overnight locations offer quite a large choice for
lodgings. It’s also the third-largest French destination for business tourism, with a total of 30 exhibition
centres and conference rooms as well as 40 luxury private event locations, like the Amphitheatre in the
International City or the Espace Tête d’Or in Lyon. A new Lyon stadium, which will open in time for Euro
2016, also shouldn’t be forgotten.
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CARTOGRAPHY
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I. RHÔNE-ALPES BY STATISTICS
44,000 km2 of land, making up 8% of the nation’s area
6.3 million inhabitants
8 departments: Ain, Ardèche, Drôme, Isère, Loire, Rhône, Savoie and Haute-Savoie
6 main cities: Lyon, Saint-Etienne, Grenoble, Valence, Chambéry and Annecy
Natural characteristics:
6 rivers
21 large lakes
3 mountain ranges: the Alps, the Jura, and the Massif Central
7 regional parks
2 national parks
Tourist visits: 145.9 million tourist overnights in Rhône-Alpes in 2013
52% of stays were in summer (from May to September)
40% of stays were in winter (from December to April)
8% of stays were in autumn (October and November)
Economic turnover from tourism:
17 billion euros spent in the region by French and foreign tourists
1.2 billion euros invested in the region’s tourism in 2013
132,300 jobs in the tourism sector in Rhône-Alpes (10.6% of the national total)
More than 1 billion euros in revenue generated from ski tourism during the 2013-2014 winter
season
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II. EVENT HIGHLIGHTS OF THE REGION
Rhône-Alpes knows how to put its strengths forward all year long. Film festivals, sporting events,
markets selling wine and local products, carnivals, music festivals, concerts, night parties, sound and light
shows and other festivities give life to the area.
March
International Design Biennial in Saint Etienne. The event has not stopped evolving since its
foundation in 1988 and has become the most eclectic design event in France. Its principle objective is to
democratise design and make it accessible to everyone (the odd years).
www.biennale-design.com
The Printemps de Pérouges. The voices, the settings, the ambiance… Mixing renowned and
just-discovered artists, the Pérouges Spring Festival is open to all audiences. It is held each year in places
from Pérouges to Lyon that are both diverse and unexpected, like a church-fortress, Rapan Farm and a
bird park, to simultaneously promote the region’s heritage.
www.festival-perouges.org
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May
Nuits Sonores Festival. During the weekend of the Ascension, galleries, cinemas, museums and
other locations emblematic of Lyon welcome a series of electro music concerts for an unforgettable
spectacle of sound and visuals. Begun in 2003, the festival welcomes artists from around the world and is
known across Europe.
www.nuits-sonores.com
June/July
Les Nuits de Fourvière. In Lyon, starting in the beginning of June, the Roman theatres of
Fourvière, as well as other cultural sites in the city, host theatre, music, dance, opera, circus and cinema
events. All the arts coexist for two months in an open, modern festival with an eclectic programme,
where the only criteria for inclusion are artistic quality and an international aspect to each project.
www.nuitsdefourviere.fr
Jazz à Vienne. The annual event for the big names in jazz runs each year from the end of June to
mid-July in the wonderful setting of Vienne’s Roman amphitheatre. Concerts are also held throughout
the city during the festival.
www.jazzavienne.com
Les Fêtes Nocturnes du Château de Grignan. Towering over the village of Grignan, the town’s
castle opens its doors every night during the summer for nighttime parties. For two months, spectators
have the privilege of being able to attend a play with the castle as its setting.
www.grignan-guide.fr/fetes-nocturnes
August
Fête du Lac d’Annecy. On the first Sunday of August, Annecy presents the greatest pyrotechnic
spectacle in Europe. The shores of the lake welcome close to 200,000 spectators for a lavish and
enchanting evening of fireworks and illuminated cruise ships.
www.lac-annecy.com
La Fête des guides. In Chamonix, August 15th marks the beginning of four weeks of festivities. La
Fête des guides is a chance for the French capital of mountaineering to introduce its talented guides in a
traditional and friendly atmosphere. On the programme: a sound and light show, climbing exhibitions
and fireworks.
www.fetedesguides.com
Au Bonheur des Mômes. The largest public cultural event for children is held each year in
Grand-Bornand. It includes a multitude of demonstrations, workshops, exhibitions and games and rides,
creating six days of fantasy where all types of performing arts are represented.
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www.aubonheurdesmomes.com
September
Les Biennales de Lyon. Every second year from September to January, the city of Lyon holds the
Biennial of Dance, during which the programme alternates between shows, conferences, meetings and
even a competition for children to make the event accessible to everyone. Odd years are devoted to the
Biennial of Contemporary Art.
www.labiennaledelyon.com
La Coupe Icare. The largest free flight event in the world is held in September, close to Grenoble.
The Icarus Cup brings together more than 8,000 fans of the sky who, in displays of adrenaline and
emotion, defy the laws of gravity by parachute, paragliding, wingsuit, flight or hang gliding.
www.coupe-icare.org
October
Lumière Festival. Each year in mid-October, the Lumière Institute in Lyon organizes the Lumière
Festival. The festival invites the discovery or rediscovery of classic films from around the world over the
span of a week, making it a must-visit event for cultural cinema.
www.festival-lumiere.org
November
Le Beaujolais Nouveau - Release of the new Beaujolais. As the only internationally popular
party dedicated to wine, this event is known around the world! Each third Thursday in November at
midnight, it’s time to celebrate the arrival of the new Beaujolais during a festive and friendly evening.
www.beaujolais.fr
December
Fête des Lumières - The Light Festival Celebrated each year on the 8th of December, this
traditional festival has becomes one of the foremost events for light and sound worldwide. Over four
days, magic is imparted on Lyon in the form of illuminated monuments and buildings and spectacles of
light and sound.
www.fetedeslumieres.lyon.fr
Les Arcs European Film Festival. In mid-December, the Arcs ski resort hosts this major cultural
event. It’s an opportunity to combine culture and the slopes in a festive atmosphere, all while
discovering the best of European cinema.
www.lesarcs-filmfest.com
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The Critérium de la Première Neige - Criterium of the First Snow. The end of the year in Val
d’Isère is marked by the Criterium of the First Snow, a sports competition with an international reach
that opens the ski season in France and is now a stage of the World Cup.
www.valdisere.com
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III. MUST-DO
RHÔNE-ALPES
ACTIVITIES
IN
THE
Between castles, museums, archaeological sites, caves and parks, Rhône-Alpes is full of exceptional sites
and interesting activities. Its cultural offerings grow each year, including in 2015 opening of the
Confluence Museum in Lyon and the Caverne du Pont d’Arc - Ardèche.
The Confluence Museum. Opened in December 2014 in Lyon, the Confluence Museum is located
at the intersection of the Rhône and the Saône and boasts a modern and ethereal architecture. Meant to
feed curiosity and desire for knowledge, it covers the most recent research in science and technology,
archaeology and ethnology; and museology and dissemination of information, all while making sure to
address other areas of interest as well. The permanent collection contains more than 2.2 million pieces
from the 17th to the 21st centuries and from across the world, organized in four parts: origins, societies,
species and eternity.
www.museedesconfluences.fr
The Caverne du Pont d’Arc - Ardèche. The decorated cave of Pont-d’Arc (knows as Chauvet
Cave) was discovered in 1994. The quality of the conservation and the richness of the cave drawings
discovered there have won it the title of the first-known decorated cave in the world, as well as World
Heritage site status from UNESCO. A sizable paleontological heritage will now be brought to collective
attention thanks to the Caverne du Pont d’Arc (replica of the Chauvet Cave), that opens in April 2015. It
is a colossal work that began more than two years ago, with an ambition to reconstruct all the typical
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elements of a true underground environment: coolness, moisture and darkness. Inside, all the paintings,
engravings and geological and archaeological elements of the decorated Chauvet Cave will be restored.
www.lacavernedupontdarc.org
Must-see Sites
The Myth of the Alps
From the alpine giants in the eastern part of the Massif Central to the foothills of the Jura, the region
offers an incomparable range of mountain landscapes. Dominated by Mont-Blanc, the so-called “world
above” includes peaks, passes, valleys and pastures from Chablais to Beaufortain, from Tarentaise to
Belledonne, from Maurienne to Oisans. Sentinels shaped by time and elements, these colossuses of
stone and ice, from the Aiguille du Midi to the Meije, take on the most daring conquests, close to the sun
and adorned with eternal snow.
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. As the world capital for mountaineering, Chamonix, located at the foot
of Mont-Blanc, is an animated city full of activities and sites that are not to be missed. The Sea of Ice, an
ancient glacier accessible by the little Montenvers railway, offers an unparalleled view of the
surrounding countryside, like the Aiguille du Midi cable car and the Brévant cable car, which link the two
highest peaks in the region. On the terrace of the Aiguille du Midi, at an altitude of 3,842 meters, you can
find the highest attraction in Europe. “Le Pas dans le Vide” is a glass cube that allows visitors to see the
void in an exceptional manner and admire the high views for an unforgettable experience.
www.chamonix.com
Lyon – A major destination
Boasting UNESCO World Heritage sites and many museums, the culinary capital of the world is also the
ideal city for a cultural trip. Classified as UNESCO sites since 1998, the Renaissance-era quarters of Old
Lyon and Fourvière Hill and Gallo-Roman ruins like the Croix-Rousse district and the city centre
(Presqu'île) are well-suited for walking and shopping. Complementing the new Confluence Museum, the
Gadagne Museum, the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Fine Arts Museum, the Lumière Institute or
the Museum of Miniatures and Cinema are also essential visits.
www.lyon-france.com
The large alpine lakes
Annecy Lake is among the most popular destinations in the region, and is considered today one of the
purest lakes in Europe. Annecy, the “Little Venice of Savoie,” is home to many canals. Over the water,
Old Annecy unveils its streets and arched houses with the Alps as a backdrop. Visitors can take a festive
cruise over lunch or for an evening’s entertainment.
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Bourget Lake, the largest and deepest natural lake in France, inspired Lamartine’s famous poem “The
Lake” and welcomed prestigious visitors like Queen Victoria to its spas in Aix-les-Bains and
Bourget-du-Lac. Today, visitors still appreciate the soothing benefits of the healing waters as well as
activities offered on the lake, like sailing, swimming and fishing.
Léman Lake, known internationally as Lake Geneva, forms a natural boarder with Switzerland. The
Rhône-Alpes side is a true Riviera, with spas and seaside resorts like Thonon-les-Bains and
Evian-les-Bains and many fishing villages like Yvoire.
www.lac-annecy.com / www.thononlesbains.com/fr /www.evian-tourisme.com / www.lacdubourget.fr
Gates of Provence, colours and scents
On either side of the Rhône, huge fields of lavender border vineyards, olive trees, peach trees and truffle
trees. These products fill the region’s colorful markets, magnifying its tastes and artisanal traditions. It’s
a lovely mixture of hilltop villages, the castles of Grignan, Suze-la-Rousse or Vogüe, the caves and caverns
such as Aven d’Orgnac (a French Grand Site) and many others still.
The Pont d’Arc and the Gorges de l’Ardèche. A UNESCO site since 1982, the Pont d’Arc is the
only functional riverfront stone arch in France, and it spans a river 59 meters large. This giant natural
bridge is located at the beginning of the Ardèche Gorges which extend over thirty kilometers long. The
gorges are accessible from the road or from the water by canoe, kayak or boat, and they were declared a
nature reserve in 1980.
www.vallon-pont-darc.com
Scents of lavender
In June and July, lavender flowers blanket the fields in the south of the region in an elegant shade of
purple-blue. Originally used by the Romans to do laundry and perfume baths, lavender has been
rediscovered today for many uses: fragrances, essential oils, soaps, sachets, herbal teas, honey or even
vinegar. A visit to a lavender distillery adds still more charm to this multi-purpose plant.
The Most Beautiful Villages in France
The Most Beautiful Villages in France Association seeks to protect and promote the heritage of
exceptional French villages. There are 157 such villages, 13 of which are in Rhône-Alpes. One visit to the
region is an opportunity to admire an unparalleled view of the heights of Garde-Adhémar from the
Rhône Valley, visit the yellow stone houses of Oingt that are home to artists and artisans, walk inside the
ramparts of Pérouges or stroll down the little flowered streets of Yvoire.
Rhône-Alpes, a gourmet destination
Fields, orchards, vineyards…considered the ‘pantry’ of France, the Rhône-Alpes region presents an
exceptionally diverse landscape, maintained by nearly 40,000 farms. Rhône-Alpes is home to an
explosion of natural flavours that will satisfy gourmet and foodies alike. Plentiful fruit trees and tasty
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vegetables, chestnuts from Ardèche, walnuts from Grenoble and olives from Nyons contribute to the
region’s reputation as a land of abundance committed to responsible production methods. Rhône-Alpes
is indeed a remarkable place for experimenting with biological farming, and its livestock boasts great
vitality. In both the mountains and the plains of Forez, herds of cattle and goats generate high-quality
meats as well as abundant milk production, ideal material for a cheese industry with 15 AOP
(Origin-Protected) varieties. Other Origin-Protected products include chicken from Bresse, olives from
Nyons and the majority of cru wines made in Rhône-Alpes vineyards, from grape varieties like Gamay,
Syrah and Grenache. In total, the region boasts 71 Origin-Controlled wines, 59 of which are
Origin-Protected, and more than 50 Red Labels.
The French leader in specific areas like apricots, chestnuts, aromatic plants, walnuts and cheese, the
region’s land is an inexhaustible source of flavours and aromas, from the mountains of Savoie to the
orchards of the Rhône Valley. Tomme from Savoie, Rosette from Lyon, walnuts from Grenoble, poultry
from Bresse, truffles from Tricastin and black olives from Nyons are just some of the products that reveal
the richness of the Rhône-Alpes’ soil.
All of these excellent products, served at some of the region’s finest tables, are part of the Rhône-Alpes’
always-strong culinary reputation.
In 2015, René and Maxime Meilleur (Saint-Martin-de-Belleville) joined the exclusive circle of chefs with
three Michelin stars, alongside Michel Troisgros (Roanne), Emmanuel Renaut (Megève) , Anne-Sophie Pic
(Valence), Georges Blanc (Vonnas) and Paul Bocuse (Collonges-au-Mont-d’Or), ambassadors of a
Rhône-Alpes culinary art that has been lauded by gourmets around the world for centuries. All in all,
Rhône-Alpes is home to 82 Michelin-starred restaurants.
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IV. AN EASY-TO-ACCESS REGION IN THE
HEART OF EUROPE
By plane:
 Lyon Saint Exupéry international airport (www.lyon.aeroport.fr)
The fourth-largest French airport and multimodal hub gives direct access to 115 destinations.
With 63% international traffic, it is a major point of access in Europe. Accessible destinations
include Germany, Spain, UK and Italy,… as well as the new long-haul line between Lyon and
Dubai.
New visitors centre: The Espace Welcome, a hub for multimedia information, is located between
terminals 1 and 2 in the high-speed train station.
 Geneva International Airport (www.gva.ch)
Information for visitors to France can be found at the Visitor’s Centre


Two airports for use during the winter season:
Chambéry Savoie Airport (www.chambery.aeroport.fr)
Grenoble Isère Airport (www.grenoble-airport.com)
By train :
International Transportation Service (Large-line Trains) :
 New: Starting in May 2015, Eurostar offers direct connections between London and Lyon four
times a week
 Connection with Brussels : Thalys (as well as Thalys Soleil and Thalys Neige) and high-speed train
from Brussels to Lyon
 Connection with London: Eurostar London – Lyon high-speed train and “Eurostar des neiges”
 Connection with Barcelona: Train from Barcelona – Lyon
 Connections with Turin and Milan: high-speed train from Lyon
International routes: www.voyages-sncf.com
National Transportation Service: National lines run between Rhône-Alpes and a number of destinations
in France, mostly by high-speed train.
National routes: www.sncf.com.
Regional Transportation Service: Express regional trains cover the whole region, ensuring regular
connections that run between mountain resorts and large cities in the region.
Regional express trains: www.ter-sncf.com.
By road:
With more than 1,300 kilometers of highway, Rhône-Alpes is one of the best-serviced regions in France
for roadways.
More information on: www.via-michelin.com.
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WINE TOURISM IN RHÔNE-ALPES:
VINEYARDS OF INTERNATIONAL
REPUTATION
From the Alps to Provence, the Rhône-Alpes region is an exceptionally diverse area: mountain summits,
verdant plains, huge lakes and fields of lavender are among the scenery that gives the region such a
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unique image. The sun covers the land with light, while the richness of the subsoil provides the grapes
with minerals indispensable to developing flavour. These are the assets that have given Rhône-Alpes
wine production its international reputation.
Wine is a true economic force for the fifth-ranked wine producing region in France by volume (except
Cognac), with a production labelled at more than 90%! At the heart of the region, Lyon is the gateway to
three large vineyards (Beaujolais, Côtes du Rhône and Savoie wines) to which it partially owes its title of
culinary capital of the world. More information about the stars of the region:
Beaujolais wines. Situated between Lyon and Mâcon, the vineyards contain one unique variety
of grape, the Gamay, and their rolling hillsides give the grapes excellent access to sunlight. From the
variety of microclimates and the richness of the soil, a dozen festive types of wine stand out, including 10
crus: Brouilly, Régnié, Morgon, Chiroubles, Fleurie, Moulin-à-vent, Chénas, Juliénas, Saint-Amour and
Côte-de-Brouilly. Each third Thursday of November, the arrival of the new Beaujolais is celebrated across
France and the entire world. In Beaujeu, the capital of Beaujolais, locals and visitors find themselves in
Sarmentelles for tastings, contests and parades lit by torch.
For more information about Beaujolais wines: www.beaujolais.fr
Côtes du Rhône wines. These vineyards are spread across three regions: Rhône-Alpes,
Provence-Alpes-Côte-d’Azur and Languedoc-Roussillon. Southern Côtes du Rhône and Northern Côtes du
Rhône stretch between Vienne and Avignon. The diversity and beauty of the countryside, with its classic
terraced vineyards, makes the Rhône Valley a first-choice destination, with some of its biggest names,
Côte Rôtie, Saint Joseph and Crozes-Hermitage, made from the Syrah grape.
For more information about Côtes du Rhône wines: www.vins-rhone.com
Savoie wines. A unique vineyard in the mountains of France, the Savoyard vineyard holds a
surprising number of titles. Between lakes and mountains, the 16 geographical areas and 22 crus reflect
the multitude of landscapes and climates that make up the area. It is this diversity that gives the wines
very different and distinct characteristics. Chignin, Marestel, Mondeuse and Jongieux are among those
that must be tried.
For more information about the wines of Savoie: www.vindesavoie.net/fr/index.htm
It is because of these renowned wines, as well as the many small vineyards that merit a visit, that the
Rhône-Alpes region is a leading destination for wine tourism. The Côte Roannaise, the Côtes du Forez in
the west and the wines of Bugey in the east are only some examples. In the south one will find the wines
of Diois in the Drôme, like the celebrated Clairette de Die: a sparkling, fruity wine! More subtly, the
vineyards contribute to the richness of the wine region and open their doors to visitors. Tourists can
enjoy visits with passionate wine makers off the beaten path.
Wine tourism is on the rise in the Rhône-Alpes region. With an allure that is growing and tourists who
are always eager to visit, small and large wineries alike open their doors for tastings, classes, workshops
and vineyard tours, with winemakers happy to share wine culture. The region is also home to a number
of museums dedicated to the traditions and knowledge of wine making.
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“Vignobles et Découvertes” label: a reference point. Introduced in 2009, the “Vignobles et
Découvertes” label is assigned by Atout France for a period of three years, with the goal of promoting
tourism surrounding the theme of wine and the vine. The dynamism and diversity of the Rhône-Alpes
region has been rewarded with seven designated destinations. Professionals have created a coherent
development strategy by adapting to the new expectations of tourists, offering much appreciated
vacations like the “Fascinating Vignobles et Découvertes Weekend,” a thematic and entertaining
weekend in the vineyards.
The seven Vignobles et Découvertes destinations in Rhône-Alpes:
« Beaujolais des Pierres Dorées » (Golden Stones of Beaujolais), 20 minutes from Lyon. The south of
Beaujolais, known for its villages made of yellow ochre stone (Oingt, Bagnols, Charnay), possesses a
particular type of subsoil that gives the wine richness and a specific taste.
www.tourismepierresdorees.com
“Condrieu-Côte-Rôtie”, less than 30 minutes from Lyon, on either side of the river. Visiting this
destination allows the opportunity to discover the AOC (origin controlled) wines of the same name: the
prestigious wines of Condrieu and Côte-Rôtie.
www.condrieu-coterotie.com
“D’Hermitage en Saint-Joseph”, at the centre of the northern vineyard of Côtes du Rhône. This
destination is known for three legendary titles: Hermitage, Saint-Joseph and Crozes-Hermitage.
www.hermitage-tournonais-tourisme.com/fr
“De Cornas en Saint- Péray”, in Ardèche. The three AOC wines of this area are Cornas, Saint-Péray and
Saint-Joseph.
www.rhone-crussol-tourisme.com
Drôme Provençale. Recently labelled, this new destination represents the southern-most part of the
region. The territory is known for the vineyards of Grignan-les-Adhémar, the Coteaux des Baronnies and
the southern Côtes du Rhône (Vinsobres).
www.dromeprovencale.fr
“Coeur de Savoie”, between Chambéry and Albertville. This destination has AOC wines from unique
types of grapes: Mondeuse, Jacquère and Altesse.
www.vignobles.tourisme.coeurdesavoie.fr
“Savoie – Lac du Bourget”, around the largest natural lake in France. The vineyard hills of the upper
Rhône and the shores of the lake house, among others, the Jongieux and Chautagne vineyards.
www.lacdubourget.fr
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I.RHÔNE-ALPES REGION: WINE TOURISM
BY STATISTICS
Fifth-ranked wine producing region by volume (except Cognac)
Production labelled higher than 90%
42 AOP (protected origin label) wines
14 Vin de Pays wines
Nearly 4,000 professional farms specializing in wine
More than 55,000 hectares of regional ground covered
Particularly prominent places:
Rhône : More than 50%
Drôme : 33%
Ardèche : 27%
Savoie : 16%
338 million Euros in revenue
1,212 wineries open to the public across the region
7 destinations with the “Vignobles et Découvertes” label, of the 50 in France
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II. WINE LOVERS: THE ATTRACTIONS OF
THE REGION
The vineyards that stretch over 55,000 hectares of regional territory lend themselves to walking. There
are so many routes to discover, like the Wine Routes. In the Côtes du Rhône vineyards, there are two
routes. The Safran route, a scenic route of the Côtes du Rhône region, goes from Vienne to
Saint-Julien-en-Saint-Alban, while the Mauve route, tourist route of the Côtes du Rhône in Drôme
Provençale, goes from Rochegude to Taulignan and Mollans-sur-Ouzève. In the Beaujolais vineyards, the
Beaujolais Wine Route connects Saint-Amour to the Pierres Dorées (Golden Stones), creating a route
with 12 titles along its course. All while discovering the vineyards of the region, visitors are able to
perfect their knowledge of wine tourism thanks to some beautiful sites:
Le Hameau Duboeuf (Beaujolais). With 100,000 visitors welcomed each year, the Hameau
Duboeuf is the premier wine park in Europe. A destination just as good for novices and families as for
great wine lovers, the park is divided into four themed sites: the wine hamlet, the wine station,
winemaking and the garden of Beaujolais. The adventure of wine and vine is told with the help of
holograms, production secrets, reproductions of miniature circuits and unusual attractions like the
Cine’Up, a dynamic theatre with simulators.
www.hameauduvin.com
M. Chapoutier Tasting School (Tain l’Hermitage). This 200-year-old property produces great
wines like Côte-Rôtie and Hermitage. For six years, the house has shown the quality of its wines to the
public through discovery workshops, bistro dinners or lunches and vineyard visits, with the objective of
making wine culture accessible to everyone.
www.chapoutier-ecole.com
Vineum Paul Jaboulet (Tain l’Hermitage). At the foot of the hill of Hermitage, the famous House
of Paul Jaboulet welcomes visitors for tastings of all kinds. Simultaneously a cellar, wine bar and
restaurant, the establishment illustrates the subtleties and flavours of the Côtes du Rhône through a
dinner or a wine workshop.
www.vineum.blogspot.fr
La Cave de Tain (Tain l’Hermitage). The first producer of Syrah in Europe, the Tain Winery makes
and markets five crus (Hermitage, Crozes-Hermitage, Saint Joseph, Cornas, and Saint-Péray) and Vins de
Pays on 1,000 hectares of vines. Founded more than 80 years ago, the cooperative winery shows its
wines during guided tours in French, English and German. In spring 2015, the winery will introduce a new
tourist circuit and a new boutique!
www.universite-du-vin.com
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University of Wine (Suze-la-Rousse). Installed in a castle during the 12th century, the University
of Wine offers a wide range of professional training related to the wine industry, like sommelier training,
wine merchant training and marketing. The centre of wine science also opens its doors to the public and
to tourists for many training courses. It’s the chance to spend a day studying wine, or a weekend tasting
wine with professionals, for an authentic training in the heart of the vines.
www.universite-du-vin.com
Néovinum (Ruoms). Occupying the space between virtual and reality, this destination for
discovering wine brings visitors into the universe of the Ardèche wines. A fun and interactive course
stretches across three sections—land, wine cellar and tastebuds—and introduces the public to the art of
wine, with the visit eventually ending in a tasting of three wines. In another room, games of
manipulation, coloring, puzzles, multimedia games and quizzes are available to keep the children
entertained.
www.neovinum.fr
House of Wine and Vine (Apremont). Created with a sustainable development approach, the
House of Wine and Vine was built to High Environmental Quality (HQE) standards. Between vines and
mountains, it is possible to learn about the wines of Savoie all while enjoying a beautiful panoramic view
in the tasting room, as well a wine room stocked with 150 types of wine made by 60 producers of
quality.
www.vindesavoie.net
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III. OUR FAVOURITES
Château de Pizay (Beaujolais). Converted into a four-star hotel, the Château de Pizay’s grounds
feature 80 hectares of vines producing the best crus of the region. After having discovered the park
through a historic wine course, visitors are able to lounge at upscale amenities offered by the castle,
such as an outdoor pool, gourmet restaurant and spa, for a stay of well-being and discovery.
www.hateau-pizay.com
Château de Bagnols (Beaujolais). In the heart of Golden Stones, this 13th century castle has
been transformed into a five-star hotel. The castle-hotel is now a haven with 27 apartments, a spa, a
gourmet restaurant and a bistro. It faces the vineyards of Beaujolais and welcomes private as well as
professional events.
www.chateaudebagnols.com
Les Sens’Ciel (Tournon sur Rhône). A wine expert and wine merchant, Marie-Josée Faure
organizes wine tourism presentations in French and English. Tasting workshops, meetings with local
winemakers or Segway rides in the vineyards and terraces of Côtes du Rhône mean the wines of the
region will keep no secrets from visitors.
www.vin-et-sens.com
La Cave Jaillance (Die). Thanks to a 45-minute guided visit of the Jaillance winery, visitors are
able to discover the secrets of the development of Clairette, a fruity sparkling wine. Made up of 220 wine
growers, this cooperative winery is seen as the leader of sparkling AOC wine (except Champagne).
Meanwhile, the Bubble Bar offers a free tasting of Jaillance’s line of sparkling wines.
www.caveau-jaillance.com
Alpes Flaveurs (Savoie). This agency, specializing in the benefits of wine, proposes the discovery
of wine culture in all its forms in the Savoie Vineyards. Available activities include excursions in the
vineyards on foot, on snowshoes or on horseback, flights by balloon or a journey by 2CV cars through the
agency Les Deuches du Lac. Bernard Vissoud, a mountain guide certified in wine culture and oenology
will be your guide for these activities.
www.alpes-flaveurs.com / www.lesdeuchesdulac.fr
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Rhône-Alpes, a gourmet destination
Fields, orchards, vineyards…considered the ‘pantry’ of France, the Rhône-Alpes region presents an
exceptionally diverse landscape, maintained by nearly 40,000 farms. Rhône-Alpes is home to an
explosion of natural flavours that will satisfy gourmet and foodies alike. Plentiful fruit trees and tasty
vegetables, chestnuts from Ardèche, walnuts from Grenoble and olives from Nyons contribute to the
region’s reputation as a land of abundance committed to responsible production methods. Rhône-Alpes
is indeed a remarkable place for experimenting with biological farming, and its livestock boasts great
vitality. In both the mountains and the plains of Forez, herds of cattle and goats generate high-quality
meats as well as abundant milk production, ideal material for a cheese industry with 15 AOP
(Origin-Protected) varieties. Other AOP products include chicken from Bresse, olives from Nyons and the
majority of cru wines made in Rhône-Alpes vineyards, from grape varieties like Gamay, Syrah and
Grenache. In total, the region boasts 71 Origin-Controlled wines, 59 of which are Origin-Protected, and
more than 50 Red Labels.
The French leader in specific areas like apricots, chestnuts, aromatic plants, walnuts and cheese, the
region’s land is an inexhaustible source of flavours and aromas, from the mountains of Savoie to the
orchards of the Rhône Valley. Tomme from Savoie, Rosette from Lyon, walnuts from Grenoble, poultry
from Bresse, truffles from Tricastin and black olives from Nyons are just some of the products that reveal
the richness of the Rhône-Alpes’ soil.
All of these excellent products, served at some of the region’s finest tables, are part of the Rhône-Alpes’
always-strong culinary reputation.
In 2015, René and Maxime Meilleur joined the exclusive circle of chefs with three Michelin stars,
alongside Michel Troisgros, Emmanuel Renaut, Anne-Sophie Pic, Georges Blanc and Paul Bocuse,
ambassadors of a Rhône-Alpes culinary art that has been lauded by gourmets around the world for
centuries. All in all, Rhône-Alpes is home to 82 Michelin-starred restaurants.
Favourites
Bouchons lyonnais
These small restaurants which have helped to establish Lyon’s culinary reputation right across the globe,
are an unmissable part of any visit to the city. They keep alive culinary traditions handed down over the
centuries and have now become an integral part of Lyon’s cultural heritage. The term ’bouchon’
originated from the bundle of twigs which restaurant owners hung on their doors as restaurant signs.
Nowadays, these traditional restaurants, with all their conviviality and authenticity, attract mainly
tourists. And the secrets of their success? A friendly, attractive environment (a large bar, wooden
furniture, closely packed tables, red and white checked tablecloths, blackboard menu, copper pans and
old posters on the walls...), a warm family atmosphere hosted by the owner, a menu of Lyon specialties
predominantly based on pork dishes and offal (Lyon saveloys, marbled calf’s liver, andouillettes
(sausages), chicken liver terrine...), as well as quenelles (meat or fish dumplings), cervelle de canuts
(cheese dip), praline tart... All washed down, of course, with a pitcher of local wine - either Beaujolais or
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Côte du Rhône. This unique and typically Lyon establishment now has its own quality label, promoted by
the Les Bouchons Lyonnais association. The aim of the quality label is to champion and protect “the
authentic Lyon bouchon”, in other words, to showcase and promote establishments which respect the
unique values of the bouchon, namely high quality products, cuisine and hospitality... Restaurants which
apply for this recognition must fulfill approximately twenty different criteria. In Lyon, there are currently
some twenty restaurants which hold the “Les Bouchons Lyonnais” label.
For a full list of these establishments visit: www.lesbouchonslyonnais.org
Bistrots de Pays
A meeting place and social centre, but also a local business, the bistrot represents a part of the identity
and very soul of French villages. And, for tourists passing through a region, it is the perfect place to
discover the typically French ’art de vivre’ in a rural environment. To support and champion the services
of independent bistro owners throughout France, a Bistrot de Pays quality label was created in 1993. The
National Bistrots de Pays Federation now includes 250 accredited establishments throughout France,
including approximately fifty in the Rhône-Alpes region, namely the Drôme, Ardèche, Isère and Loire
departments. To be awarded this label, applicants must sign a charter indicating their commitment to
respect certain criteria: remaining open for business all year, being located in a rural commune with
fewer than 2,000 residents, offering family dining based on regional produce, serving as a tourist
information point...
For a full list of these establishments visit: www.bistrotdepays.com
Cookery courses
For those who would like to learn the basics of French cooking during their visit, a large number of
cookery schools throughout the region organise courses of different durations for individuals. Schools in
Lyon include:
• Délicieusement Vôtre which offers various options: immersion workshops, taster sessions, themed
courses, courses for children…) www.delicieusementvotre.com
• In Cuisine which is based on an original concept, combining a bookshop, a delicatessen, a tearoom and
a cookery school (for adults, teenagers, children, special events…)
www.incuisine.fr
• Plum Teaching Kitchen, a school run by an American lady, a trained pastry chef, who offers cookery
classes in English (visit to the market in the morning followed by classes in the afternoon, Lyon
specialities, pastry-making classes…) www.plumlyon.com
The Halles de Lyon – Paul Bocuse (covered food markets). A true temple of French cuisine, this
international institution in Lyon attracts epicureans from the whole world due to the quality of its
products. Renowned oyster, fish, produce and meat merchants, caterers, bakers and pastry chefs gather
there.
www.hallespaulbocuse.lyon.fr
Valrhona, the Cité du Chocolat (Chocolate Museum). Housed in the historic Valrhona chocolate
factory in Tain l’Hermitage, the Cité du Chocolat is meant for the discovery of behind-the-scenes
pleasures of chocolate making. To do: gourmet and culinary films, exhibits, interactive events and guided
workshops that lead visitors along the path of taste, production and material.
www.citeduchocolat.com
22
The Chestnut Museum in Joyeuse (Ardèche). Ardèche is the premier chestnut-producing
department in France, accounting for 5,000 tonnes, or 50% of the national production, each year. There
are 65 Origin-Controlled varieties of Ardèche chestnuts, and the best-known are Camballe, Merle,
Bouche Rouge and Précoce des Vans. The chestnut harvest takes place in autumn and inspires many
chestnut festivals, called “castagnades,” from mid-October to mid-November. Chestnuts are the basis of
many products: fresh chestnuts, dried chestnuts, chestnut meal, chestnut flour and chestnut purée, for
example. And don’t forget Ardèche candied chestnuts, a popular delicacy eaten around Christmas time.
The Chestnut Museum in Joyeuse, naturally, is devoted to the iconic fruit and serves as a testimony to
the “breadfruit” that has united people for centuries.
For more information about Ardèche chestnuts: www.chataigne-ardeche.com
La Maison de la Truffe et du Tricastin in Saint-Paul-Trois- Châteaux (Drôme). Tricastin is the
foremost region for truffle production in France. In Saint-Paul-Trois-Châteaux, the Maison de la Truffe et
du Tricastin invites visitors to discover the mysterious world of the Black Truffle, of which Tricastin is one
of the leading producers. The truffle harvest takes place in winter, from mid-November to mid-March.
Accompanied by a dog (or, more rarely, a pig), truffle farmers search the land for a black diamond. The
farmer watches the dog’s behaviour and intervenes when it’s time to dig up and pick the tuber,
rewarding the dog once the truffle is found. This clever smell-based approach to finding truffles is called
“le cavage.” One can also participate in a “truffle weekend” offered by local guest houses from
mid-November to mid-March.
www.truffle-and-truffe.com
Montélimar nougat (Drôme). Though it is part of the 13 desserts of Christmas, this delicious
confection is available for more than just the end of year holidays—it can be enjoyed during any season.
Montélimar is without doubt the capital of nougat. There are about 15 factories and a dozen artisan
producers in Montélimar, almost all of which are open for visits. The oldest factory is worth a trip:
Arnaud Soubeyran, an artisan producer, has been open since 1837.
www.montelimar-tourisme.com
Nyonsais Cooperative — Espace Vignolis in Nyons. Espace Vignolis allows visitors to discover
the rich tastes of the region’s AOP and IGP wines, olive oils and Nyons olives. One can also discover the
heritage associated with olive growing at the Olive Musuem. Founded in 1923, the Nyonsais Cooperative
today consists of more than 100 members. It collects and processes the grapes from 1,400 hectares of
vines, producing Vinsobres, Côtes du Rhône Village and Côtes du Rhône Crus and Baronnies Wines of the
Country. It also harvests olives from 600 hectares of trees for olive and olive oil production. Vignolis is
truly a modern and lively showcase of the beautiful Drôme Provencal region.
www.vignolis.fr
Le Grand Séchoir, house of Grenoble walnuts in Vinay (Isère). Grenoble walnuts have had an
Origin-Controlled label since 1938. Harvested in September, the three varieties of AOC Grenoble walnuts
(Franquette, Maillette and Parisienne) are eaten fresh and dried, but also in walnut wines, powders and
other foods, and are excellent for your health. At an ancient farm with a walnut dryer called the “Grand
Séchoir” in Vinay, in the heart of South Grésivaudan walnut country, there is also a museum devoted to
Grenoble walnuts! Here, agriculture is primarily focused on nuciculture (the production of walnuts). The
23
Isère Valley is covered with a walnut forest, and South Grésivaudan holds roughly 70% of the walnut
orchards in the Rhône-Alpes region.
www.legrandsechoir.fr
Le Temple du Fromage des Alpes in Lugrin (Savoie Mont Blanc). It was necessary to dedicate a
site to the numerous cheeses of Savoie and Haute-Savoie—like abondance, reblochon and Savoie
tomme—and that goal was accomplished with the temple of cheese located in Lugrin, beside Lake
Geneva in Haute-Savoie. In addition to a store where one can find Savoie specialties (wines of the
country and natural products), there is a museum for learning about the cheese making process, from
cattle tending to the finished product. Finally, there’s a tasting restaurant dedicated to cheese, serving
Savoie fondue and raclette.
www.temple-du-fromage.com
Beaufortain cheese and dairy cooperative in Beaufort. This sensory exhibit shows off all the
secrets of Beaufort and its land using tools like smelling stations, models, sounds and films. Visitors can
see Beaufort cheese being made every day from 9 a.m. to noon (except Sundays and school vacations).
The route starts in the basement and ends with seeing all the steps of the production process.
www.cooperative-de-beaufort.com
Reblochon Fermier Cooperative in Thônes. Located in Thônes, the Reblochon Cooperative
collects essential local products, like reblochon fermier and tomme cheese. The Reblochon Fermier
Cooperative, created in 1971, today specialises in the promotion and marketing of Reblochon producers.
It focuses on the reception of the cheeses, local production, packaging and shipping and cheese making
centres and administrative offices.
www.reblochon-thones.com
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IV. TO GO FURTHER
On wine tourism in the Rhône-Alpes: www.inrhonealpes.com (Press section)
On the vineyards of the Rhône-Alpes: www.baladesduvin.com
On the Rhône-Alpes TV channel: saveurs.rhonealpes.tv / discover.rhonealpes.tv
The Rhône-Alpes wine tourism and gastronomy Twitter account: twitter.com/WineandFood_RA
Selection of photos:
www.phototheque.rhonealpes-tourisme.com
> Section “Ambiance, Art of Life, Gastronomy” > “Gastronomy and wines”
Contacts
Martine BRIDIER
+33 (0)4 26 73 31 76
martine.bridier@rhonealpes-tourisme.com
Isabelle FAURE
+33 (0)4 26 73 31 77
isabelle.faure@rhonealpes-tourisme.com
25
ViaRhôna,
the new cycling route from Lake Geneva
to the Mediterranean Sea
26
ViaRhôna is a700km greenway bicycle route that runs from Lake Geneva to the Mediterranean Sea,
traversing three regions: Rhône-Alpes, Languedoc-Roussillon and Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur. Though
ViaRhôna is a true opportunity for tourists to discover the beauty of the region, it is above all a real
economic and local development tool for the Rhône-Alpes region in terms of green transport.
Three-hundred and five kilometres of the route, or 70%, is already passable in the Rhône Alpes, giving an
early taste of the finished project that will eventually be accessible to everyone. The road signs for the
entire route, permanent or temporary, will be in place for summer 2016. In 2017, 445km of the route in
the Rhône Alpes region will be finished, and the finalisation of the entire project is predicted for 2020.
The goal is to make the ViaRhôna a destination unto itself, with infrastructure permitting it to take its
place among the best European tourist routes. As such, the Rhône-Alpes region has made ViaRhôna a
high priority project in terms of cultural issues, tourism and environmentalism.
Cultural objectives. At the heart of trade between Northern Europe and the Mediterranean, the
Rhône holds years of history on its shores. Thus, ViaRhôna must be a true path through civilizations,
allowing visitors to revisit their origins from the prehistoric times all the way up to contemporary times.
The archaeological sites of Lyon and Saint-Romain-en-Gal – Vienne are good ways to do so. All along the
Rhône route one will find works of art, museums and monuments paying reference to the culture of
Rhône—its backwaters, its fauna, its flora, its locks and its memorable floods make up part of a heritage
shared across the region.
Touristic objectives. ViaRhôna creates a link between very different forms of tourism—cultural,
patrimonial, natural, culinary and wine—and facilitates the discovery, or the rediscovery, of the diversity
of the region. From the Savoyard wine country to the urban banks of Lyon, on to hilltop villages or the
castle of Tournon in Ardèche, ViaRhôna is a wonderful opportunity to roam through the touristic wealth
of the region in a fun and family-friendly way.
Environmental objectives. A true opportunity for pedestrian and non-motorised transport,
ViaRhôna allows walkers to explore the region’s nature reserves and exceptional landscapes. Eco-friendly
travelling can be done by bicycle, but just as well on foot, by canoe or kayak or by stand-up paddleboard,
modes of transport that highlight the nautical and fishing activities of the river and the local agricultural
and wine products of the Rhône-Alpes.
More about bicycle tourism in France: a promising market. France, which is in second place
worldwide for bicycle tourism, is the ideal country for housing this type of project, especially on the
shores of its third-largest river. Cycling, the second-most popular sport practiced on holiday, promises
important economic advances, notably thanks to an elongation of the tourist season. The region
continues to attract tourists of all ages and of all backgrounds who are sensitive to ecology and
interested in discovering new regions, landscapes, cultures and people.
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I. VIARHÔNA BY STATISTICS
1 common logo
3 regions connected (Rhône-Alpes, Languedoc-Roussillon and Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur)
12 departments traversed (Haute-Savoie, Savoie, Ain, Isère, Rhône, Loire, Drôme, Ardèche,
Vaucluse, Bouches-du-Rhône, Gard, Hérault)
222 cities and towns to discover
700km of cyclable road from Lake Geneva to the Mediterranean Sea
ViaRhôna in practice:
3 regional tourism committees involved (Rhône-Alpes, Languedoc-Roussillon, PACA)
12 departmental tourism organisations involved
55 tourism offices involved
105km of path in Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, 15% of the route
140km of path in Languedoc-Roussillon, 20% of the route
445km of path in Rhône-Alpes, 65% of the route
Currently, in the Rhône-Alpes region:
415km of path, with 305km already finished, comprising 70% of the route
143km of greenway
90km on shared roads
152km of provisional route
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II. MUST-VISIT
RHÔNE-ALPES
SIGHTS
IN
THE
Seyssel. Between the Grand Colombier Mountains and Prince Mountain, Seyssel invites visitors
to enjoy the Rhône’s nature through activities like fishing, sailing and swimming on the river.
www.cc-pays-de-seyssel.fr/communes/seyssel-haute-savoie.html
Chanaz. The little “Venice of Savoie” is situated on the side of one of the most beautiful canals in
France: the Savières canal, which connects the Rhône to Lake Bourget. Between its authenticity and its
friendliness, the floral commune evokes serenity and simplicity.
www.chanaz.fr
Lyon. With Michelin starred restaurants all over old Lyon, fine diners are spoilt for choice. A visit
is an opportunity to appreciate both the diverse architecture of the city and the quarters classified as
World Heritage sites by UNESCO. Visitors can also visit the Confluence Museum, which opened its doors
in December 2014. A building that is unique for its view of the intersection between the Rhône and the
Saône and its futuristic architecture. The Confluence Museum explores Earth from its beginnings,
covering the history of humanity and geography. The museum houses a collection of more than 2.2
million pieces assembled little by little to create a history of half a millennium, from the 17 th to the 21st
century.
www.en.lyon-france.com ; www.museedesconfluences.fr
Vienne and Saint-Romain-en-Gal. Rich with 2,500 years of history, the two cities constitute a trip
back in time. On both sides of the Rhône, the archaeological sites, ancient monuments and museums
reveal history to visitors.
www.en.vienne-tourisme.com ; www.musees-gallo-romains.com
The wines of Côtes du Rhône: The region’s vineyards are spread between Northern and
Southern Côtes du Rhône and extend from Vienne to Avignon. The diversity and beauty of the landscape,
with its classic terraced vineyards, make the Rhône Valley a first-choice destination, with some of its
biggest names—Côte Rôtie, Saint Joseph and Crozes-Hermitage—made from the Syrah grape. The
territory has three destinations accessible from ViaRhôna that have been honoured with the Vignobles
et Découvertes label:

“De L’Hermitage en Saint-Joseph”, at the centre of the northern vineyard of Côtes du Rhône.
This destination is known for three prestigious titles: l’Hermitage, Saint-Joseph and
Crozes-Hermitage.

« De Cornas en Saint-Péray », in Ardèche. Encircling the hilltop villages of Ardèche, the vineyard
is a huge presence in the town. The three AOC wines of the destination are Cornas, Saint-Péray
and Saint-Joseph.
29

“Condrieu Côte-Rôtie”, less than 30 minutes from Lyon. On both sides of the river, beautiful
terraced vineyards produce celebrated AOC wines like Condrieu and Côte-Rôtie.
www.rhone-wines.com
Tournon and Tain L’Hermitage. Tournon, nestled on one side of the riverbank, is a charming
southern town with its own museum-castle. On both sides of the river, Tain L’Hermitage offers visitors
the chance to discover some famous vineyards. Chocolate lovers will take a detour to the chocolate
museum, Valrhôna in Tain L’Hermitage, for a visit full of flavours and surprises.
www.hermitage-tournonais-tourisme.com/en
Valence. A typical city of the South of France, Valence has been able to maintain its authenticity:
colourful markets, gardens and narrow streets give a preview of Provence. Water jousting is the oldest
sporting event in the city, taking place nestled against the Rhône. At the heart of the town, the museum
of fine arts houses many centuries of works, many of them inspired by the lovely regional landscapes.
www.hermitage-tournonais-tourisme.com/en
Montélimar. A stop in the nougat capital, also nicknamed “Door to Provence,” provides the
opportunity to discover the universe of lavender: harvest, varieties, uses and more.
www.montelimar-tourisme.com/en
Viviers. As the historic capital of Vivarais, this town has a strong cultural heritage and many
natural riches, like the sumptuous Viviers Cathedral that sits above the city on its rocky peak.
www.mairie-viviers.fr/fr
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III. OUR FAVOURITES
Sports favourites: ViaRhôna crosses the Upper Bugey, a territory known for its unmatched views
of the mountain ranges overlooking the Rhône. Trade your bicycle for a canoe or kayak for a few hours
to explore the wild Rhône in the Brégnier-Cordon nature reserve. From vineyards to birds and beavers,
nature is always there waiting to be discovered.
www.en.viarhona.com/ideas-course/nature-activities
Nature favourites: The many diverse nature sites situated on the riverbanks, backwaters,
marshes and islands of the region offer beautiful spots for nature walks, with a chance to discover
wildlife like beavers, dragonflies, kingfishers and greenbacks.
www.en.viarhona.com/preparing-viarhona/nature-on-the-rhone
Favourite historical sites: A genuine path through civilizations, the banks of the Rhône boast
many artifacts left by people over the centuries. The Gallo-Roman site of Saint-Romain-en-Gal—Vienna is
the perfect example: the temple of Auguste and Livie, the archaeological garden of Cybèle, the old
theatre or the open-air museum are all sites that warrant a viist.
www.musees-gallo-romains.com/saint_romain_en_gal/presentation
Two routes for touring the area: The greenway bicycle road of the Isère Valley and the Dolce Via
in Ardèche are two pedestrian routes connected to the ViaRhôna that allow for discovering other areas.

The Greenway Bike Road of the Isère Valley, which crosses ViaRhôna at Châteauneuf-sur-Isère,
connects Drôme to Savoie via Chambéry and Grenoble in 42km. The route runs along the Isère
and crosses it four times, spanning a multitude of charming villages like La Baume d’Hostin, a
flowery village with cobbled streets, or Saint-Nazaire-en-Royans, a medieval village where you
can find an aqueduct and prehistoric caves.
www.romans-tourisme.com/en/heritage/natural/veloroute-bike-and-green-trail

The Dolce Via, a pedestrian route in the Eyrieux Valley, first connects to the ViaRhôna at
Voulte-sur-Rhône. Following the path of the ancient regional railroad, it connects
St-Laurent-du-Pape to Cheylard in 45km. The agricultural and industrial past of the valley is there
to be discovered all along the route, which runs through wild landscapes, fruit tree farms and
ancient structures.
www.en.ardeche-guide.com/search/node/dolce%20via
Two unusual ways to marry wine and traveling: In Tournon-sur-Rhône, the Sens'Ciel
offers introductory tastings and walks in the vineyards. At Tain l’Hermitage “Des terrasses du
Rhône au sommelier” makes it possible to discover the picturesque vineyards of l’Hermitage by
electric bicycle, with tastings in between.
www.vin-et-sens.com / www.ausommelier.com
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IV. TO GO FURTHER
Get to know ViaRhôna on these social resources:


Facebook: www.facebook.com/via.rhona?fref=ts
Twitter: www.twitter.com/ViaRhona
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Rhône-Alpes TV channel: www.viarhona.tv
Selection of photos: www.phototheque.rhonealpes-tourisme.com
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Contacts
Julia Grunert
Raphaëlle Nicaise
+33 (0)4 26 73 31 85
+33 (0)4 26 73 31 84
raphaelle.nicaise@rhonealpes-tourisme.com
julia.grunert@rhonealpes-tourisme.com
32
Mountains: The natural splendor
of the
Rhône-Alpes
33
Rich with an amazing diversity of landscapes, the Rhône-Alpes region features three mountain ranges:
the Alps, the Jura and the Massif Central. Also home to two national parks and eight regional parks, wild,
unspoiled spaces of flourishing biodiversity, the region can count nature as one of its major assets.
Rhône-Alpes is renowned for its mountainous areas, where visitors will encounter rare flora and fauna. A
wealth of outdoor activities are also available, whatever the season. Here are a few examples of the
most emblematic landscapes in the region:
The Alps. Forming a 1200km-long wall from the Mediterranean to Danube, the French Alps
include 24 peaks of over 4000m, such as the Aiguilles Vertes, the Drus or the Grandes Jorasses. The Alps
are a real playing field for outdoor sports lovers, popular with hikers, cyclists, skiers and snowboarders all
year long.
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. Home to an internationally-renowned ski resort, Chamonix is a vibrant
commune with beautiful examples of 19th century architecture. Numerous tourist amenities, ski slopes
and difficult hiking paths all contribute to the popularity of the resort, as does its proximity to
Mont-Blanc. The highest peak in Western Europe, Mont-Blanc attracts a number of adventurers and
visitors from around the world. The first ever Winter Olympic Games were held in Chamonix in 1924.
Annecy. Surrounded by beautiful lakes and mountains, Annecy is another of the most popular
destinations in the Rhône-Alpes region. At the nearby Aravis mountain range, ski resorts have conserved
their traditional character. Visitors to Annecy have a huge choice of activities, from visiting cultural
heritage sites to winter sports and watersports on Lake Annecy, considered one of the purest lakes in
Europe due to strict preservation rules which have been in place for the last 60 years.
The fragility of the Rhône-Alpes’ natural heritage makes the environment an important issue. Regional
authorities have taken the necessary steps to maintain a balance between development and protection
of the mountains ever since the ‘Mountain Law’ of 1985 was introduced. Preservation of architectural
heritage, landscapes and natural spaces is a priority, with measures taken to manage water and energy
resources, and to educate people about these dangers through the ‘Destination Parcs’ project.
‘Destination Parcs’: new kinds of mountain holiday experience
The ‘Destination Parcs’ collaborative project, born from the union of four regional parks (Bauges,
Vercors, Chartreuse and Baronnies Provençales ), gives tourists a new approach to their stay in the
mountains. The project aims to encourage visitors to take ‘experiential holidays’ to enjoy the mountain
settings outside of the traditionally popular winter months. These trips will allow tourists to learn about
the natural heritage of the region, as well as ecological issues. Examples include outdoor activities and
unique experiences like collecting honey with a beekeeper, studying the geography of the area, hiking
with donkeys or discovering the Milky Way. The dedicated website www.destination-parcs.fr has been set
up, currently listing 11 different options for immersive holidays. Visitors to the site respond to a series of
questions and will be directed towards the options that best match their preferences.
34
Winter in Rhône-Alpes
As the global leader in mountain tourism, the Rhône-Alpes region includes the largest skiable area in the
world: 16 connected ski areas including the Three Valleys (600km of slopes covering Courchevel,
Méribel, Les Ménuires and Val Thorens) and Paradiski (connecting Les Arcs, Peisey-Vallandry and La
Plagne), both of which offer a huge range of activities, such as alpine skiing, Nordic skiing, snowboarding,
sledding, dogsledding, bobsleighding, hiking and snowshoeing. Each year, Arêches Beaufort hosts the
Pierra Menta, a huge and highly-challenging four-day ski mountaineering competition. Participants
attach climbing skins to their skis in order to climb the slopes, before removing them for the descent
through rocks and trees. Meanwhile, the La Plagne bobsleigh track is open to the public in the evenings
from 5pm onwards.
www.pierramenta.com / www.la-plagne.com
The 160 ski resorts in Rhône-Alpes welcome all kinds of visitors. For example, Le Grand Bornand
organises a number of activities with families in mind, while the Tignes resort is well-known for its
sporting facilities and its liveliness. Visitors to Brides-les-Bains are always pampered and can enjoy
rejuvenating spa treatments. There are seven main types of resort from which travellers can chooses,
offering a different stay to suit everyone. Village resorts, typically set at the heart of a preserved
environment, offer an authentic holiday experience, while the Grand Domain resorts, with their
interconnected ski areas, give sports lovers access to a multitude of slopes through a single pass. The
Nouvelle Glisse resorts have facilities in place for many new winter sports, like snowparks and boarder
cross tracks. The Family Plus resorts are designed for family holidays, and the Nordic Resorts are the
destination of choice for those who specialise in Nordic skiing. Club Resorts offer modern facilities and a
range of post-ski activities. Meanwhile, Altiforme Resorts offer spa treatments.
The mountains in all seasons
Although certain mountain activities are seasonal, others can be practised all year long, regardless of the
visitor’s skill level. Cycling lovers have many choices, from the coastal mountains of Ain, Isère,
Haute-Savoie and Savoie to the Mille Etangs and the flat country roads of Dombes, not to mention the
numerous developments for mountain biking in the resorts. The region’s 43,000km of walking trails will
also fulfill hikers. The region is also a hiker’s paradise and home to many trails, including the GR5, the
most challenging hiking trail in France! It spans the region from Lake Geneva to Briançon and passes by
peaks and glaciers at heights of up to 3000m. All together, Rhône-Alpes contains 43,000km of trails,
including the path from Giono to Provencal Drôme, which crosses the Ardèche Plateau, the peak of
Needle Mountain in Vercors and the peak of the Dents Blanches. Reaching the top of Mont Blanc is also
not as difficult as one might think, with a high proportion of the ascent possible through hiking, as
opposed to mountaineering.
While many resorts and parks have introduced dedicated climbing areas, mountaineering remains one of
the region’s premiere adventure sports, with some extremely demanding environments.
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is an absolute must for mountaineers due to its proximity to some of the most
challenging summits.
35
The Rhône-Alpes mountains are also characterised by the vital presence of water. The countryside is
covered by lakes and rivers, further expanding the range of sporting activities open to visitors, such as
rafting, canoeing, kayaking, windsurfing, canyoning, swimming and fishing. Rafting in the Isére River is
ideal for thrill seekers, while rowers are welcomed to Lake Aiguebelette, the third-largest natural lake in
France.
36
I. RHÔNE-ALPES: THE MOUNTAINS BY
STATISTICS
A biodiversity to protect:
2 national parks: Vanoise, Ecrins (The Cévennes national park is also partially in Rhône-Alpes,
touching some towns in Ardèche)
8 regional parks: Bauges, Vercors, Chartreuse, Monts d’Ardèche, Baronnies, Pilat, Haut Jura and
Livradois Forez
3 mountain ranges: the Alps, the Jura and the Massif Central, which represent 65% of the land in
the Rhône-Alpes region
50% of French plant species are present in Ecrins Park
The mountains are the most visited space in the Rhône-Alpes with 50% of overnights (over the
entire year)
The biggest ski area in the world:
First-place destination for mountains in France (65% of stays)
Winter tourism: 60 million overnights to the mountains
37% market share
4000km² of glaciers
160 ski resorts
16 connected ski areas
7 major types of resorts:
46 Grand Domaine resorts: Val Thorens, Val d’Isère, La Plagne, Courchevel, l’Alpe
d’Huez…
47 village resorts: Megève, Villard de Lans, Combloux, les Gets, Champagny in Vanoise…
31 Nouvelle glisse resorts: Avoriaz, les Contamines, Tignes…
5 Club resorts: Les Menuires, Valmeiner, le Corbier, La Tania…
20 Nordic resorts: Autrans, les Saisies, Saint Pierre de Chartreuse…
3 Altiforme resorts: Saint Gervais les Bains, Brides-les-Bains and Saint François
Longchamp
29 Family Plus resorts: le Grand Bornand, La Clusaz, les Karellis, Valmorel, the 2 Alps…
37
II. THE MUST-SEE SIGHTS OF THE REGION
Sites and activities not to be missed:
Lakes and mountains of Annecy. Close to the pretty city of Annecy, the Aravis Mountains house
some of the oldest ski resorts in France, which have managed to keep their charm of yesteryear and
avoid overdevelopment. In the southeast, Lake Annecy allows for sailing, windsurfing and fishing, or
cycling or roller skating on the bike bath that surrounds it. Bordering the lake, the Abbaye de Talloires,
dating back to the 17th century, has been transformed into a charming four-star hotel that is worth
visiting.
www.aravis.com / www.lac-annecy.com / www.abbaye-talloires.com
Hike on a glacier. From June to September, the 4000 km² of glaciers in the region provide a way
to hike accompanied by a high mountain guide. Walkers are also able to explore the mysterious beauty
of the glaciers and enjoy panoramic views from their summits.
www.guides-du-montblanc.com
The gorges of Chassezac. Between the Massif Central and the Cévennes, the gorges of Chassezac
in Ardèche form one of the most impressive canyons in the region. The site offers a large range of
outdoor activities, like rock climbing, canyoning and mountain biking, all of which are environmentally
friendly! There are also a number of exceptional views to be discovered there.
www.ardeche-guide.com/les-gorges-du-chassezac
Paragliding. Paragliding is the can’t-miss activity of the region. With more than 160 paragliding
clubs and 70 paragliding schools, one is sure to be accompanied by qualified guides in order to enjoy the
sites and experience with confidence. Less adventurous visitors can watch the professionals at the Icare
Cup, an internationally-known free flight event held each year in Saint-Hilaire-du-Touvet.
www.coupe-icare.org
38
III. OUR FAVOURITES
Some unique activities:
Spend a night in an igloo. After hiking the magnificent, snowy countryside of Vanoise, a village of
igloos waits for adventurers to live out an unforgettable Nordic experience: a night in an authentic, 7m²
igloo made completely of snow.
www.alpes-bivouac.com
Dive under the ice. In Chamrousse or Tignes, many of the region’s lakes allow visitors to dive for
sessions of 20 or 30 minutes. Under the ice, bubbles, lights and colors offer visitors an incredible
experience.
www.divextreme.fr / www.tignes.net
Look for an eagle from the zipline in Val Thorens. The highest zip line in the world travels across
some of the most beautiful glacial sites in Savoie. It is a 1300m flight at the highest point of the Three
Valleys in Orelle, connecting the Val Thorens ridge to the summit of Funitel de Thorens.
www.valthorens.com/hiver-fr/val-thorens/evenements-et-activites/activites-sportives/la-tyrolienne.644.html
Terre Vivante. The ecological park in Mens allow visitors to take a trip around its gardens and
exhibits about habitats and water management, a fun way to discover the benefits and best practices of
an eco-friendly lifestyle! A number of activities are also planned for children.
www.terrevivante.org
The most beautiful views:
La Mer de Glace (The sea of ice). Among the Mont-Blanc, Vanoise, Haute Maurienne and Ecrins
mountains there are 400km² of glaciers, like the Mer de Glace, the largest glacier in France. It is
accessible by the Montenvers train and offers an incomparable view of the surrounding countryside.
The Brévent cable car. Connecting Planpraz to the summit of Brévent, the cable car offers a
beautiful view of Chamonix and the surrounding mountains. At the summit, visitors can enjoy a meal
while admiring unique views of the Mont-Blanc range.
‘Le Pas dans le Vide’. The highest attraction in Europe is situated in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, on
the terrace of the Aiguille du Midi at an altitude of 3842m! The simple glass box allows visitors a unique
experience, perched above a void 1000m below that opens up right below their feet, thanks to the glass
floor.
www.compagniedumontblanc.fr
39
IV. TO GO FURTHER
For all knowledge about the mountains of the Rhône-Alpes:
Rhône-Alpes TV channel: www.montagne.rhonealpes.tv: discover.rhonealpes.tv
Selection of photos: www.phototheque.rhonealpes-tourisme.com
Contacts
Annie Martinez
+33 (0)4 26 73 31 75
annie.martinez@rhonealpes-tourisme.com
Céline Gomes
+33 (0)4 26 73 31 68
celine.gomes@rhonealpes-tourisme.com
40
A remarkable cultural treasure
41
The cultural heritage of the Rhône-Alpes region presents infinite richness.
The first recorded human masterpiece, dating back 36,000 years, is located in Rhône-Alpes. As a matter
of fact, it is in the heart of Ardèche, in the decorated cave of Pont d’Arc, where one can find the first
traces of man: paintings of mammoths, rhinoceroses and lions cave cover the walls, creating one of the
first known human works of art. In Vienne, bordering the Rhône, the ruins of an entire Roman city have
been discovered. Ruins can also be found in Lyon, where the Gallo-Roman theatre of Fourvière still
hosts cultural events. Medieval villages, abbeys, monasteries and castles are still intact, all of them
remains of the region’s history. Architectural heritage and Renaissance-era silk markets are also still
present in the Red Cross and Old Lyon areas, while the industrial-class city of Saint-Etienne has
succeeded in evolving its design history, culminating in the creation of the City of Design and its futuristic
architecture.
The richness of the region’s history has been recognised by UNESCO. On December 5, 1998, a section of
Lyon (427 hectares large) was given World Heritage status: Old Lyon, the hill of Fourvière, the Red Cross
area and Presqu’île, the central part of the city. In November 2010, Saint-Etienne joined the UNESCO
Creative Cities Network. The city has set up an ambitious strategy for urban redevelopment and hosts
the Biennial International Design festival every other year. In June 2014, the Chauvet Cave was named a
World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
Home to many artists, Rhône-Alpes is notably the birthplace of the ‘seventh art’ thanks to brothers
Auguste and Louis Lumière. Cinema is now celebrated every year during the Lumière Festival in Lyon, as
well as several other villages in the region like Annecy, which hosts the Animated Film Festival, and Arcs,
which hosts the Festival of European Cinema. Art in all its forms is honoured all year long. Vibrant
shows, artistic creations, concerts and hundreds of festivals enrich the cultural life of the region all year.
The latest addition to this impressive array of cultural attractions is the Confluence Museum, which
opened in December 2014. This science centre and anthropology museum features collections themed
on four different ‘acts’ in the history of the universe: Origins, the stories of the world; Societies, the
theatre of man; Species, the mesh of living; and Eternity, visions of the future. April 2015 marks the
opening of the la Caverne du Pont d’Arc, a museum featuring a replica of the Chauvet Cave, as well as
other exhibitions.
42
I. CULTURE IN RHÔNE-ALPES: KEY
STATISTICS
Cultural sites
108 cultural sites in the region receive more than 10,000 visitors per year, with 3.9 million total entries in
2013
All types of cultural attractions can be found in Rhône-Alpes, including archaeological sites and museums,
castles, eco-museums, art and popular culture museums, fine arts museums, military and memorial sites,
natural history museums.
The biggest cultural sites in 2013 were:









Lyon Fine Arts Museum: 331,447 visitors
Grenoble Museum: 196,007 visitors
Lumière Institute in Lyon (excluding Lumière Festival): 185, 828 visitors
Grignan Castle: 169, 497 visitors
Aven d'Orgnac – cave and prehistoric city: 152,581 visitors
Ideal Palace of Postman Cheval: 150, 864 visitors
Lyon Miniature and Cinema Museum: 150, 425 visitors
Lyon Contemporary Art Museum: 147, 030 visitors
Gadagne Museum in Lyon : 102, 804 visitors
Parties and festivals
180 cultural festivals take place throughout the region, including:
 111 live shows
 31 film festivals
 33 book festivals
Cities and Lands of Art & History
13 are located in Rhône-Alpes
The label is given to promote and celebrate architecture and heritage, and suggests activities for
discovering it (guided visits, exhibits, educational services, etc.) to tourists.
Historic monuments
2,390 protected historic monuments
Source: Departmental Monitoring of Rhône-Alpes and DRAC
43
II. MUST-SEE SITES AND MUSEUMS
The heritage of Rhône-Alpes is ready to be discovered in all of its departments, with the region boasting
caves, castles, famous people’s houses, abbeys, monasteries and museums that all carry the history of
the region.
Museums
The city of Lyon has an animated cultural life. One of the largest museums in France can be found in the
centre of Lyon: The Fine Arts Museum, which welcomes visitors to its magnificent 17th century building.
On the inside, 70 rooms invite visitors to travel through history, from antiquities to modern art. The
collection of paintings includes works from some of the finest artists in the world, like Rubens, Monet
and Picasso. On the other side of the Rhône, Gadagne is an edifice emblematic of Renaissance
architecture. It houses the Lyon History Museum and the World Puppet Museum. The Lumière
Institute, located in the Lumière Villa, houses the Museum of Cinema, which allows visitors to take an
aesthetic, scientific and historic journey through Louis Lumière’s invention of cinematography in 1895.
Just beside it, the Hangar is the first set in the history of cinematography, used in Lumière’s first film,
“Sortie de l’Usine Lumière de Lyon.” It is the first site for cinematic memory. Located in the International
City, the Museum of Contemporary Art is entirely dedicated to temporary exhibits. Finally, the
Gallo-Roman museums in Lyon and Saint-Romain-en-Gal highlight the remains of Gaul in the region,
such as ceramics, jewels and statues alongside archeological sites like spas and roman theatres.
www.mba-lyon.fr / www.gadagne.musees.lyon.fr
www.musees-gallo-romains.com
/
www.institut-lumiere.org
/
www.mac-lyon.com
/
The city of Grenoble, where Stendhal, author of “Le Rouge et Le Noir,” was born in 1783, allows visitors
to discover the work and the life of the great author. The Stendhal Museum includes the apartment of
the author’s grandfather; the apartment Stendhal grew up in and library collections.
For its part, the Grenoble Museum groups together more than 900 works for a journey through Western
painting from the 13th to 21st century. There, one can find formidable works like the most important
Matisse painting kept in France, “Intérieur aux Aubergines,” as well as classic Flemish, Dutch, Italian and
Spanish masterpieces and Egyptian antiquities.
www.bm-grenoble.fr www.grenoble-tourisme.com / www.museedegrenoble.fr
In the industrial city of Saint-Etienne, the Saint-Etienne Museum of Art and Industry draws a line
between the past, the present and the future of the Etienne region. There, one can find three technical
collections of international reputation: weapons, cycles and ribbons.
The Saint-Etienne Modern Art Museum, meanwhile, contains more than 19,000 works, mostly from the
21st century, as well as a collection of ancient art. Works from Monet, Picasso, Magnelli, Léger and more
are housed there.
www.musee-art-industrie.saint-etienne.fr / www.mam-st-etienne.fr
44
At the heart of Chambéry, the city’s Fine Arts Museum has an important collection of Italian paintings
from the 14th to 17th centuries. Renowned for its exceptional altarpiece of the Trinité of Bartolo di Fredi,
the museum also has beautiful examples of Florentine, Venetian, Neapolitan and Bolognese art.
www.musees.chambery.fr
In the historic centre of old Valence, the ancient Episcopal Palace houses the Valence Museum. The
collections trace the history of man and art, from the prehistoric ages of the region to contemporary art.
Of special note is the important collection of Hubert Robert paintings from the 17th century.
The International Museum of Shoes in Romans-sur-Isère, installed in the ancient Convent of the
Visitation, has more than 20,000 pieces from the Age of Antiquity until today. It has everything from the
mummified feet of ancient Egyptians to Musketeer boots and the shoes of Chinese women.
www.museedevalence.fr / www.ville-romans.fr
Religious sites
Among the great cultural sites of the department Ain, in the north of Lyon, is the Royal Brou Monastery
in Bourg-en-Bresse. The gothic masterpiece is a sign of love Marguerite d’Autriche built to bury her
husband, Philibert le Beau, Duke of Savoie. They still rest there now, along with his mother. The
mausoleum houses three magnificent tombs as well as superb vaulted rooms and cloisters of various
styles.
www.brou.monuments-nationaux.fr
Close to the Chartreuse regional park, the Grande Chartreuse Museum allows curious visitors a chance
to better understand the mystery of the Cartusian order with the help of documents, films and objects
from everyday life.
www.musee-grande-chartreuse.fr
On the shores of Bourget Lake, Hautecombe Abbey had great spiritual influence from the 12th to 15th
centuries. It is a beautiful example of troubadour gothic architecture. In the 17th and 18th centuries,
Savoie’s valleys become dedicated to the baroque. A number of works are there to be discovered today,
in large part thanks to the Baroque Paths, connecting 80 sites either by guided tour or free access.
www.fondation-facim.fr
Vestiges and Prehistory
Ardèche is marked by the remains of history. Between the Ardèche Gorges and the Valley of the Cèze,
the Grand Site of Aven d’Orgnac is ideal for a day of discovery. The Cité de la Prehistoric (prehistoric
museum) mixes technology and ruins, going from the Paleolithic age to the first Iron Age for an
interactive visit that gets to the core of prehistoric daily life. The site also houses a cave that plunges
adventurers 121 metres underground to discover geological gems that form a fanciful and poetic world.
www.orgnac.com
45
Remarkable sites
The castle overlooking the village of Grignan is considered one of the most beautiful Renaissance
castles, in the 17th century, the Marquise de Sévigné remained there with her daughter. It contains
furniture, works of art and reception rooms that present the daily life of a different periode, and each
night in the summer the castle organises theatral shows during the Night Festival.
In Hauterives, in 1879, the postman Cheval discovered a strange looking stone during one of his rounds.
The next day, after having found a second, he decided to go for a crazy project: the construction of a
‘Palais Idéal’ made from these stones. In the heart of a lush garden, he imagined an uninhabitable
palace, populated instead by a menagerie of animals. Octopi, deer, crocodiles, elephants, pelicans, birds
and bears, but also giants, fairies, mythical people, waterfalls and architecture from all continents. It is a
truly unclassifiable work of architecture. The ‘Palais Idéal’ has inspired artists for more than a century.
Built without following any architectural rules, the ‘Palais Idéal’ has won the admiration of surrealists. It
has been recognised as a work of outsider art, and in 1969 was classified as a Historical Monument by
André Malraux, then Minister of Culture, under the title of naïve art.
www.chateaux.ladrome.fr / www.facteurcheval.com
One of the most important sites constructed by Corbusier in Europe is found in Firminy. The Heritage of
Corbusier is comprised of a youth and cultural centre, a dwelling, a municipal stadium, Saint-Pierre
church and a pool.
Further north, the Bâtie d’Urfé castle gathers all the arts of the Renaissance, from the sphinx at the
entryway and Italian paintings to the famous rock cave in the castle’s chapel. It is also the place where
the summer shows are held during the nights of “L’Estival de la Bâtie”.
www.ville-firminy.fr / www.loire.fr
In Haute-Savoie, Annecy Castle is the ancient residence of the counts of Geneva and the dukes of
Genevois-Nemours, and was classified as a historical monument in 1959. It is a site worth visiting for its
architecture, but also for its museum, which presents a culturally-relevant collection of lakeside
archaeology, medieval sculpture, landscape paintings, contemporary art and animated films.
www.musees.agglo-annecy.fr
46
III. FAVOURITES
New for 2015
The Confluence Museum. At the intersection of the Rhône and the Saône, the Confluence
Museum is at the heart of a monumental structure that looks like a cross between crystal and cloud.
Dating back to the 17th century, the museum’s collections are made of endless curiosities for scholars
and amateurs alike. More than 2 million objects make up the richness of the permanent and temporary
exhibits, including meteorites, ammonites, Cochin birds, Homo Sapien bones and Samurai armour.
www.museedesconfluences.fr
Cave of Chauvet-Pont d’Arc. Discovered in 1994, the ornate cave in Vallon-Pont-d’Arc is
fascinating due to the quality of its preservation and the richness of drawings found there. It is seen as
the longest-existing major work of art that is currently known, which gave rise to the Pont d’Arc Cave
project. In order to make as many discoveries in the cave as possible, a large restoration effort began in
the Ardèche Gorges. A cultural, scientific and technological project, the first phase of the Pont d’Arc
Cave reconstruction is restoring the paintings, engravings and geological and architectural elements of
the cave. The characteristics of a subterranean habitat (coolness, dampness and darkness) will also be
meticulously reproduced. It will open on 25 April 2015.
www.lacavernedupontdarc.org
Key events
Biennale International du Design. In collaboration with the Design City, the festival, which takes
place in Saint Etienne from mid-March to mid-April, invites French and foreign artists to show off their
personal visions of design. During the festivities, many events and exhibits are held in Saint-Etienne and
the surrounding area (the odd years).
www.biennale-design.com
Thriller Fiction Festival. Lyon hosts France’s unmissable event for thriller fiction in March. Now
part of the French and European cultural landscape, it is known by both book publishing professionals
and the general public, who always attend different events held by the festival.
www.quaisdupolar.com
Nuits Sonores - Nights of Sound. Now known throughout Europe for the quality of its event,
Nights of Sound hosts 100,000 spectators and 250 artists each year for a series of concerts in close to 50
sites across the city, like galleries, cinemas and museums. It is the largest gathering for electronic,
independent, numerical and visual culture, welcoming artists from the entire world and running until
mid-May.
www.nuits-sonores.com
47
Les Nuits de Fourvière. Dedicated to theatre arts, the Nights of Fourvière puts on close to 60
shows for more than 150,000 spectators every year. Beginning in June and lasting two months, theatre,
music, dance, circus and opera take over the Roman theatres of Fourvière as well as other cultural sites
in the city for an eclectic and modern programme.
www.nuitsdefourviere.fr
Jazz in Vienne. At the end of June, jazz takes over the city during the Jazz in Vienna festival, two
weeks of free and open concerts that aim to educate young people. The biggest enthusiasts take their
places for concerts held in the prestigious old theatre of Vienna, an annual event for the renowned
names in jazz.
www.jazzavienne.com
Musilac. Each summer, Aix-les-Bains hosts the largest pop-rock event in the region. Over four
days in July, big names in rock and rising stars in the French and international music scene perform on
two lakeside stages, for a total of 30 concerts in a lively atmosphere amidst the lakes and mountains.
www.musilac.com
Berlioz Festival. Each summer at the end of August, the Saint-Andre coast celebrates Hector
Berlioz, a romantic music genius who was born there. The programme includes concerts in the court of
Louis XI’s castle, in the street, at the Medieval Hall and at the Hector-Berlioz Museum. The
internationally-known festival attracts more than 25,000 visitors each year.
www.festivalberlioz.com
Ambronay Festival. The village of Ambronay hosts one of the largest ancient music festivals in
Europe every September. During the event, music is played at some of the village’s most important sites,
namely the Notre-Dame Abbey of Ambronay due to its exceptional acoustics.
www.ambronay.org/Festivals
Lyon Biennials. Each even year from September to January, the city of Lyon puts on the Biennial
of Dance, during which shows, meetings and even a competition for children make the event appealing
to everyone. Odd years are dedicated to the Biennial of Contemporary Art.
www.labiennaledelyon.com
Lumière Festival in Lyon. A film festival organised by the Lumière Institute and Greater Lyon is
held every year in October. The programme is centred around classic cinema and includes a number of
old film retrospectives, which are often restored. The Lumière Prize, which highlights an exceptional
contribution to the history of film, is given to honour the career of someone in the film community. The
last two filmmakers to win the prize were Tarantino in 2013 and Almodovar in 2014.
www.festival-lumiere.org
La Fête des Lumières - Festival of Lights in Lyon. Traditionally named the December 8 Festival or
Illuminations, the Festival of Lights is an event held each year during the four days following December 8.
It enhances the exceptional heritage of Lyon, its monuments, its parks and its rivers using light and video
to produce creations of sound and living arts.
www.fetedeslumieres.lyon.fr
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IV. TO GO FURTHER
On the culture of Rhône-Alpes: www.inrhonealpes.com (press section)
Rhône-Alpes TV channels: www.culture.rhonealpes.tv / www.discover.rhonealpes.tv
Culture in Rhône-Alpes Twitter account: www.twitter.com/Culture_RA
Selection of photos:
www.phototheque.rhonealpes-tourisme.com
Contacts
Sylvaine Vallini
+33 (0)4 26 73 31 69
sylvaine.vallini@rhonealpes-tourisme.com
Sophie Vaissellet
+33 (0)4 26 73 31 65
sophie.vaissellet@rhonealpes-tourisme.com
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Rhône-Alpes, a destination for one and all
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The touristic diversity of Rhône-Alpes allows the region to meet everyone’s expectations. Families,
summer camps, young people, seniors or businesses can easily find a stay that fits their needs like a
mountain biking trip in Valloire, a relaxing weekend in nature, a summer camp for exploring the
mountains, a team building day in a castle or a culinary tour of Lyon.
Such an offer is not complete without appropriate accommodation. Boasting one of the densest
concentrations of places to stay in France, Rhône-Alpes has many hotels, campsites, youth hostels,
touristic residences, vacation villages and other options, adding up to 68,400 beds in all. In order to
accommodate diverse types of visitors with very different expectations, many lodgings have adapted to
travellers’ needs and now offer a wide range of activities, packages and stays.
As a result, the region attracts different tourist segments with the option of exploring the wider region or
staying in to relax and enjoy planned activities. That’s a major advantage for visitors who aren’t familiar
with the region or the language; instead of relying on guidebooks and contacting their providers,
everything is pre-organised.
Most establishments in tune with the times are accessible to people with reduced mobility and are
committed to a sustainable development approach. That commitment is demonstrated through the
labelling of “Green Key” lodgings, the promotion of natural activities, buying local products and
involvement in social and solidarity tourism. Florimontains, which teaches youths ages 9 to 17 about the
environment and their duties as citizens every year, is one such place, as is Les Balcons du Lac d’Annecy,
a holiday village, which offers families a place to discover the region’s land and ecological riches.
Youth special: Stay at the UCPA!
UCPA’s unique profile: Organising sports adventures for everyone, and a place for meetings,
friendships and discoveries. In a word: sports, the source of social ties.
A social enterprise, the UCPA is known for its expertise in more than 80 athletic activities, practised in
the best places. Its unique atmosphere, where sports mix with sociability and sharing, guarantees that
each child, teenager and adult will live out some unforgettable sporting experiences. Hosting guests aged
16 to 25 is a priority for the UCPA, which opened to help young people become independent through
involvement in sports, using professional advice, education, equipment and practice locations suited for
all skill levels. Half of the young people who stay there benefit from financial aid.
With 16 UCPA centres in Rhône-Alpes, the organisation is well-suited to helping young people discover
the mountains’ attractions as well as offering varied activities in winter and summer alike: canyoning,
mountain biking, hiking, skiing, rock climbing and more. The all-inclusive UCPA always has high-quality
coaching, performance equipment and full-board accommodation, ensuring unbeatable value.
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Focus on:
This summer, the UCPA is launching programmes in Argentière and les Arcs for youths aged 16 to 25 who
want to get away without breaking the bank. Eager for good value, adventure and fun holidays, 16- to
25-year-olds can take customised multi-sport trips including activities like rafting, rock climbing, hiking,
mountain biking, slack lining and ropes courses. Summer can’t come soon enough!
1. For 16- to 25-year-olds:
With Happy, there will always be sports! Want a getaway, thrills and wide open spaces? The three
multi-sport programmes offered by Happy Argentière and Happy Les Arcs allow youths aged 16 to 25 the
chance to explore all aspects of the mountains.

Happy Argentière
On the programme: Rafting, rock climbing, hiking, mountain biking, slack lining, orienteering and, lastly,
the beauty of discovering a major global site, l’Aiguille du Midi.
7 days/6 nights, from July 5 to August 23, starting at €460

Happy Les Arcs
On the programme: Mountain biking in the fabulous Arcs area, hiking, ropes courses and rafting in
internationally-known Isère.
7 days/6 nights, from June 28 to August 23, starting at €460
*Included with UCPA: full-board lodgings, coaching and equipment
2. Happy Ski for students**
Happy Ski : An all-inclusive week of skiing or snowboarding starts at €475 without transportation or
€540 with transportation, offering a choice among the resorts at Chamonix, Argentière, Flaine
Altaïr, Flaine les Lindars, Contamines, Plagne 1800, Tignes and Val Thorens. This programme includes
full-board lodging, part-time group coaching with an instructor, lift passes and equipment.
**Conditions: Participants must be older than 18 and present a student card or certificate of scholarship
with valid dates the day of arrival at the centre. The “Happy Ski” programme is available only at
http://www.ucpa-vacances.com
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I. KEY STATISTICS
The lodgings in the region are grouped into three distinct types, with a total of 229,500 beds and 21.5
million overnight stays every year:
Tourist residences and the like
518 tourist residences and residential hotels (the most of any region in France)
179, 000 beds (27% of those nationwide)
16.6 million overnight stays in 2013 (75%), 29% foreign stays
68% of annual visits are during winter (summer: 29%)
Holiday villages and family homes
195 holiday villages (second only to PACA)
44,440 beds (16% of the national total)
4.1 million overnight stays in 2013 (3%), 15% from foreign visitors
Breakdown of establishments by administration:
Associations: 73%
Commercial businesses: 23%
Local authorities: 3%
Business committees: 1%
The largest social and solidarity tourism operators had 1.6 million overnight stays in 2013, totalling 13
million euros in revenue.
Youth hostels, international centres and sports centres
0.8 million overnight stays
19% of foreign visitors
Holiday centres house mainly visitors for school trips and camps:
447 establishments (80% in the 3 mountain departments)
1.6 million overnight stays during the winter season
School trips: 46.3%
Camps: 28.1%
Others: 25.6%
841,000 overnight stays during the summer season
Camps: 70.2%
Others: 29.8%
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II. MUST-SEE SIGHTS
AEC Forgeassoud. Just 2km from the traditional mountain village of Saint-Jean de Sixt,
Forgeassoud holiday village welcomes families in winter and summer. Located at an altitude of 1000m, it
offers Savoie-style lodgings as well as local products and dishes for authentic and convivial stays beside
the Aravis Mountains. In the summer, the verdant landscape, fresh air and its sauna and pool make
Forgeassoud a perfect place for a relaxing holiday in nature, but the village is also the starting point for
many winter activities like alpine and Nordic skiing, sledding and snowshoeing. Children aren’t forgotten
either, since the resort also has a snow garden, a moving walkway and a bumpered sledding hill, as well
as children’s clubs for kids ages 3 to 17.
www.aec-vacances.com/fr/individuels/destinations/saint-jean-de-sixt/presentation.html
UCPA Val Thorens. The UCPA centre in Val Thorens—the highest resort in Europe, which is
housed in a recently-renovated building that still has its original architecture—offers sporty stays to fit
each visitor’s wishes. From the “Leisure Skiing” package, which includes spa treatments and multiple
winter activities, to the “3 Valleys Skiing Vertical Drop” package, which features high-altitude skiing
under the guidance of a professional, ski lovers can enjoy the altitude and quality of facilities in Val
Thorens in an ideal setting. Camps are also welcome to come for ski or snowboard trips.
www.ucpa-vacances.com/centre/val-thorens
Lou Capitelle. Lou Capitelle holiday village is ideally located on the border of Ardèche in front of
the Vogüé castle, and is classified as one of the “Most Beautiful Villages in France.” It is perfect for family
vacations, especially given its children’s clubs for kids ages 3 to 17. After a warm welcome, holidayers are
truly pampered with riverside accommodations, a lovely restaurant, activities every night and a heated
pool. There are many activities offered each day, like excursions, caving, canyoning or, for the truly
adventurous, descending into the Ardèche gorges by canoe. It is a programme that embraces nature and
its resources.
www.loucapitelle.com
Valloire la Pulka. At the foot of Galibier, the Ternélia Valloire La Pulka vacation village is
well-suited to budding or experienced cyclists, letting them hit the bike park or climb the Col du Galibier,
where the summit offers a breathtaking view of the surroundings. Rooms and the elevator are equipped
for bikes. For winter visits, skis, snowshoes, sled dogs and Speed Riding are available close to the resort.
Within the establishment there’s also a sauna, steam bath, heated indoor pool and a relaxation massage
room for tranquil vacations in a pleasant atmosphere.
www.ternelia-chemins.com
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Huttopia Dieulefit. For families or groups of friends, the idyllic setting of Huttopia Dieulefit is
sure to satisfy. Between fields of lavender and verdant mountains, the site accommodates campers,
trailers and tents for visitors looking to disconnect from the world. Cabins and huts are also available for
nature stays! There’s also the chance to partake in outdoor activities like swimming in the pond, biking,
pony rides and tree climbing. Curious visitors may also enjoy going to the lavender distillery, tasting local
wines or visiting the surrounding villages.
www.france.huttopia.com/fr/destination/campement/huttopia-dieulefit/site
SLO living hostel. In the heart of Lyon, the new meeting point is SLO Living Hostel. Encompassing
a youth hostel, wine bar and tapas bar, the new design hotel is located in the up and coming area of
Guillotière, with its trendy new bars and restaurants. Its proximity to points of interest in the city and as
a natural hub of local life make it a great way to discover Lyon, its culture and its residents. The hostel is
also open to families, with double or reduced capacity rooms for parents and children.
www.slo-hostel.com
Goutelas Castle. The cultural centre of Goutelas Castle holds up to 65 people and contains a
traditional restaurant that serves delicious dishes made from local products. It is also an authentic venue
for many cultural events, like concerts, recitals and plays. The Renaissance-era castle is also an ideal
place for seminars because of its numerous meeting rooms. It is a unique place that gives its visitors a
timeless stay mixing serenity, history and culture.
www.chateaudegoutelas.fr
Les Balcons du Lac d’Annecy. Beside Lake Annecy, Les Balcons du Lac d’Annecy overlooks a
gorgeous view of mountains and invites visitors to pause for a moment and stay. On the mountain side,
sports are in the spotlight—hiking, skiing, snowshoeing, canoeing, mountain biking, canyoning and
rafting. On the city side, the pretty canals of Annecy and its elegant 17th century homes lend themselves
well to strolls and visits. The holiday village offers all-inclusive packages, a relaxing setting and a
children’s club for a restful and soothing vacation. Les Balcons du Lac d’Annecy restaurant also serves
Savoie specialties.
www.village-vacances.com/les-balcons-du-lac.php
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III. FAVOURITES
Family favourites !
Located in a tranquil and lush green setting at the end of Carroz d’Arâches, only 600 metres from the
ski lifts and 800 metres from the town centre, La Croix de Savoie hotel and restaurant is a
village landmark.
Four years of construction delivered a model tourist destination made from durable materials that
respect the environment, the preservation of the region’s natural heritage and the safekeeping of our
planet. It is the first bioclimatic hotel in the Rhône-Alpes region and the third in France.
Its spacious and luminous family rooms all feature a flat screen TV with satellite channels, a private
bathroom and a balcony or terrace. Certain rooms also have exceptional panoramic views of the Arve
valley, Sallances, Cluses, Bonneville and the Aravis Mountains.
In addition, La Croix de Savoie’s gourmet restaurant was given one fork in the 2015 MICHELIN Guide for
the quality of its services. It’s a great honor for the Tiret family, who produce delicious new dishes that
are sophisticated but also simple and of a high-quality every day.
La Croix de Savoie hotel and restaurant***
Menus start at 27 €.
Web site: http://www.lacroixdesavoie.fr/en/welcome
The Mountain Echo. The Mountain Echo holiday centre hosts camps and groups of all ages all
year long for vacations spent in an ancient Savoie family farm. Located in Upper Savoie, 10 minutes from
Morzine/Avoriaz, it is also a departure point for beautiful forest hikes, like the “Tour of Crêtes,” which
leads to the peaceful Alpine Chavannes. It’s the chance to take your time and enjoy nature while
discovering the little joys of the mountains through activities like astronomy lessons, environmental
education, crafts or exploring beekeeping.
www.echodesmontagnes.com
Collonges Castle. This is an exceptional holiday village with a character that attracts many
visitors. Located within a completely renovated 17th century castle in the Drôme, it features a
three-hectare park where one will find a large pool, sports fields and a playground for children. It also
adapted to the needs of disabled customers, a fact that is recognised by the Tourism & Handicap label.
The pretty village of Saint-Donat-Sur-l’Herbasse, in which the castle is located, was built at the foot of
the church of the same name and is close to a number of surrounding sites like the Postman Cheval's
Ideal Palace in Hauterives, or Charrière Church in Châteauneuf-de-Galaure. Each summer, it hosts the
internationally renowned Bach music festival. Between culture and leisure, the castle welcomes seniors,
families and sports clubs to come and relax.
www.ihtourisme.be
Evian-les-Bains VVF Villages. On the shores of Lake Geneva and close to a spa center, the
Evian-les-Bains holiday village offers its visitors a peaceful stay centered around the theme of water,
from panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains to soothing walks and spa treatments.
Ideal for discovering Switzerland and the Chablais Mountains, the village also offers numerous activities
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for children of all ages as well as health and fitness facilities. Whitewater sports lovers are even able to
hit the alpine currents!
www.vvf-villages.fr/villages-vacances/vacances-evian-vvf-villages.html
Annibal Fountain. The hotel at Annibal Fountain in the Drôme is perfectly integrated into the
countryside because of its wooden exterior. Amidst olive trees and beside Ouvèze, it welcomes young
and old visitors alike to discover the world of Provence. All-inclusive holidays like “Olive Country by
Electric Bike” or “Winds of Emotion in Buis les Baronnies” allow an active and eco-friendly way to see the
natural heritage of the region. The most adventurous visitors will happily note that a camp site, located
in an old orchard, is close to the site.
www.vacances-baronnies.com
Hautannes. In Saint-Germain-au-Mont-d’Or in the Rhône, Hautannes is a charming holiday
village in a 2.5-hectare park. This 19th century home warmly welcomes its visitors, and is also a great
place for seminars or events. Just 20 minutes from the heart of Lyon, it has a pool open in the summer,
tennis courts, a tree-filled park and an aquatic garden for a stay that combines relaxation with
discovering the cuisine and culture of Lyon.
www.domainedeshautannes-lyon.com
UCPA Argentière. In the heart of the Northern Alps, the major international centre of
Argentières is ideally located in the hamlet of Argentière, a few kilometers from Chamonix and a
five-minute walk from the Grand Montets. It’s an area with a cosmopolitan atmosphere that is still
conducive to sports and allows skiers to take on the greatest altitude changes in the world, and its
snowpark is one of the 15 best in France. Upon returning to the centre, guests can lounge in the sauna
following a meal with panoramic views of Mont-Blanc! Group tours are also welcome, with programs
suited for young people between 13 and 17 years old.
www.ucpa-vacances.com/centre/argentiere
ULVF Essertets. Nestled at an altitude of 1036 metres and right in the heart of the Mont-Blanc
area, Essertets holiday village offers authentic stays in a hamlet of seven chalets. Offerings include Savoie
cuisine for gourmet diners, evening activities for revellers and a children’s club for relaxing holidays. Ski
lovers will find 120km of trails in Val d’Arly and 185km of trails in Diamants.
www.vacances-ulvf.com/nos-villages-de-vacances/a-la-montagne/les-essertets-praz-sur-arly-hiver.html
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IV. TO GO FURTHER
Rhône-Alpes TV channel: www.discover.rhonealpes.tv
Tourism For All website: www.pro.rhonealpes-tourisme.com/paroles-de-pros
Selection of photos:
www.phototheque.rhonealpes-tourisme.com
Contacts
Muriel Antoniotti
+33 (0)4 26 73 31 96
muriel.antoniotti@rhonealpes-tourisme.com
Nathalie Vallier
+33 (0)4 26 73 31 49
nathalie.vallier@rhonealpes-tourisme.com
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