Why is rhone alpes famous

Among its many treasures: 10 Unesco sites, such as the historic site of Lyon, 20 "cities of Art and History" «Villes et Pays d'Art et d'Histoire» and 22 "most beautiful villages in France" «Plus beaux villages de France». Savour and discover unique wines and food products. Have fun with family or experience winter thrills. Enjoy the unique and unspoiled landscapes. Go swimming, take a tour by bike, on foot or on roller blades.

Walk on one of the most famous volcanoes. Be surprised by health and wellness benefits provided by thermal spa waters. As many as 24 thermal resorts, almost a quarter of the total number in France, are set in the region to enjoy relaxing moments, with worldwide well-known such as Vichy External link or Evian External link.

Be amazed by the vibrant mix of art, history, shopping and nightlife. In short, this region proves exceptionally rich all round. Historic sights abound. Uplifting cathedrals, churches and chapels call you in all across the region.

The region now has a handful of airports taking international flights. All told, this region is one to explore. Copyright: Sarah Francis. The Cantal, Puy de Dome, Allier and Haute Loire once a remote and inaccessible departments, have retained much of the wild and unspoilt character making it the ideal choice for nature lovers.

The volcanic landscape the largest in Europe with verdant mountains and dramatic gorges, lakes and wide plateaux, bear testament to its ancient past. Yet this region in the heart of the Massif Central, is only 3 hours from Paris. Of its ten Spa towns, the most famous is Vichy on the Banks of the Allier with its parks, restaurants, opera house, horse racing and vast lake.

It has retained the charm, elegance and atmosphere of the twenties when it was first fashionable, with architecture from art nouveau to neo gothic and much wrought ironwork. Better known for its part in World War II, and despite the devastation caused, there is a total absence of any reference to this in terms of monuments or museums. The capital of the Haute Loire, a starting point for pilgrims to Compostela, Le Puy with its 13th Century Cathedral is a remarkable sanctuary town where hand-made lace is still made.

In terms of leisure activities, the choice is endless. There are eight ski resorts and over 1, kms of cross country skiing. Click here to book your flights to Lyon. With a car, some good tunes, and the best company, you are set for one of the best adventures in your life.

This site takes all major rental companies, such as Hertz, Avis, etc. Check out our best tips for renting a car in France. Check out this Lyon itinerary with the best things to do in Lyon for two days. Looking for winter destinations in France? With large ski areas connected to village resorts, there is something for everyone. The French Alps is home to the three largest ski areas in the world, well known for the quantity and quality of the snow and skiing itself.

Chamonix and Mont-Blanc are also great destinations for a summer holiday in the French Alps. Due to its proximity to the Swiss border, Chamonix and Mont-Blanc are also popular day trips from Geneva the Swiss city is located only a 1-hour drive. The city is also the starting point of many wonderful hikes, to the gorges on the River Fier or up to the Tournette peak for a breathtaking view of the lake.

Today, it is possible to reach the summit in just 15 minutes thanks to an electric train that winds up to the top. In addition to a rich historical and archeological site, the canyon is a tourist attraction, drawing over a million visitors per year for hiking, sightseeing, and kayaking.

Architecture passionates will love the Romanesque churches of Auvergne , the oldest Christian buildings built to last after AD.