River stops with vineyards
Charming Rhône-side Tournon with its southern feel has a port where river cruisers can moor. Opposite it, Tain-l’Hermitage boasts famous vineyards planted on steep terraces.
At Tournon, visit the museum in the château, then enjoy stunning views over the Rhône Valley. Cross the Rhône on the Seguin Footbridge, the oldest suspension bridge still used in France, to reach Tain-l’Hermitage. Here, wine lovers will find fine-wine cellars, sometimes with wine bars, like those of Chapoutier or Jaboulet. Also try walks or guided tours in the vineyards. Note too that the Tain chocolate company, Valrhona, opened its Cité du Chocolat Valrhona here.
Custom route
Custom route
Sablons / Sarras / Tournon-sur-Rhône / Glun
This ViaRhôna stage runs between steep vineyards and dense orchards. Heading south from Lyon, this is the first ViaRhôna stage to enter the rugged Ardèche, a beautiful département (or French county) on the mighty Rhône’s west flank. Here, the tamed river supports orchards, market gardens and vines producing top-class Saint-Joseph wines. Arriving at the town of Tournon-sur-Rhône, follow the provisional signage to continue along the route.
Tournon-sur-Rhône / Glun / Valence / La Voulte-sur-Rhône
This easy ViaRhôna stage offers a gentle introduction to the South of France. There’s much to enchant: pretty villages in typical southern style; a surprising branch of the Rhône encircling La Roche-de-Glun; and biodiversity. The big town of Valence presages Provence to the south, with its colourful markets, shaded gardens and historic quarters, including pedestrianized area. This stage goes along greenways, except through Valence.