Between the Vercors and Provence
Valence, a gateway to the South of France set beside the Rhône, has retained the typical charms associated with southern cities, with colourful, welcoming streets, markets, quarters and gardens.
Valence, a Ville d’Art et d’Histoire in recognition of its rich cultural heritage, is great to wander round, with parks and canals as well as its historic centre. Valence’s proud historical legacy has been enhanced by its Plan Lumière, illuminating the place in style. Among its cultural treasures, note the Valence Museum of Fine Arts and Archaeology.Benefiting from a southern climate, Valence is a reputed gastronomic stop, its most celebrated address Maison Pic, run by star chef Anne-Sophie Pic.
Custom route
Custom 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.
Valence / La Voulte-sur-Rhône / Le Pouzin
After a halt at Valence’s southern river port of L'Epervière, ViaRhôna leads you back onto the western, Ardèche bank of the Rhône. The Ardèche is known for its exceptional caves, archaeological sites, characterful villages, châteaux and nature reserves. From La Voulte-sur-Rhône, you can discover rugged central Ardèche by taking the Dolce Via route up the Eyrieux Valley. Continuing south along ViaRhôna, cross the Printegarde Nature Reserve to reach Le Pouzin after another short trip across the Rhône into the Drôme.