Lyon Enchantment: A Tapestry of Culture, Cuisine, and History

Lyon

The Rhone Valley is a picturesque region in southeastern France known for its stunning landscapes, historic sites, and world-renowned vineyards. The Rhone River flows through the valley, which is divided into the Northern Rhone and the Southern Rhone. The region spans several departments, including Rhone, Drome, Ardèche, and Vaucluse.

What is there to do in Lyon and the Rhone Valley? We have many suggestions:

Day 1
History & Foodie Tour of Lyon

We have a treat for you today….a private walking tour of Lyon with your very own English-speaking guide! Founded in 43 BC, Lyon has a long history of intrigue dating back to the time of Caesar. This charming city, built on the Rhone River, has many “must-see” sites, including the Notre Dame Basilica and the Cathedral of Saint-Jean. The Hotel Bullioud, an ornate Renaissance mansion located in “Old Lyon” is worth a visit. Explore the winding cobblestone streets with your guide as you explore the history and architecture of this area. Of course, Lyonnaise cuisine is world renowned as this city is known as the capital of French gastronomy! Let’s stop along the way to delight in the food shops.

Day 2
Private Cooking Classes

Are you an extreme foodie who loves to cook or perhaps would love to have a private chef teach and cook with them? We can arrange for a private cooking class for you! We suggest that you visit Lyon’s covered market with your chef to discover the freshest produce, meat, and fish. Do some shopping and then return to the chef’s atelier where you will cook alongside her and learn some secrets of French cuisine. The culmination of your day is eating what you cooked and enjoying a glass of wine with your chef!

Day 3
Rhone Valley Wine Country

Let’s introduce you to another day of adventures! Today you explore the northern Rhone Valley wine country and discover the homeland of the Syrah and Viognier grapes. Enter a glorious past, dating as far back as Roman times as you taste Hermitage, Saint Joseph, Cote Rotie, and Condrieu wines– some of the most prestigious appellations in the world. This morning you will stop in Vienne to enjoy a spectacular view of the 2000-year-old Roman theatre and the panoramic views of the Rhone Valley. Discover the steeply terraced vineyards of Hermitage before indulging in your first wine tasting of the day. You will capture the essence of the terroir when you sample some great wines in a private tasting room with the sommelier. You will then have some free time in town for lunch on your own before continuing to one of the oldest vineyards in existence in all of France, Cote Rotie. Enjoy a second tasting this afternoon at a small winery, where you will learn about the amazing Rhone wines.

Day 4
Chanteuneuf-du-Pape

Chateauneuf-du-Pape is another great place to visit in the Rhone Valley! It is another destination for wine and exploration! Spend your day visiting the world-renowned wineries, where your expert guide will give you a wine-tasting lesson and allow you to explore the vineyards and perhaps meet the winemakers. You will discover a museum dedicated to wine and learn how it is made. Along the way, you will enjoy the essence of this beautiful area as you to admire the stunning views of the Rhone River from the old castle of Chateauneuf.

Day 5
Avignon

Avignon is another gem of the Rhone Valley and a great place to explore. Visit the Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes), a vast fortified castle that was built between 1335 and 1364 and was home to a succession of nine popes. A tour of the palace takes you back to a time of intrigue. Climb the towers of the palace and admire the frescoes and tapestries inside. Not far from the palace is the Pont St. Benézet, which spans the Rhone River. Constructed by a local shepherd after a religious vision in the 12^th century, the bridge boasts only 4 of its original 22 arches after falling into ruins. Marvel at this walled city’s 39 towers and 7 gates as you spend the day exploring the cafes, boutiques, and historical sites in beautiful Avignon!

Day 6
Ardèche

The Ardèche offers a diverse range of activities and attractions! Whether you are a “foodie”, a lover of history, or a nature enthusiast, there is something for you. Experience vibrant local markets, where you can taste regional products, including cheese, wine, and fresh produce. The Ardèche Gorges is a stunning natural wonder, known for its limestone cliffs, deep canyons, and the famous Pont d’Arc, a natural stone bridge. Marvel at prehistoric cave art, and picturesque medieval villages such as Balazuc and Viviers. It is also a paradise for hikers, explorers, and adventurers. Of course, we have some small vineyards and wineries that we can introduce you to while you are here.