Between the legacy of a remarkable heritage and the finest of our gastronomy, we invite you to kill two birds with one stone by visiting two incredible towns that combine historic architecture with culinary delights. One leads to a historic town with its cobblestone streets and castle, and the other to a lifestyle centered on famous wines, sun-ripened fruits, and fine chocolate… This time, we’re heading south—jumping on the train to Tournon-sur-Rhône and Tain-l’Hermitage!
Tournon-sur-Rhône and Tain-l’Hermitage, at the heart of history
Tournon-sur-Rhône is undoubtedly one of the most remarkable towns of character in our region. Its imposing castle and magnificent terraces overlooking the town are accessible via a network of small cobblestone streets. As you stroll through the center, be sure to stop by the Grenier à Sel mansion and, for the more adventurous, the Chapelle viewpoint, which offers a breathtaking view of the Rhône and the surrounding vineyards.
Because, of course, one cannot speak of this region without mentioning the treasures of its vineyards, which are intimately linked to history, since we know that the wine grown here has been enjoyed since ancient times, making it one of the oldest wine-growing regions in France. Three major appellations are currently registered here: Hermitage, Crozes-Hermitage, and Saint-Joseph, with some vineyards recognized as among the best in the world.
Finally, you simply must try Valrhona chocolate, which remains to this day one of the most renowned in France and the world. The local company, founded in 1922 in Tain-l’Hermitage, even invites you to discover all the treasures of chocolate at its “Cité du Chocolat Valrhona,” a sort of Disneyland for all food lovers!
Two towns to enjoy without moderation
We’ve already seen it with chocolate and wine; here, just like in Lyon, people don’t think twice when it comes to enjoying local products. No pun intended, Tournon is a hub of our culinary heritage. Right in the heart of the Rhône Valley, bordering southern France, the Isère mountains, and the Ardèche Gorges, you couldn’t ask for a better setting. So imagine just how abundant its market must be! Well, go see it for yourself andpick up some peaches, apricots, and cherries, a bottle of Crozes-Hermitage, walnuts and olives, or even a nice Saint-Marcellin!
Unsurprisingly, cheese takes center stage on local plates: Caillé Doux, freshgoat’s milk tomme, and Picodon are just a few of the local specialties to savor. And if you add to that the ravioles de la Drôme, the orange-blossom brioche known as pogne, Ardèche chestnuts, or black truffles, you’ll have more than enough to return to Lyon with a full belly!
