4-day cycling tour on ViaRhôna from Vienne to Valence
This cycling tour starts in the Gallo-Roman city of Vienne and keeps on along the Rhona cycle route, the ViaRhôna, through the world-famous wine region of Côtes-du-Rhôna till Valence. A great family cycling holiday or gourmet cycling holiday!
- Rhone Alpes
- 4 day(s)
- Easy
- ~ 31 km/day
- Itinerant
Discover the secrets of Gallo-Roman Vienna.
The ViaRhôna is a 815 km long cycling path connecting Geneva Lake, from the North, to the Mediterranean Sea, to the South. In between, you will cycle alongside the Rhône River from the amazing Alpine mountains to the marvelous Mediterranean Sea beaches. A dream for everyone!
From Vienne, the old roman capital, this trip offers a great variety of landscapes. You will cross a lot of typical French villages and have a magnificent view of the steeply terraced vineyards, the first major orchards along the Rhône Valley. You will follow the greenways for most of the path, riding your bike at an ideal speed, which will give you a chance to enjoy history, nature and gastronomy all at the same time!
Program
Dive into the Gallo-Roman world of Vienne. The richness and diversity of its history have elevated the ancient city to the rank of City of Art and History. The majority of the built heritage is concentrated in the heart of the city, ideal for a discovery on foot from site to site. Don't miss the ancient theater and the temple of Augustus and Livia, famous vestiges of the Gallo-Roman era.
- 34 km
- + 33 m
You cycle quietly along the Rhône River on the bike path before crossing the river to get to the “Ile au Beurre”. Have a break on this peaceful island known for the diversity of its fauna!
Take the time to have a look around since you are in the heart of the major vineyards of the Rhône Valley including the famous Condrieu, Saint-Joseph, Côte-Rôtie. From this point on, you will get your first glimpse of the typical Provence villages and houses.
- 37 km
- + 20 m
Just before crossing the river once again, have a break in the Village of Saint-Vallier. Enter the Saint-Vallery Church, and the Poitiers family’s burial chapel (parents of Diane de Poitiers) As you arrive in Tournon-sur-Rhône you cross the Rhône River on the oldest French hanging bridge that is still in use today. This “Passerelle Seguin” bridge allows you to reach the village of Tain-l’Hermitage, home of the famous wine and ValRhôna chocolate. Be sure to taste both of these delicious regional specialities.
- 22 km
- + 32 m
The cycle path now offers a gentle introduction to the South of France, with its pretty villages in typical southern style. Vineyards and fruits orchards are now the main part of the landscape.
Your trip ends in Valence, a classified Town of Art and History. With its colorful markets, shaded gardens and historic quarters, this living city makes you feel like being in Provence already.
Learn about the fascinating process of making chocolate ! You visit the historical site of the well-knowed Valrhona chocolaterie, where an exhibition shows to the public and professionals the backstage of the brand.
Accommodation
Information
Beginning of the trip
As the first day is a non-biking day, you’ll arrive at your leisure, depending on your route. Please note that rooms are usually available by mid-afternoon, depending on your accommodation. Please let us know if you are arriving late.
To get to the departure point
By plane: The nearest airport is Lyon Saint-Exupery. At the airport, there is a shuttle tramway Rhone Express taking you to the city center at Lyon Part-Dieu train station in 30 mn.
By train: many regional trains go to Vienne from Lyon, from either Lyon Part-Dieu or Lyon Perrache train stations (duration of the trip about 20min). High-speed trains don’t stop in Vienne. To plan your trip, thetrainline.
Car park
If you come by car to Vienne, you can park in the secure car park of SNCF station (55€/4 days).
To get back to the starting point
Trains take you back to your starting point if you wish. Regular regional trains are riding between Valence and Vienne. Bikes are accepted for free. The duration of the trip is about 50mn. Full rate € 14.50/pers.
You will find the timetable of the day in your travel documents.
If you have taken the baggage transfer option, you can pick up your luggage from 4pm at the drop off point.
storage facility for the duration of your trip (upon availability).
- Rhone Alpes
- 4 day(s)
- Easy
- ~ 31 km/day
- Itinerant
Tried and tested stays!
- Experience15 years' experience in cycling to advise and satisfy you
- Tested & ApprovedThe whole team goes out into the field to design the itineraries and select the best partners (accommodation, bikes, etc.).
- Quality of serviceA dedicated customer service team available and ready to listen, from the moment you book until you return from your holiday.
- Secure paymentIndividual or fractional payment by secure means via our website
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