10x the very best in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

Giant mountain ranges, clear waters and volcanic landscapes; that's the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region in a nutshell. In winter, you can enjoy the popular ski resorts and in summer you can enjoy hiking, mountain biking or water sports on or around the lakes. This interspersed with historic cities, distinctive gastronomy and rich cultural heritage make Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes a wonderful holiday destination. We take you through 10 of the very best to do's in the region.

1.    Ascending Mont Blanc

Mont Blanc is the highest mountain in Western Europe, with an immense peak of no less than 4,810 metres. It is therefore one of the most famous mountains in the Alps and attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world every year. Both mountain hikers and advanced alpinists take up the challenge of climbing the mountain. From great heights, you can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding area. In addition, the cosy mountain villages around Mont Blanc are a good base for winter sports. From the village of Chamonix, for instance, you can be in the ski resort in no time. Besides mountain climbing and skiing, you can also go glacier climbing or paragliding. Or take a ride on the famous Tramway du Mont Blanc, which takes you right through the mountains.

2.    Enjoying Lac d'Annecy

Lac d'Annecy is one of the most beautiful lakes in Europe, with a stunning backdrop of mountains and greenery all around. Located in the heart of the French Alps, the lake is surrounded by many picturesque villages and towns. The most famous is the nearby town of Annecy, with an atmospheric centre and convivial terraces along the canals. It is a romantic destination and is also called the Venice of the Alps. Stroll through the narrow streets or stroll along the water at sunset. Action lovers can explore the lake. These include swimming, kayaking and sailing. This photogenic destination in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes is not to be missed. 

3.    Characteristic Lyon

Lyon is France's third-largest city and is also known as the country's culinary capital. The city breathes history and has become a mix of history and modern atmospheres. For instance, the Vieux Lyon - the old city centre - is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its typical Renaissance style. Among the Renaissance buildings, you will find hidden traboules, which are passageways that lead you from one street to another. Visit the Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière, with impressive paintings inside and fantastic views over the city outside. 
Lyon is known for its ‘bouchons’, which are small restaurants characterised by their cosy but cosy décor. Think checkered tablecloths and wooden tables as interiors. Here you can sample all the region's delicacies, such as quenelles (fish balls) and saucisson (dried sausage).

4.    The natural beauty of the Gorges de l'Ardèche

The Gorges de l'Ardèche is an impressive gorge in southern Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes and is also known as the Grand Canyon of France. The river Ardèche winds through the impressive landscape for a distance of 30 km. Along the riverbed you will find steep cliffs and limestone gorges. The most famous point of the Gorges de l'Ardèche is the natural arch Pont d'Arc. The arch was formed by crumbling rocks and a popular kayaking route runs under the arch. You can also do some great hiking in the area. The Gorges de l'Ardèche is a must for nature lovers.

5.    Visit theme park Vulcania

Learn about Auvergne's volcanic history at Vulcania theme park. The park is located in the Parc Naturel Régional des Volcans d'Auvergne, in the middle of the volcanic mountains. You will step into a world of adventure as you learn more about volcanoes and the geology of the region. This includes watching spectacular films, travelling to the centre of the earth or experiencing a simulation of a real volcanic eruption! A visit to Vulcania is an interactive and educational experience for the whole family. 

6.    Noble influences in Chambéry

On to the city of Chambéry, the former capital of the Duchy of Savoy. Chambéry is characterised by rich cultural heritage, old town elements and breathtaking scenery. The old town, Vieux Chambéry, has neat facades and old traboules connecting the streets. The eye-catcher here is Château des Ducs de Savoie, with Gothic and Renaissance influences. The medieval castle used to be the residence of the dukes of Savoy and is well preserved. An important element of the castle is the Grand Carillon. With no less than 70 bells, this bell tower is the largest in Europe. You can hear the bells loud and clear - during the concerts on the first and third Saturday of the month. 

7.    Prehistoric finds at Grotte Chauvet  

Prehistoric finds can be found throughout Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, but the discovery of Grotte Chauvet is very special. This cave houses one of the oldest and best-preserved prehistoric finds and petroglyphs in the world. To avoid exposing these discoveries to outside influences, a replica cave has been opened, a 1-to-1 construction of the original, the Grotte Chauvet 2. See petroglyphs of mammoths, lions, horses and rhinos. The Grotte Chauvet is a journey through time where you can learn more about the history and archaeology of this area.

8.    The Puy de Dôme volcano

In the heart of the Massif Central lies the impressive volcano Puy de Dôme, with a height of no less than 1,465 metres. This dormant volcano is the best known and largest of the Chaîne des Puys area, which hosts a total of 80 dormant volcanoes. Not surprisingly, this area has been recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. By train, the Panoramique des Dômes, you can easily reach the top of the volcano. But you can also hike to the top. Along the way, you'll walk past the ruins of a Roman temple. The top of the volcano is spherical, like a dome. Take a balloon ride over the volcano, a unique experience!

9.    A natural work of art: Palais Idéal du Facteur Cheval

You'll feast your eyes when you look at the artworks and style of the Palais Idéal du Facteur Cheval. Located in Hauterives, this palace was built between 1879 and 1912. The creator of this magnificent work of art? French postman Ferdinand Chevel, who looked for materials for the house during his rounds as a delivery man. He worked on his palace whenever he had free time, so the entire construction of the palace took over 33 years. The structure consists of shells, stones and other natural materials. Because of the postman's extraordinary creativity and the details in the towers, arches, mosaics and statues, the palace has been declared a UNESCO heritage site. An impressive piece of work.

10.    Mountain adventure - the Massif du Vercors

Go on an adventure in the French Alps. In mountain massif Massif du Vercors, stretching across Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur and Rhône-Alpes, action enthusiasts are right at home. The area is known for its green valleys, cliffs, deep ravines and dramatic cliffs. It is a challenging area, with the highest point being the Grand Veymont at 2,341 metres. Besides the adrenaline and literal highs, Massif du Vercors also has historical significance. Indeed, it was an important resistance area during World War II. You will therefore find several memorial sites and museums there. 

Would you like to discover all the beauty of Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes? Check out our selection of holiday homes and discover the nature, history and geology of this special region!