Weekend Getaways Near Major Cities in Lyon, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France

1. Lake Annecy

An alpine resort near the city of Annecy with stunning turquoise lake and a charming old town.

Natural Beauty: Offers breathtaking views, hiking trails and water activities.
Historic Charm: Features a picturesque medieval town with narrow cobbled streets and charming buildings.
Accessibility: Easily reachable by train or car from Lyon in less than two hours.

A well-preserved medieval castle near Lyon offering tours and events throughout the year.

Historical Significance: Showcases centuries-old architecture and artifacts.
Family-Friendly Activities: Offers interactive tours, workshops, and outdoor games for kids.
Romantic Setting: Ideal for couples seeking a unique and memorable experience.

An ancient Roman theater in Vienne hosting an international music festival every summer.

Cultural Experience: Provides a chance to enjoy classical music in a historic setting.
Festival Atmosphere: Offers an unforgettable experience with live performances and food vendors.
Outdoor Activities: Surrounded by parks and rivers, perfect for picnics or hikes before the concert.

A fortress in Grenoble offering panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains.

Panoramic Views: Provides a bird's-eye view of Grenoble and the French Alps.
Historical Significance: Symbolizes the city's resistance during the French Revolution.
Adventure Activities: Surrounded by adventure sports like rock climbing, hiking, and canyoning.

An industrial heritage site near Saint-Etienne showcasing the history of mining in the region.

Industrial History: Provides insight into the region's mining past and its impact on society.
Unique Architecture: Features well-preserved industrial buildings and landscapes.
Outdoor Activities: Offers hiking trails, bike paths, and opportunities for photography.

A royal residence in Chambéry featuring beautiful gardens and a museum.

Royal History: Showcases the history of the Savoy dynasty and its influence on France.
Garden Beauty: Offers a serene environment for picnics, walks, or simply enjoying the views.
Art and Culture: Houses an impressive collection of artworks and historical artifacts.

A hill in Lyon with a basilica and an ancient theatre offering stunning views of the city.

Historical Significance: Symbolizes the religious history of Lyon and its Roman heritage.
City Views: Provides a panoramic view of Lyon, including the Rhône and Saône rivers.
Cultural Experience: Offers museums, churches, and educational exhibits within the area.

A charming village with hot springs and a medieval castle in the Loire Valley.

Relaxation and Wellness: Offers relaxing spa treatments using natural hot spring water.
Historical Charm: Features a well-preserved castle with stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Scenic Drives: Located along picturesque roads perfect for road trips or motorcycle tours.

A charming village in the Chartreuse Mountains with a Carthusian monastery and hiking trails.

Religious History: Features the Great Chartreuse, one of France's most famous monasteries.
Nature and Adventure: Surrounded by pristine nature for hiking, skiing, or wildlife spotting.
Peaceful Retreat: Ideal for those seeking a peaceful and spiritual getaway.

A picturesque village in Beaujolais wine country with vineyards and charming restaurants.

Wine Tasting: Offers tastings of the famous Beaujolais wines and wine tours.
Scenic Landscapes: Features vineyards, rolling hills, and picturesque villages.
Foodie Experience: Home to delicious traditional French cuisine, particularly escargot and coq au vin.

A village with a series of islands and castles in the Loire Valley.

Natural Wonders: Offers a unique landscape of islands surrounded by marshlands.
Historical Charm: Features charming castles and medieval architecture.
Birdwatching Opportunities: Home to numerous bird species, making it a popular spot for birdwatchers.

A ski resort in the Vercors Mountains with underground caves and hiking trails.

Winter Sports: Offers skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports.
Underground Adventures: Features the famous Grotte Chauvet-Pont d'Arc cave tours.
Nature and Hiking: Surrounded by pristine nature for hiking, biking, or horseback riding.

An abbey in Tournon-sur-Rhône featuring a wine museum and vineyards.

Religious History: Showcases the history of monastic life and wine production.
Wine Tasting: Offers tastings of Saint-Joseph wines and wine tours.
Scenic Drives: Located along the Rhône Valley Wine Route, perfect for road trips or cycling.

A lakeside resort offering water sports, hiking, and horseback riding.

Water Sports: Offers sailing, kayaking, and other water activities.
Nature and Hiking: Surrounded by forests and hiking trails for nature lovers.
Equestrian Activities: Features horseback riding, pony rides, and equestrian events.

A resort on the shores of France's largest lake, offering water activities and stunning views.

Water Sports: Offers sailing, fishing, and other water activities.
Scenic Beauty: Features stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Historic Charm: Nearby Aix-les-Bains, a spa town with Roman origins.