Rhône-Alpes Holidays from £161

Rhone-Alpes

With miles of downhill skiing runs in winter and long nature trails up the mountains in summer, this French region delights visitors year round. 

Book a holiday to Rhone-Alpes for adventure-packed days spent exploring its various landscapes. Snowy winters and mountain terrain provide a classic alpine ski experience. As the snow thaws, peaceful lakes and gently flowing rivers attract walkers of all fitness abilities.

Rhone-Alpes is peppered with castles, churches and monasteries that stand as a testament to its heritage and spiritual past. Look for Italian architectural influences, which became popular during the French Renaissance. Rhone-Alpes is also known for its contemporary architecture, the most notable example being the train station at Lyon’s airport, where concrete, steel and glass combine to form a bird-shaped structure.

Stay a while in Lyon, a city with a UNESCO-listed historic quarter, set between two rivers. Marvel at ancient artifacts at the Musée des Beaux Arts and dine in one of its many Michelin-starred restaurants. Take the funicular railway up to Notre-Dame de Fourvière for sweeping views over the city. 

Further south in the city of Grenoble, spend hours surveying the exhibits of the MAGASIN - National Centre for Contemporary Art (CNAC) and visit the Fort de la Bastille, which was built to defend from invasion.

In the summer months, walk along the shores of Lac du Bourget, the largest freshwater lake in France or relax in the thermal baths of the popular spa town, Aix-les-Bains. Further south in the Gorges de l'Ardèche natural reserve sits the Pont d’Arc, a natural arch that straddles the Ardeche River.

Winter is a popular time to visit Rhone-Alpes as the ski areas in the French Alps open up for business. Head to Tignes for glacier skiing, Les Arcs for plenty of intermediate slopes or Avoriaz to try out your snowboarding skills. For the most skiing for your money, try Les Trois Vallees, where a single pass gives you access to 373 miles (600 kilometres) of trails.

Reach Rhone-Alpes via direct train from Paris or fly into one of its many airports. Lyon St. Exupery has good connections with much of Europe, while Geneva Airport services global destinations.

For a change from outdoor activities, attend a theatre show and experience some traditional French drama.