As the first rays of sunshine warm the valleys and the trees begin to bud, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes comes alive in the great outdoors! It’s the perfect season to hike the trails, cycle along the greenways, and (re)discover our charming towns before the summer crowds arrive.
In this article, we take you on a two-part journey through Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes: a literary immersion in Drôme Provençale for the Year of Sévigné, followed by a trip back in time to the heart of the medieval villages of the Rhône.
Grignan: A Royal Stopover in the Heart of the Year of Sévigné
Perched on its promontory, the village of Grignan, listed among the Most Beautiful Villages of France, seems suspended between heaven and earth. In 2026, the town will celebrate the 400th anniversary of the birth of its most illustrious resident: the Marquise de Sévigné. The festivities begin this spring, transforming this jewel of the Drôme Provençale into an open-air theater.
The Splendor of the Grand Siècle
Overlooking the lavender fields and vineyards, the Château de Grignan, a masterpiece of Renaissance and classical architecture, tells the fascinating story of the Marquise and her daughter, the Countess of Grignan. It was from their close bond that a now-famous correspondence was born. Strolling along the castle’s terraces offers a breathtaking view stretching all the way to Mont Ventoux.
A Spring in the Sign of the Pen
“Printemps Sévigné” brings a poetic atmosphere to the château: flower-filled rooms, monumental chocolate sculptures, and enchanting evening tours. For a truly immersive experience, don’t miss:
- Grignan 1690: A weekend of historical reenactments to relive the splendor of the 17th century – May 1st through 3.
- The Sévigné Giant Dictation: a giant dictation at Grignan Castle on June 18.
- The Festival de la Correspondance : which has been celebrating the art of letter-writing for 30 years – July 6–11.
- The opera “Ninon chez Madame de Sévigné”: an evening of opera in the castle’s main courtyard
- The Digital Scavenger Hunt: Follow in the Marquise’s footsteps, smartphone in hand, through the village’s narrow streets.
Best places in Grignan
Where to stay?
- La Ferme Chapouton Hotel: For the charm of an 18th-century building and its pool near the castle.
- Hôtel L’Instant Sévigné: A charming hotel located right in the heart of the village.
- Le Pavillon M: 5 luxury guest rooms for a wellness getaway with a spa.
Where to eat?
- Bistro Chapouton: Refined regional cuisine, awarded a Bib Gourmand.
- Le Pied de la Lettre: For a warm and delicious meal at the foot of the ramparts.
- Domaine de Montine – Chez Colette: A place to enjoy local products in an authentic setting.
The Medieval Rhône: Glimpses of Golden Stone and Charming Towns
Head north to the Rhône department for a timeless getaway. Nestled between the Beaujolais valleys and the ridges of the Monts du Lyonnais, spring brings a glow to the ochre and yellow facades of the villages in Pierres Dorées, giving them the feel of a French Tuscany.
A string of legendary cities
The journey begins in Oingt, listed among the “Most Beautiful Villages of France.” Here, artists’ shops and the Museum of Mechanical Music bring the cobblestone streets to life. Further on, Ternand, a “Petite Cité de Caractère,” watches over the Azergues Valley from atop its 12th-century ramparts.
For those who love breathtaking views, Riverie offers a spectacular stopover on its rocky outcrop, while Saint-Symphorien-sur-Coise impresses with its fortified silhouette and majestic collegiate church.
Unique experiences
The medieval Rhône can also be experienced in a fun way:
- Salva Terra: A medieval immersion park in Haute-Rivoire.
- The Gnolus: A modern treasure hunt (geocaching) that lets you explore local heritage while having fun.
- The Museum of the History of Winemaking in Beaujolais : In Ternand, explore the history of winemaking through the centuries.
- Medieval Rhône: a free web app to guide you through notable sites and picturesque villages: https://www.rhonemedieval.fr/
Best places in the Rhône
Where to stay?
- Le Clos des Fayettes (Theizé): Charming bed-and-breakfast rooms in a house with a pool.
- Le Talluy (Taluyers): A hotel-restaurant housed in a former priory, combining old-world charm with modern comfort.
- At the Montagny Prisons: For a unique and comfortable overnight stay in a place steeped in history.
Where to eat?
- La Table du Donjon (Oingt): A breathtaking view and creative cuisine that showcases the best of the Beaujolais region.
- Le Petit Meunier (Messimy): A restaurant serving hearty meals in a picturesque setting by a stream.
- Le Vin et Un Plat (Saint-Symphorien-sur-Coise): A welcoming spot that combines a wine cellar, a wine bar, and a restaurant.
Enjoy your stay in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes!
