Rhones Alps / Auvergne

This is one of the most scenic areas in France, with dense forests, lush pasture land, huge lakes, deep gorges and spectacular mountains.

Three types of Rhone landscape

One of the unique characteristics of the Rhone-Alpes region is its diversity of landscapes, unmatched in the rest of France. You’ll find that it is continental in some places, alpine in others and Mediterranean elsewhere. There’s a rich heritage in this region, attributed to its historic role as a hub for the main trading routes in Europe.

The stunning views and challenge of the French Alps, dominated by Mont Blanc, have long attracted climbers and walkers in the summer and winter sports enthusiasts in the winter. Make sure to visit Chamonix, a noted ski resort and mountain climbing centre.

The Rhône River passes through Lyon, the vibrant regional capital which is not only a UNESCO World Heritage site but also the gastronomic centre of France. Alcep is well versed in local haute-cuisine restaurants, so why not ask us about the next budding ‘super-chef’, while prices are still reasonable?
 

Going slow in Auvergne

Time seems to move at a slower and more agreeable pace in the Auvergne, which is part of the Massif Central. Similar in many ways to the Scottish Highlands, it has a terrain, climate and people (the Auvergnats) all of its own.

The emphasis here is definitely Nature, and volcanoes in particular. The region hosts the Parc des Volcans, France’s largest concentration of recently active volcanoes (well, during the last Ice Age anyway). The park also contains the Vulcania theme park. Check out Earth’s Rage, the new interactive simulator with special effects.

Alpine and Auvergne gastronomy

All that Alpine freshness gives you a healthy appetite. Try the Cevelas Truffè, a lightly cured pork sausage with truffles, served with lots of Beaujolais. In Auvergne, go for their special cheeses like Sainte-Nectaire, Blue d’Auvergne or Fourme d’Ambert, accompanied with a glass of Saint-Pourcain red wine.