Explore the Rhone Valley: Scenic Vineyard Walks, Exquisite Cuisine, and Stunning Views

Tournon sur Rhone and the Vineyards of Hermitage

The area of the Rhone valley around Tournon and Tain l’Hermitage boasts spectacular vineyard views, along with historic towns featuring castles and towers. Tournon castle, which overlooks the Rhone river, is a prime example.

Getting Your Bearings

This map represents the northern Rhone region, situated within the Rhône-Alpes area. The Rhone river serves as a natural boundary between the Ardeche département to the west and the Drome to the east. By walking across the pedestrian suspension bridge at Tournon Sur Rhone in the Ardeche, you can easily reach Tain l’Hermitage in the Drome département.

The renowned vineyards of Hermitage are predominantly located on the Tain l’Hermitage side, benefiting from exposure to the afternoon sun. Observing them from Tournon provides picturesque views, as this area hosts a greater selection of restaurants and accommodations.

Introduction to Walking in France

Since the Rhone Valley is best discovered by walking, it’s noteworthy that there are over 100,000 miles of trails throughout France, including those that extend from the village of Tain-l’Hermitage, taking moderately fit walkers through the scenic vineyards of Hermitage and Crozes-Hermitage. These trails are well-marked, well-maintained, and provide spectacular views of the surrounding countryside of Drome and Ardeche, as well as charming villages, towers, and castles along the Rhone.

The Path of the Towers in Tournon-sur-Rhone

An intriguing short path that commences at Tournon Sur Rhone is the Sentier des Tours, or the Path of the Towers. This route allows visitors to explore two of the three towers depicted on the town’s crest, while also viewing the third in ruins.

Where to Eat in Tournon sur Rhone – La Chaumiere

Interestingly, the least expensive restaurant often ranks among the best. La Chaumiere became a highlight when a diner praised the food’s quality. Almost everyone enjoys the value of the economical three-course meal on the menu.

Where to Taste Wine and Have a Bite – Des Terrasses du Rhone

If you’re looking to enjoy small bites of regional cuisine while savoring local wines, consider visiting Des Terrasses du Rhone, a tapas bar offering wine pairings conveniently located near the pedestrian bridge in Tain-l’Hermitage.

Prices are very reasonable. For a plate of sliced meats (charcuterie), you’ll spend five Euros, while pairing it with a glass of Saint-Joseph red, one of the more premium local wines, brings it to seven Euros. Glass prices range from 2.50 to 9 Euros (prices from 2008).

Where to Taste and Buy Local Wines

The Cave de Tain stands as the largest wine cooperative in the region, providing a diverse selection of local wines and bottle sizes for purchase. If you plan to visit just one location, this could be the ideal spot. The staff are friendly, helpful, and fluent in English, so feel free to ask any questions you may have. Free tastings are also available.

Where to Stay – Renting a Vacation House or Apartment

For those planning an extended stay to explore the region, renting a house or apartment offers the most economical and enjoyable experience. In France, vacation rentals are referred to as “gites” or similar variations, and there are several options in the Rhone valley, particularly surrounding Lyon.