Rhone-Alpes is a unique mixture of Alpine, Mediterranean and Continental climates. In the warm spring and summer months endless lavender fields, lush vineyards and exotic olive groves provide a picture-perfect backdrop for a short or long break. Later in the year autumn and winter bring snow to the famous peaks of the Alps. Holiday cottages are available throughout the region and are perfect for family holidays, romantic breaks or group skiing holidays.
The unique landscape of the region makes it possible to enjoy many activities whilst staying in a holiday cottage in the Alps. Popular activities include white water rafting, canoeing, caving (spelunking), climbing, hiking and mountain biking. Rhone-Alpes is home to Mont Blanc, which at 15, 771 feet is the largest peak of Europe, making it a popular destination for skiers from all over the world. There are many different skiing resorts to choose from including the south-western resorts of Alpe-d'Huez and les Deux-Alpes, while further north lie Courcheval and Val d’Isère. Finally even further north a Mont Blanc’s peak rises into view. Holiday cottages in the Alps near the lakeside town of Annecy are perfect for access to the ski areas of Megève and Chamonix.
There are many cycling and walking routes throughout the region, which is home to four nature parks: Vanoise, Vercos, Pilat and Ecrins. Exploring the unspoilt scenery of these epically beautiful parks is a must during any stay in a holiday cottage in the Alps. Details about walking and cycling routes in the area that you are visiting can be found from a local tourist office.
The rich history of the region of Rhone-Alpes has resulted in many amazing sights including the Château d’Annecy, a restored castle in the Haute-Savoie département.
The town purchased the castle and turned it into the Musée Château d’Annecy – a museum which explores traditional Savoyard arts and crafts through a display of furniture and fine art.
Lyon, the capital city of Rhone-Alpes, boasts a rich history and is regarded as the food capital of France. There are many holiday cottages in the Alps near Lyon, making it the perfect place for a day of sightseeing. The city was the second largest city in the Roman Empire and visitors can see the ancient remains of the Théâtres Romains de Fourvière, the Lyon Roman Amphitheatre, thermal baths and part of the Aqueduct system.
The most popular attraction of Lyon is the “Traboules” - an intricate labyrinth of inner passageways which were hidden behind large doors. The city was the silk manufacturing heart of the world and originally the passageways were needed to transport silk safely. However during WW2 they played a key part in the French resistance as fighters often escaped into the passageways when pursued by the Gestapo. There are guided tours of the “Traboules” available as well as a chance of seeing working silk looms which are known as canuts in the Saint Jean area.
The famous produce of Rhone-Alpes will tantalize all of your taste buds. During a stay in a holiday cottage in the Alps be sure to sample some of the region’s local wines which include Beaujolais and Côtes-du-Rhône. The local cheeses are also delectable with Morbier and Comté being two of the most renowned. Montbéliard and Morteau sausages are another local delicacy not to be missed. Near most holiday cottages in the Alps you will find local food markets, where you will find fresh produce that will be ideal for your self-catering holiday. There will also be many local cafés and restaurants that are experienced in creating the best possible dishes out of Rhone-Alpes' finest ingredients.