3 Best Sights in Lyon and the Alps, France

Berges du Rhône

Fodor's choice

Lyon has spent the last 15 years spiffing up 5 km (3 miles) of its Berges du Rhône waterfront via pedestrian-only walking paths and cycling routes that take you past water gardens, meadows, sunning decks, petanque pitches, and a slew of lively bars and cafés all enjoying fabulous views and cool breezes over the Rhône. Open year-round, this is a big summer hot spot for the Lyonnais, who flock here after work to jog, picnic, and simply bask in the warm weather. For a map of the Berges areas, stop in at the tourist office at Place Bellecoeur or have a look online.

Belvédère of le Rocher de Châteauvieux

Situated in the old religious quarter high over the town, this 14th-century fortification (built in 1359) provides an exceptional 360-degree panorama over the port, the river, Vivier's rooftops, and the Rhone Valley.
Notable Building Free
Esplandade de Châteauvieux, Viviers, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, 07220, France
04–75–54–54–20

Pont Romain

This exceptional example of a Roman bridge, built over the Escoutay River, is well worth the mile walk from the town center. Typical of the second century Roman style, with central portions dating from the second or third century, the bridge was reinforced in medieval times. The 330-foot long structure retains 11 of its original 12 or 13 arches and was part of a Roman road built to carry wine and salt through the region. For intrepid sightseers, the Chapelle Saint-Ostian is about a half-mile up the road.
Ruins Free
Le Pont Romain, Viviers, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, 07220, France

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