Guide to Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

Outdoor Fun in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

The Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region is one of France’s most diverse and picturesque areas, combining two former regions, Auvergne and Rhône-Alpes, into a vast expanse of cultural, historical, and natural treasures. This is a place where every season offers new possibilities, from winter skiing in the snow-capped Alps to summer hikes through volcanic landscapes in the Massif Central. The region is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, history lovers, and anyone looking for an authentic taste of French life.

This region is composed of thirteen departments; they are Ain, Allier, Ardèche, Cantal, Drôme, Haute Loire, Savoie, Haute-Savoie, Isère, Loire, Puy de Dôme, Rhône and the Métropole de Lyon.

For those who love the thrill of outdoor sports, Rhône-Alpes offers an impressive array of options. The winter months are incredibly vibrant, with ski resorts such as Chamonix, Les Deux Alpes, and La Plagne attracting skiers and snowboarders from around the world. The interconnected slopes and variety of resorts make it suitable for families, beginners, and advanced skiers alike. Beyond skiing, ice climbing, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing are all accessible within the stunning landscapes of the French Alps.

In the summer, the region becomes a playground for hikers, mountain bikers, and climbers. Trails weave through pine forests, alpine meadows, and up to high-altitude viewpoints with panoramic vistas. Lakes like Lac d’Annecy and Lac du Bourget offer opportunities for swimming, kayaking, and sailing, drawing those who prefer water sports. The region’s varied topography means there’s always a new peak to conquer, a hidden valley to discover, or a scenic spot for a picnic.

Untamed Auvergne is known for its ancient volcanoes of the Massif Central, which boasts a dramatic landscape that feels untouched by time. The distinctive geology of Auvergne dates back millions of years, with volcanic cones, craters, and ridges that shape the terrain. This is a paradise for nature lovers, where winding trails lead to views that stretch across rolling hills, ancient forests, and mirror-like lakes.

Auvergne’s history is equally compelling. The region has been inhabited since prehistoric times and has seen the passage of Celtic tribes, Roman settlers, and medieval rulers. Landmarks such as the Puy de Dôme, a dormant volcano with a temple dedicated to Mercury, speak to the region’s deep-rooted past. Charming medieval towns like Salers and Le Puy-en-Velay add to the historical allure, offering cobbled streets, ancient churches, and Renaissance buildings.

The climate in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes varies dramatically, thanks to the region’s size and varied geography. In the mountainous areas, winters are cold and snowy, with temperatures often dropping well below freezing. This makes for ideal skiing conditions in the Alps, while lower valleys and plateaus experience milder, more temperate winter weather. Summer temperatures in the Alps are pleasantly warm, rarely reaching extremes, making it perfect for outdoor activities without the heat of lower elevations.

In the plains and cities, like Lyon and Clermont-Ferrand, summers can be quite warm, sometimes reaching highs of around 30°C (86°F), while spring and autumn offer mild and enjoyable weather with fewer tourists. This climate diversity allows residents and visitors to enjoy a range of seasonal activities, from spring hikes and summer festivals to autumn vineyard tours and winter skiing. Each season brings a fresh experience, making the region a year-round destination.

The Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region is not just about natural beauty; it’s also a cultural hub. Lyon, the region's capital, is famed for its UNESCO-listed Old Town and is known as the gastronomic capital of France. Here, traditional bouchons serve up hearty Lyonnaise cuisine, from coq au vin to tarte aux pralines. Beyond Lyon, the region is known for its cheeses, such as Beaufort, Reblochon, and Saint-Nectaire, and wines from the Rhône Valley, including the Côtes du Rhône and Beaujolais.

Local markets buzz with activity throughout the region, offering fresh produce, charcuterie, pastries, and wines. Food festivals and culinary events celebrate the region’s rich gastronomic heritage, drawing foodies from across France and beyond. The emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients makes dining in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes a true pleasure.

History buffs will find much to explore here. Lyon, with its Roman amphitheatre, medieval architecture, and Renaissance courtyards, is a city steeped in history. Vienne, another city with a rich past, boasts ancient Roman ruins, including a well-preserved temple and an amphitheatre that still hosts performances today. In Auvergne, towns like Le Puy-en-Velay serve as starting points for the famous Camino de Santiago pilgrimage, offering a glimpse into medieval life and the spiritual heritage of the region.

The region’s castles, such as Château de Chambéry and Château de Menthon-Saint-Bernard, are reminders of a feudal past, while abbeys, monasteries, and fortresses dot the countryside, each telling its own story of power, faith, and conflict.

With its combination of natural beauty, incredible culture, and economic vitality, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes has become an attractive destination for property investors. The strong rental market, particularly in popular areas like the ski resorts and around Lyon, offers promising returns for those looking to invest in holiday rentals or longer-term accommodations. The scenic countryside also appeals to those looking to relocate, offering an exceptional quality of life amidst picturesque surroundings.

The region's real estate market provides diverse opportunities, whether you’re drawn to a historic farmhouse in Auvergne, a chalet in the Alps, or a modern apartment in Lyon. The proximity to major European cities and the region’s reputation for excellent schools, healthcare, and infrastructure make it an ideal place to settle down or purchase a second home.

Whether you’re seeking an active outdoor lifestyle, a peaceful retreat in nature, or a thriving cultural scene, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes is a region that promises something for everyone. Embrace the charm, history, and vibrant life that await in this extraordinary part of France.

Click on the links below to learn about each department and see details of properties in that specific department. Learn about the most popular winter ski resorts in the Alps and see all our properties in the Auvergne Rhone-Alpes region.