Guide to Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

Outdoor Fun in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

The Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region is one of France’s most picturesque areas, combining two former regions, Auvergne and Rhône-Alpes, into a vast expanse of cultural, historical and natural treasures. It 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.

Adventures in All Seasons

This is a place where every season offers new possibilities, from winter skiing in the 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.

Winter Wonderland

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 worldwide. 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.

Refreshing Summer Escapades

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 swimming, kayaking, and sailing opportunities, 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.

The Untamed Beauty of Auvergne

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 lush rolling hills, ancient forests and mirror-like lakes.

Historical Tapestry

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.

Climate for Every Adventurer

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 below freezing. This makes for ideal skiing conditions in the Alps, while lower valleys and plateaux 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.

Seasonal Activities

In the plains and cities, like Lyon and Clermont-Ferrand, summers can be 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.

Cultural Hub of Gastronomy

The Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region is not just about the surrounding beauty and the mountains; 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 area 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.

Vibrant Local Markets

Local markets buzz with activity throughout the region, offering fresh produce, charcuterie, pastries, and wines. Food festivals and culinary events celebrate the region’s 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.

Historical Exploration

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 town with a rich past, boasts ancient Roman ruins, including a well-preserved temple and an amphitheatre that still hosts performances and festivals today. In Auvergne, towns like Le Puy-en-Velay are starting points for the famous Camino de Santiago pilgrimage, offering a glimpse into medieval life and the spiritual heritage of the region.

Majestic Castles and Heritage Sites

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.

Attractive Destination for Property Investors

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.

Diverse Real Estate Opportunities

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.

Facts and Figures

• Capital city: Lyon
• Population: Approx. 8.0 million (around 12% of France's population of approx. 68 million)
• Area: 69,711 sq kilometres (approx. 26,916 sq. miles), about 12.5% of France's total area
• Density: About 115 inhabitants per sq.m kilometre, slightly above the national average of 106

Tourism Information

• Number of Tourists per Year: approximately 20 million.
• Km of Mountains: 250 km from Lake Geneva to the Mediterranean foothills near Gap
• The Highest Peak: Mont Blanc (4,808 meters), the highest in western Europe
• Km of Skiing Domaine: Approximately 8,000 km
• Number of Ski Resorts: Over 200 ski resorts
• Average Sunshine Hours per Year: Around 2,000 hours
• Châteaux in the Region: Over 50 châteaux, notably the Château de la Bastie d'Urfé (Loire), Château de Grignan (Drôme), and Château de Suze-la-Rousse (Drôme).
• Most Famous Landmark: Mont Blanc
• Golf Courses: Over 80 golf courses, including the Evian championship course

Getting to Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

The main cities are Lyon, Grenoble, Saint-Étienne, Clermont-Ferrand and Chambéry. They can be accessed using the road network (motorways, national and departmental roads), the train network, or by air. Here's a list of the region's airports and main train stations.

Airports

• Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport
• Grenoble-Isère Airport
• Chambéry-Savoie Airport
• Clermont-Ferrand Auvergne Airport
• Saint-Étienne-Bouthéon Airport

Main Train Stations

• Lyon-Part-Dieu Station
• Lyon-Perrache Station
• Grenoble Station
• Saint-Étienne-Châteaucreux Station
• Clermont-Ferrand Station
• Chambéry-Challes-les-Eaux Station

Regional Tourist Hotspots

• Mont Blanc
• Lyon
• Grenoble
• Chamonix
• Annecy
• Clermont-Ferrand
• Saint-Étienne
• The French Alps
• The Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Natural Park
• The Vercors Regional Natural Park

National Parks in the Region

• Parc national des Écrins
• Parc national de la Vanoise
• Parc national du Mercantour (shared with Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur)

Regional Nature Parks

• Parc naturel régional des Volcans d'Auvergne
• Parc naturel régional du Pilat
• Parc naturel régional du Vercors
• Parc naturel régional Livradois-Forez
• Parc naturel régional des Monts d'Ardèche
• Parc naturel régional de la Chartreuse
• Parc naturel régional du Massif des Bauges

UNESCO Sites in the Region

• Historic Sites in around Lyon
• Prehistoric Pile Dwellings around the Alps (shared with other regions)
• The Decorated Cave of Pont d'Arc, known as the Grotte Chauvet-Pont d'Arc
• Chaîne des Puys Limagne fault tectonic arena

Economic Information

• Economic Strength: Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes is a powerhouse region with a diverse economy, strong in manufacturing, technology, tourism, and agriculture.
• Gross Domestic Product: Approx. €270 billion (2022) around 10-11% of France's total GDP.
• Economy: Services, approx 70% (tourism, a significant economic driver, healthcare and Education, technology and innovation), industry 25% (manufacturing, energy, aerospace and defence) and agriculture 5% (dairy production and viticulture.)
• Unemployment Rate: Approximately 7.0% (France’s national rate = 7.2%)
• Universities and Grandes Écoles: Notable institutions include the University of Lyon, University of Grenoble, University of Clermont and the University of Saint-Étienne.
• Regional Specialties: Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes is famous for its cheeses, such as Saint-Nectaire, Cantal and Fourme d'Ambert. The region is also known for its charcuterie, including saucisson and rosette de Lyon. Wines from Beaujolais and Côtes du Rhône are renowned, as are traditional dishes like aligot (cheese fondue) and tartiflette.

Welcome in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

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 and vibrant life that await in this breathtaking French region.

Click on the links on this page to learn about a specific department, explore the most popular winter resorts, use our handy draw map to narrow your search and browse through our properties in the Auvergne Rhone-Alpes.