Vienne and the Roussillon region

Vienne has an extraordinarily rich collection of ancient Roman remains and Christian works of art.

Take time to explore the town's Roman and medieval heritage, including the ancient theatre which hosts a jazz festival every summer, the temple of Augustus and Livia, the Cybèle archaeological gardens, and the cathedral of St Maurice.

Rich collections are on display at the Museum of Art and Archaeology, the Lapidary Museum and the archaeological site of St Romain en Gal, with some very fine mosaics.

About thirty kilometres from Vienne, you will come to the historic town of Roussillon, which has preserved some of its original ramparts.

Visit the Renaissance chateau, where the Edict of Roussillon was signed by Charles IX in 1564, declaring the first of January as the first day of the calendar year. A number of circuits have been put together with themes of flowers and fruits, the hills and the Varèze.

Your next stage is Ville sous Anjou with its animal museum, where more than 500 stuffed animals are displayed in their typical habitats. Film projections and guided tours available.

Continue towards Montseveroux, a charming country village perched on a ridge.

The 13th-century chateau has a fine square courtyard used every summer for a folk festival.

Visit the Romanesque 12th-century church of Saint Martin, then go on to the bustling commercial town of Beaurepaire.

The town has retained its 16th-century checkerboard layout. It is overlooked by the Augustinians' tower, a former Benedictine church dedicated to Saint Peter (15th century).

Follow the marked tour to find out more about historic Beaurepaire.

Return to Grenoble via Pénol with its 12th-century church, and Saint Jean de Bournay.

Worth seeing:

Discover Ile de la Platière and conservation areas in the lower Rhone valley

Les Roches de Condrieu port and recreation area

Worth tasting:

Côtes du Rhône wines

Pear brandy

Blackcurrant liqueurs and jams