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Call us FREE 0800 204 4635
Opening Hours - Office closed, we'll open at 8:30am
Located in Southern France by the right bank of the Rhône River, Tournon sur Rhône is a small commune with just over 10,000 citizens. Attractions in this secluded location include the castle of Tournon labelled as ‘Musée de France" and the Pont Grand (Great Bridge) which is listed as having one of the biggest bridge arches in the world before dating 1600. Tournon sur Rhône is a historical place with a lot to offer those visiting on a river cruise.
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Tournon and the surrounding Côtes du Rhône region is famous for its prominent vineyards. The warm climate is not only a draw for visitors, but the beautiful weather and distinct terroir are perfect for the production of some of France’s finest wines. Connoisseurs and enthusiasts alike will delight in sampling a glass or two from Tournon’s finest vintages. Your Tournon river cruise may include a guided tour of a local vineyard or perhaps you will have free time to explore, either way, we certainly recommend visiting a nearby vineyard to get a taste of Tournon sur Rhône.
Across the Rhône, Tournon is mirrored by the port town of Tain-l’Hermitage. Similar to Tournon on the right bank of the river, the town on the left bank is also famous for its wine-production, with signature appellations Hermitage AOC and Cornas AOC. After wine, the town is perhaps best known for its delicious chocolate, with visits to the Valrhona chocolate factory (which offers free samples) being cited as a must by travel experts. Due to the delicious wine and chocolate, the town can get busy with river cruise passengers, so we recommend trying to visit earlier or later in the day, to try and beat the crowds.
Within the town’s picture-perfect setting, there are plenty of interesting historical buildings to explore. In medieval times, the town was protected by twelve towers and ramparts, two of which remain standing today. The sight of the Tower of the Virgin overlooking the charming town is one you will spot from your river cruise ship as it is drawn near to the banks of Tournon. The town’s castle, Chateau de Tournon is well worth a visit, if only for the impressive views from atop its 16th Century towers.
When you visit Tournon sur Rhône on a river cruise, you will see how proud the people of the area are of their town, and with good reason! World-famous wines and delicious chocolate attract tourists from all over, but the people of Tournon are also incredibly proud of their natural scenery, the jewel in the crown being Le Jardin d’Eden. If your particular river cruise has not planned a visit to these botanical gardens, we highly recommend stopping by, even for a short while. Living up to its name, a sense of calm and peace emanates from the tranquil surroundings and shaded steps take you up to a viewing area where you can admire the local vineyards and views over the Rhône.