Visiting the small towns and villages in France's Vallée de la Gastronomie is a journey through the heart of the country’s culinary heritage. This picturesque region spans from Dijon at the top of Burgundy down to Lyon, covering some of France’s most renowned gastronomic areas, including the Rhône Valley and Burgundy.

The Vallée de la Gastronomie is more than just a geographical route; it's a celebration of France’s cherished (and UNESCO-protected) food and wine culture, offering travelers the chance to discover local specialties, meet artisans, and explore beautiful landscapes that are deeply connected to the art of fine dining. (It should also be noted that the term “Vallée de la Gastronomie” isn’t a legal designation from the French government in the way AOCs are for wine, but even as marketing, it’s generally accepted and makes it easier to pinpoint the area.)

Getting to the Vallée de la Gastronomie is relatively easy. Whether you’re traveling from Paris or another European destination, high-speed trains and flights to the area are widely available.

The region is well-connected by the French train network (SNCF), with major cities like Lyon, Dijon, and Mâcon—each serving as excellent starting points. You can take the high-speed rail (TGV) from Paris or Marseille to one of these smaller cities, and from there you can also connect on the local trains (TER) to reach the villages.

You can also rent a car, which is ideal for exploring the smaller, tucked-away villages at your own pace.

For a well-rounded experience, it’s recommended to spend at least five to seven days exploring the region. This will give you time to visit the larger cities while also delving into the smaller, lesser-known towns and villages where the true essence of French culinary culture shines. Each village offers something different—whether it’s a local market, a family-run vineyard, or a centuries-old recipe passed down through generations.

From enjoying a leisurely lunch in a small village square to walking through vineyards and olive groves, the Vallée de la Gastronomie offers a sensory experience that is as enriching as it is delicious. Whether you’re a food lover or simply a lifelong Francophile, this region is a must-visit.

Tournus

Tournus, located in the southern part of Burgundy, is a charming town known for its Romanesque architecture and proximity to the Mâconnais wine region. The highlight of Tournus is the Abbey of Saint-Philibert, an impressive medieval church dating back to the 10th century. Visitors can also explore the town's quiet streets, lined with local shops and restaurants offering traditional Burgundian cuisine.

For wine enthusiasts, the nearby vineyards of the Mâconnais are just a short drive away, producing excellent Chardonnay wines, particularly the well-known Pouilly-Fuissé. Tournus offers a range of accommodations, from charming bed-and-breakfasts to boutique hotels. The town is easily accessible by train from Lyon or Dijon, both about an hour away, making it an ideal stop for those exploring the region.

Charolles

Charolles, a picturesque town in Burgundy, is famous for its namesake cattle, Charolais, which are raised for their high-quality beef. The town is set in a lush, green landscape and is home to several historic buildings, including the Church of Sacré-Cœur and remnants of medieval fortifications.

Charolles is an excellent base for exploring the nearby Charolais-Brionnais region, known for its rolling hills and vineyards producing white and red wines, primarily Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Visitors can enjoy local cuisine in one of the town's quaint restaurants, which often feature dishes made with the region's famous beef. Accommodations range from family-run inns to more upscale hotels. The town is roughly a 1.5-hour drive from both Dijon and Lyon, making it accessible for those traveling by car.

Oingt-en-Beaujolais

Oingt-en-Beaujolais is a picturesque medieval village perched on a hill in the Beaujolais region, offering stunning views of the surrounding vineyards. Known as one of the "Most Beautiful Villages in France," Oingt is a perfect destination for those looking to experience the charm of rural French life. Visitors can explore its narrow cobblestone streets, visit art galleries, and sample Beaujolais wines in local cellars. The nearby vineyards, just minutes from the village, produce Beaujolais Nouveau and the more structured, age-worthy Beaujolais Crus, such as Morgon and Fleurie.

Accommodations in Oingt range from charming bed-and-breakfasts to boutique guesthouses, and there are a few small restaurants serving regional dishes. The village is about a 45-minute drive from Lyon, making it a convenient day trip or overnight stay for those touring the region.

Saint-Montan

Saint-Montan is a restored medieval village located in the Ardèche region, notable for its historic stone houses and narrow streets. The village, once abandoned, has been meticulously preserved, offering insight into its architectural and cultural heritage. Overlooking the town are the ruins of Saint-Montan Castle, which provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

For dining, visitors can enjoy lunch or an afternoon apéro at Le Robe Rouge, a bar and restaurant situated at the base of the castle. The nearby Ardèche River offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and canoeing. Approximately an hour's drive north from Avignon or two hours south from Lyon, Saint-Montan is well-suited for a day trip or a weekend visit.

Bourg-Saint-Andéol

Bourg-Saint-Andéol, located in the Ardèche region along the Rhône River, is a town rich in history and natural beauty. Its historic center is home to several architectural landmarks, including the Renaissance Château de Bourg-Saint-Andéol and the Romanesque Church of Saint-Andéol. The surrounding area is known for its lavender fields and vineyards that produce Côtes du Rhône wines, primarily Grenache, Syrah, and Viognier.

Visitors can take scenic drives through the countryside or enjoy wine tastings at nearby estates. The town offers a range of accommodations, from rustic inns to modern hotels, and has several restaurants serving traditional Provençal cuisine. Bourg-Saint-Andéol is about a 90-minute drive from Lyon, and it can be reached by train via nearby cities such as Montélimar.

Vallon-Pont-d'Arc

Vallon-Pont-d'Arc is a small town in the Ardèche region, known for its proximity to the iconic natural arch, the Pont d'Arc, and the breathtaking Gorges de l'Ardèche. This gateway to the Ardèche canyon attracts visitors interested in outdoor activities such as hiking, canoeing, and kayaking along the Ardèche River. The Pont d'Arc itself is a popular spot for locals, who often visit its beach for picnics, leisurely walks, or simply to read by the water. It’s also a common area for walking dogs, providing a peaceful retreat in a natural setting.

Nearby, the UNESCO-listed Chauvet Cave, known for some of the world’s oldest prehistoric art, offers an immersive experience through the replica Caverne du Pont d'Arc. In Vallon-Pont-d'Arc, cafés, restaurants, and shops cater to visitors, offering regional dishes and local wines. Located about an hour and a half from Avignon, the town is a destination for both nature lovers and those interested in both the Roman and medieval eras of French history.

Montélimar

Montélimar, known as the "gateway to Provence," is famous for its nougat, which can be sampled in various shops and confectioneries throughout the town. Beyond its sweet treat, Montélimar offers visitors historic sites like the Château des Adhémar, a medieval castle with panoramic views of the surrounding area.

The town is close to the Rhône Valley wine region, where wineries produce Côtes du Rhône and Crozes-Hermitage wines, known for their robust red blends of Grenache and Syrah. Accommodations in Montélimar range from budget-friendly hotels to more luxurious options, making it a convenient stop for travelers exploring southern France. The town is accessible by train from Lyon, which is about a 2-hour journey, or by car, making it a great base for exploring the vineyards and scenic countryside of the region.

A Guide to the Most Charming Villages in France's Vallée de la Gastronomie