Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Charlieu to Annecy
By: Virtual Assistant
Charlieu and Annecy, two picturesque cities located in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of France, are connected by a scenic route that passes through mountains, lakes, and valleys. A road trip on this route is a perfect way to enjoy nature's beauty while experiencing the culture, history, and cuisine of the region. The drive from Charlieu to Annecy takes around two and a half hours, and the halfway point is Bron, 69, a city renowned for its museums and parks.
Top Five Things to do
1. Visit the Pont du Gard
The Pont du Gard is a Roman Aqueduct bridge that is over 2,000 years old. It is located near the town of Remoulins and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. This architectural masterpiece is an excellent example of the Roman's engineering skills, and its intricate design is a testament to their attention to detail. Visitors can walk across the bridge and explore its history.
Interesting Fact: The Pont du Gard is the highest of all Roman aqueduct bridges and is regarded as one of the most impressive ancient structures in the world.
2. Explore the Palais des Papes in Avignon
The Palais des Papes is an imposing palace constructed in the 14th century in Avignon. It was the residence of the Popes, and its grandeur and elegance are a tribute to the power and wealth of the Catholic Church during the Middle Ages. The palace is open to tourists, and visitors can marvel at its stunning architecture, art, and artifacts.
Interesting Fact: The Palais des Papes is the largest gothic palace in the world and served as the papal seat for over seven decades.
3. Relax at the Lake Geneva
Lake Geneva is one of the largest lakes in Europe and is located on the border of France and Switzerland. The lake's crystal-clear waters are surrounded by snow-capped mountains, lush forests, and quaint villages, making it an ideal spot to unwind and soak in nature's beauty. Visitors can swim, take a boat ride, or just sit by the water and admire the view.
Interesting Fact: Lake Geneva is believed to have been formed by a retreating glacier during the last ice age, some 10,000 years ago.
4. Walk around the Old Town in Annecy
The Old Town in Annecy is a picturesque medieval village with cobblestone streets, pastel-colored houses, and a charming canals system that flows through it. The town has a long history dating back to the Roman era, and its buildings and landmarks are a testament to the different architectural styles that have influenced it over the centuries. Visitors can stroll around the town, enjoy the local food and drinks, and learn about its fascinating past.
Interesting Fact: The Old Town in Annecy is sometimes called the "Venice of the Alps" because of its network of canals.
5. Ski in the French Alps
The French Alps are a vast mountain range that stretches across southeast France. They are a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding in the winter months and offer a variety of runs for beginners, intermediate, and advanced skiers. Besides skiing, visitors can also enjoy other winter sports, such as ice-skating, sledding, and snowshoeing.
Interesting Fact: Mont Blanc, the highest peak in the French Alps, is the highest mountain in Western Europe, standing at over 4,810 meters.
Conclusion
The road trip from Charlieu to Annecy is one of the most scenic and culturally rich routes in France. Visitors can explore ancient Roman architecture, visit historic palaces, and relax by a beautiful lake. The route also offers breathtaking views of the French Alps and the chance to ski on some of the world's best slopes. The trip takes around two and a half hours, but visitors are bound to come away with memories that will last a lifetime.