After leaving the Lyon conurbation, the route returns to a flat profile and follows the Rhône through scenery that gradually shifts toward a more southern feel. Vienne, rich in remarkable Gallo-Roman heritage (an ancient theatre, the temple of Augustus and Livia), marks the first major heritage stop on this stretch.
The river then crosses the first renowned vineyard hillsides of the northern Rhône valley: Côte-Rôtie, Condrieu, then Saint-Joseph and Hermitage near Tournon-sur-Rhône, where terraced vines climb impressive slopes directly overlooking the river.
Arriving in Valence, a symbolic gateway to the Midi, closes out this stage marked by the gradual transition from Lyon’s scenery to that of Provence.
Indicative distance for this stretch.