ViaRhôna: From the

ViaRhôna: From the Alpes to the Mediterranean © Beegoo/Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes Tourisme For some, going on a journey is not just about reaching the destination. It’s about enjoying the process of the journey, the discovery of the surroundings which we find ourselves in as we move towards the destination says Amy Macpherson as she traces the path of the Rhône river through the villages and towns that line its banks, from the Alps to the sea. My journey followed the route of the ViaRhôna, one of France’s newest, still developing cycle routes which, when completed, will take explorers on a slow journey of 505 miles (813 km). The entire trip would normally take around two weeks, it was time I didn’t have. So I began at a halfway point, from the town of Vienne whose history stretches back to the Celtic period in 5BC, before becoming the ancient capital of Roman Gaul, and where the mighty Empire built two amphitheatres and a forum. Today Vienne is a vibrant city which hosts one of the most popular jazz festivals in France. Before I set off, I needed supplies, bikepacking is hungry work. Vienne has a plethora of delicious bakeries and chocolateries. Try the galet du Rhône at Panel chocolaterie, a local favourite for almost a century, the hazelnut, praline and almond concoction in a nougatine shell, dipped in rich chocolate and smothered in dark chocolate powder is utterly scrumptious. And La Fromagerie Viennoise stocks delicious cheeses, perfect paired with a crispy baguette. While you’re in the city, don’t miss a visit to the Roman Temple of Augustus and the Gallo-Roman ruins at Jardin de Cybèle. Chestnut products at the market © Max-Coquard-Bestjobers Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes Tourism 96 | The Good Life France The Good Life France | 97