 Founded
more than 2000 years ago, and originally named “Lugdunum”
by the Romans, the city of Lyon is renown for great food, museums,
its university and the revered old town. Located just two hours
from the alpine ski resorts and three hours from the sea, Lyon
- the capital of the Rhône-Alpes region - is a must visit
for those in search of sun or ski. Now
is the perfect time to visit Lyon if you’re looking
for a cheap winter break early in 2005. Great deals can be
found throughout January to April, when you’ll not only
avoid the crowds but also the higher French school-holiday
rates. Containing Mont Blanc (the highest peak in Europe at
15,771 feet) and four natural parks (Vanoise, Vercors, Pilat
and Ecrins) the Rhône-Alpes region has a much milder
climate than many of its American counterparts and boasts
an average of 350 inches of snow from Dec-April. With the
average cost of a 6-day lift pass around £95-£100,
and with accommodation ranging from no-frills apartments to
luxurious hotels, Lyon offers skiing for everyone at a reasonable
price.
If the
vertical pistes and powder snow doesn’t appeal to you,
the city of Lyon is a beautiful centre through which to stroll
and explore. Situated between two hills - the Fourvière
and Croix-Rousse - and between two rivers - the Rhone and
the Sâone, the city is characterised by contrast. Becoming
a ‘World Heritage City’ in December 1998, Lyon
presents a fascinating mix of architecture, cultures and people.
One of the most charming districts in town is the Vieux Lyon
area that is home to the largest collection of Renaissance
buildings in Europe. Why not take a stroll through the streets,
appreciating the architectural splendour of the Cathédrale
St-Jean (built from 1180-1480) and the colossal Notre Dame
de Fourviere, or perhaps break the bank amongst the fashionable
shopping streets of the Rue Victor Hugo? The elegant Place
des Terreaux plays host to numerous restaurants, cafes and
bars, all of which promote Lyon’s gastronomic characteristics,
selling wines such as Beaujolais and Côtes-du-Rhône,
local cheeses and typical dishes.
The combination of historic architecture alongside the cultural
and gastronomic delights of today, all make Lyon far more
than just a pit-stop on the way to the Mediterranean Sea or
the ski slopes, but a city worth a visit in its own right.
|
Fed
up of the usual box of chocs, soppy card and bunch of flowers??
Well why not push the boat out this Valentines Day and getaway
from it all!!? 
Pencil’s
down, lunch boxes away and ruck sacks on!! Half term is
looming and it's about time you started thinking of ways
to keep your “little terrors” occupied.
