What to do and see in Tournon-sur-Rhone, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes: The Best Budget-friendly Things to do

Bridge between Tournon sur Rhône and Tain L'Hermitagne, built in 1849 by engineer Marc Seguin, first suspension bridge with iron cables. Listed as a historic monument.

The Garden of Eden is the former park of the Cordeliers monastery and the Notre Dame convent. It is a magical, authentic and historic place, full of basin, ponds and trees of various species : an island of coolness and greenery in the heart of the city. The Garden has managed to keep the charm of former days. Covering a one hectare area, it is surrounded by old ramparts and of its tower rebirth, narrow footpaths and a stream having its source at the top of the hill. One can still find remains of old dwellings and small bridges. Steps will lead you to the panoramic viewpoint through shaded areas. A quiet and soothing atmosphere radiates from this preserved haven of peace. The Garden of Eden offers a wonderful view over the Rhone and the twin towns of Tournon and Tain l’Hermitage; on the river banks facing the garden, you will admire the famous vineyards, remarkable for their terrace cultivation.

Behind the impressive castle on its granite rock, seigneurial home of the Comtes de Tournon, is a maze of narrow streets meandering through the historic center. Since the Early Middle Ages to the 18th century the Tournons have left a great cultural heritage thanks to different monuments such as the Chateau de Tournon (see on page 7 “Our favourite attractions”) but also the Collegiate Church Saint Julien built in the 14th century with its magnificent frescoes in the Chapelle des Penitents. The town is then strongly fortified during the Hundred Years’ War, but it will expand beyond the wall after it quickly became prosperous again. In the south, the Porte de Mauves can be admired, the last stable door which once closed the town (there used to be 4) and where the coat of arms of the town is still to be seen. 2 watchtowers are left in the north and the south of the Sentier des Tours, a marked walking path which used to go along the wall in the 16th century. It is also a nice one-hour walk.

Located along the Rhône river, Tournon castle, a classified historical monument, dates back to the 15th ans 16th centuries. Thanks to its remarkable state of preservation and its medieval, defensive and avant-garde architecture, it is one the most beautiful castles in Ardèche. The Castle-museum is a place of memory. The Counts of Tournon, one of the most powerful families in the region, lived here. Visiting the rooms is a fascinating journey through time. The museum includes fine arts collections and Rhône river collections.