7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Lyon

As a digital nomad living in Lyon, you have the unique opportunity to blend work and travel seamlessly. While the city itself offers a rich tapestry of culture and history, the surrounding regions present a plethora of weekend getaway options. From popular tourist spots to hidden gems, there's something for every type of traveler. Here are seven destinations that are perfect for a short trip away from the hustle and bustle of Lyon.

Annecy

Known as the "Venice of the Alps," Annecy is a picturesque town just a short journey from Lyon. With its crystal-clear lake, charming canals, and stunning mountain backdrop, it's a perfect spot for relaxation and outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy a stroll through the old town, a boat ride on Lake Annecy, or a hike in the surrounding hills. The town also hosts a variety of festivals throughout the year, adding to its vibrant atmosphere.

How to Get There: Annecy is easily accessible by train from Lyon, with the journey taking approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to visit the Palais de l'Isle, a historic building on an island in the middle of the Thiou canal, which has served various purposes over the centuries, including a prison.

Where to Stay: For a luxurious stay, consider the Imperial Palace, which offers stunning views of the lake and mountains. For a more intimate experience, Les Tresoms Lake and Spa Resort provides a serene setting and a wellness center.

Where to Eat: Le Freti is renowned for its delicious Savoyard cuisine, particularly its fondue and raclette, which are perfect after a day of exploring.

Beaujolais Wine Region

Just a stone's throw from Lyon, the Beaujolais wine region is a haven for wine enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful countryside retreat. The area is dotted with vineyards and quaint villages, offering ample opportunities for wine tasting and scenic drives. The region is especially lively during the Beaujolais Nouveau festival in November when the new vintage is celebrated.

How to Get There: The Beaujolais region is best reached by car from Lyon, which allows for easy exploration of the various vineyards and villages. The drive takes about 45 minutes to an hour.

Travel Tip: Visit the village of Oingt, one of the "Plus Beaux Villages de France" (Most Beautiful Villages of France), and enjoy panoramic views of the vineyards.

Where to Stay: Château de Pizay offers a luxurious stay among the vineyards, complete with a spa and an outdoor pool.

Where to Eat: Auberge du Paradis in Saint-Amour-Bellevue offers a creative and refined menu, with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients.

Perouges

Step back in time with a visit to Perouges, a medieval walled town that is considered one of the most beautiful in France. Wander through cobblestone streets, admire the well-preserved architecture, and feel transported to another era. The town is also known for its local specialty, the Galette de Pérouges, a sweet, sugary tart that's a must-try.

How to Get There: Perouges is about a 30-minute drive from Lyon, or you can take a train to Meximieux-Pérouges station and then a short taxi ride to the town.

Travel Tip: Visit the town on a Sunday when the local artisans open their shops and you can see traditional crafts being made.

Where to Stay: Hostellerie du Vieux Pérouges offers charming accommodations right in the heart of the medieval town.

Where to Eat: The Hostellerie's restaurant serves traditional dishes in a historic setting, complete with a fireplace and stone walls.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

For a weekend filled with adventure, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is the ultimate destination. Nestled at the foot of Mont Blanc, the highest peak in the Alps, Chamonix is a mecca for skiing, snowboarding, and mountaineering. In the warmer months, it's a hotspot for hiking, rock climbing, and paragliding. The town itself is lively, with plenty of shops, restaurants, and bars to explore.

How to Get There: Chamonix is about a 2-hour drive from Lyon. Alternatively, you can take a train to Saint-Gervais-les-Bains-Le Fayet and then a connecting train to Chamonix.

Travel Tip: Take the Aiguille du Midi cable car for breathtaking views of the French, Swiss, and Italian Alps.

Where to Stay: Hôtel Mont-Blanc offers luxury accommodations with stunning views and a spa to relax after a day in the mountains.

Where to Eat: For a unique dining experience, try the Refuge du Plan de l'Aiguille, which can be reached by cable car and offers traditional Savoyard dishes with a view.

Bourg-en-Bresse

Bourg-en-Bresse is a hidden gem located northeast of Lyon, known for its remarkable Bresse chicken and the Royal Monastery of Brou. The monastery is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and houses the tombs of the Dukes of Savoy. The town's historic center is also worth exploring, with its colorful buildings and local markets.

How to Get There: The town is about an hour's drive from Lyon, or you can take a direct train which takes around the same time.

Travel Tip: Don't leave without trying the famous Bresse chicken, known for its quality and taste, at a local restaurant.

Where to Stay: The centrally located Hôtel Le Griffon d'Or offers comfort and elegance, with a wine bar that boasts an extensive selection.

Where to Eat: La Marelle is a restaurant that serves innovative dishes made from fresh, local ingredients, including the renowned Bresse poultry.

Yvoire

Yvoire is a medieval flower-filled village on the shores of Lake Geneva, often overlooked by international tourists. This fortified town is over 700 years old and is classified among the "Most Beautiful Villages of France." Visitors can enjoy the Garden of Five Senses, inspired by the Middle Ages, or take a boat trip on the lake to appreciate the stunning scenery.

How to Get There: Yvoire is about a 2-hour drive from Lyon. Alternatively, you can take a train to Geneva and then a boat to Yvoire, making for a scenic journey.

Travel Tip: Visit the Garden of Five Senses for a tranquil experience, as it's designed to stimulate each of your senses with its diverse flora.

Where to Stay: Hotel Restaurant Le Pré de la Cure offers cozy accommodations and is just a short walk from the lake and the village center.

Where to Eat: The hotel's restaurant serves local fish specialties and offers a terrace with views of the medieval town.

Cremieu

For a step off the beaten path, the medieval town of Cremieu, with its cobblestone streets and historic buildings, is a delightful choice. The town is known for its 15th-century market hall and the ruins of the 12th-century Château de Cremieu. The town hosts a lively medieval festival each September, which is a great time to visit and experience the local culture.

How to Get There: Cremieu is about a 45-minute drive from Lyon. Public transport options are limited, so driving is the most convenient way to visit.

Travel Tip: Explore the network of underground cellars beneath the town, which were used for storage in the Middle Ages and are now open for tours.

Where to Stay: Domaine de Bienassis offers a peaceful stay in a renovated farmhouse with modern amenities and a swimming pool.

Where to Eat: La Table Médiévale offers traditional French cuisine in a rustic setting, perfect for immersing yourself in the town's medieval atmosphere.