Tournon (Tain-'Hermitage)

Nestled on opposite sides of the river in the heart of the Côtes du Rhône, the twin cities of Tournon and Tain-l'Hermitage are an ideal destination for connoiseurs of fine wine. Tournon may be a small town, but stirring events took place here: A castle was raised on the hilltop in the 10th century to protect the region, and new fortifications were added over the centuries, including two "new" towers built to defend against Protestant attacks in the 16th century. You'll see the handsome houses constructed by wealthy merchants and garrison officers when you walk through the Rue de Doux area, and you will pass the 14th century church - unusual for the number of houses incorporated in its walls - and the oldest secondary school in France. Cross the pretty flower-decked Marc Seguin suspension bridge to Tain-l-Hermitage to visit local wine cellars or browse through the shops or the Valrhona chocolate factory.

  • Tournon (Tain-'Hermitage), France