12 of the Drôme’s Top Attractions

 
12 of the Drôme’s Top Attractions

From crocodiles to stilettos, the département offers something for everyone

Related article: The Drôme: The Organic Heart of France

GROTTE DE THAÏS

Enjoy a real-life adventure as you travel deep into this magical subterranean landscape. Marvel at the amazing rock formations and archaeological sites in one of the most colourful caves in France.

La Ferme aux Crocodiles

LA FERME AUX CROCODILES

This is a rare chance to see crocodiles up close and discover more about this much-misunderstood animal. In addition, there are giant tortoises and turtles, pythons and anacondas, iguanas and bearded dragons, and many more fantastic creatures.

Musée du Nougat

MUSÉE DU NOUGAT

Discover the history of nougat and its preparation (as well as its connection to the mythical holiday route, the N7) from within the oldest factory of Montélimar – dating back to 1837. There is also a gift shop, restaurant and tearoom.

Inside the extraordinary Palais Idéal du Facteur Cheval in Hauterives. Photo: Frédéric Jouhanin

PALAIS IDÉAL DU FACTEUR CHEVAL

Unique in the world, this amazing architectural creation was built by a postman called Cheval over a period of 33 years. Inspiring other artists for more than a century, it was listed as a Historical Monument in 1969.

Labyrinthes de Hauterives

LABYRINTHES DE HAUTERIVES

A stone’s throw from the Palais Idéal du Facteur Cheval, this enchanting attraction comprises a series of labyrinths created from more than 6,000 trees. An ideal place for all the family – there is also a picnic area.

courtesy of La Cité du Chocolat Valrhona

LA CITÉ DU CHOCOLAT

Situated on the site of Valrhona’s historic chocolate factory, here you can find out everything you ever wanted to know about chocolate but were too afraid to ask– and, naturally, shop for delicious delicacies afterwards.

Musée de la Résistance

MUSÉE DE LA RÉSISTANCE

Located in the heart of the Vercors, this fascinating museum presents the story of the Resistance and pays tribute to the men and women who fought for freedom and who also played a very an important role in this region. A must for history fans.

Musée de la Chaussure

MUSÉE DE LA CHAUSSURE

As the historical home of French shoemaking, it makes sense that the town of Romans has a museum dedicated to the subject. Here, you can discover every shoe imaginable from the old to the new and the classic to the eccentric.

Musée Européen de l’Aviation de Chasse

MUSÉE EUROPÉEN DE L’AVIATION DE CHASSE

A supersonic journey through the history of aviation, this museum is dedicated to the preservation of aeronautical heritage. Spread over five hangars, the unique collection includes 66 iconic aircraft.

Musée de Valence

MUSÉE DE VALENCE

Located in the former Episcopal Palace, a vast private mansion surrounded by a courtyard and gardens overlooking the Rhône, this impressive museum charts the history of the region as well as boasting several hundred artworks.

Marques Avenue

MARQUES AVENUE

The largest shopping centre for discount brands in the south of France, this is the place to stock up on fancy French labels at bargain prices. Located in an old army barracks, in the form of a village, the site is also interesting architecturally.

Grotte de la Luire

GROTTE DE LA LUIRE

Another underground adventure you won’t forget in a hurry, this is a chance to discover a geological phenomenon quite unlike any other in the world on a magical hour-long, candlelit guided tour. Also included in the experience is a special slide show.

From France Today magazine

 

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A freelance writer and editor, Caroline Harrap has been based between Paris and the UK for several years, and now lives near Montmartre. As well as contributing to France Today, she has also written for French Entrée, The Guardian and Local Food Britain, among others.

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