Eurostar to Valence

Valence is a stunning little town which is often classed as the first step to the south of France, lying between Avignon and Lyon. It's often overlooked because of these two larger, more popular places, but Valence is definitely worth a visit. It has a romantic history, being the home of poetry and art, so it's the ideal location for a romantic getaway with your other half. The surrounding landscape is also enormously picturesque, as it lies next to the Rhone, amongst untamed countryside. Valence is one of the destinations available from the Eurostar connection service, so it's never been easier to reach.

About Valence

If you are keen on architecture, head into the centre of town and visit the Saint-Apollinaire Cathedral. It dates back to the eleventh century, making it one of the earliest examples of architecture in town, and is a great illustration of Romanesque design. Take a wander inside to the choir, and there you'll find a gorgeous statue that the whole town is proud of: a depiction of Pope Pius VI. Valence was his final home before he died in 1799, so his presence is widespread throughout the town. Another great example of architecture in Valence is the Maison des Têtes, a hotel dating back to the sixteenth century. Some incredible names have stayed in its rooms over the years. Take a stroll around the building and try and name some of the more well-known heads on the exterior, some of which include Hippocrates, Homer and Aristotle.

Like many French towns, Valence is well-known for its excellent fine-dining opportunities. It is the home of world-famous chef Anne-Sophie Pic, so if you can manage to get a reservation, eat out at her three Michelin star restaurant in town, La Maison Pic, for the finest food France has on offer. If you find yourself at a loss for what to have for dessert, there's only one answer: chocolate! Just twenty minutes away from Valence in Tain l'Hermitage is the exceptional chocolaterie Valrhona, and many of the shops in town stock its wonderful products. Valence is so proud of their chocolate that they even hold a Chocolate and Sweets Fair where you can try local recipes, such as truffles, Montélimar nougat, Valence fruits, and of course, Valrhona chocolate.

And if you find yourself at a loose end, some great day trip destinations are the Ardèche Gorges, the Soyons Archeological Site (great if you're with the kids), or the Pont d'Arc.

Valence by Eurostar Trains

You can get to Valence on one of the Eurostar's connection services. Eurostar trains depart from St Pancras International, a very easy-to-get-to destination in London. Your simplest option of connection services is to change Paris Gare du Nord, and take a taxi or get on the RER D to catch a connection train from Gare de Lyon. From there, there are a number of TGV services going directly to Valence. All in all, if you travel from London, you can expect the journey time to be about five hours.

Visit the official Eurostar web site to book your train tickets to Valence.