Ski France
Chamonix, France
Chamonix Area Excursions & Attractions
Perouges
Depart to France's second largest city and medieval jewel, Perouges.
Perouges is a fortified village that was originally founded by settlers
coming from Perugia, Italy. Tightly contained within the ramparts,
the tortuous streets and ancient houses of Perouges have formed
the perfect setting for many a period film. The older buildings
are timber-framed with projecting upper stories. The modest artisans
houses contrast with those of the richer townsfolk and gentry which
have mullioned windows and basket-handle arches, characteristic
of the local response to Renaissance influences.
Lyon
Continue on to Lyon, with its two millennia of history, a site at
the meeting point of the Rhone and Saone Rivers. Its past periods
of greatness, in Roman and Renaissance times, are matched by its
cultural dynamism. Fourviere hill is the site of Roman ruins, including
a double amphitheater plus an impressive basilica that looks out
over the old and new cities. The medieval and Renaissance quarter
of Lyon extends along the west bank of the Saone River at the base
of Fourviere hill. This area contains some of the best preserved
Renaissance architecture outside Italy. The peninsula, formed by
the two rivers, is in the heart of the modern city, but still maintains
the charm of the French classical period.
Aoste (Tuesdays only)
Proud of its peculiarities (it is autonomous and bilingual Italian-French,
since 1861), the valley of Aoste is a strategic crossing-point since
opening up the Great St. Bernard and the Mont-Blanc tunnels. You
will see the Roman Theater, the Roman ramparts, the Praetorian doors,
and the forum. Not surprising as it was founded in 23 BC by the
Romans. The morning is free for shopping; sightseeing in the afternoon.
Return to Chamonix at 6:30 pm.
The above are examples only and subject to change.
