7 unusual romantic weekends around Lyon
Dreaming of a romantic getaway near Lyon? The Rhône-Alpes region is bursting with unusual destinations that are perfect for a memorable romantic weekend away. From enchanting châteaux to unusual accommodation and unique experiences, discover our selection of 7 unusual weekends that will give you two a magical time together, far from the hustle and bustle of Lyon.
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1. A magical night in a tree house in the heart of the Chartreuse region
Just 1h30 from Lyon, the Chartreuse region offers an idyllic setting for a romantic weekend away. The perched cabins on the Entre Terre et Ciel estate promise a unique experience surrounded by fir and spruce trees, with a breathtaking view of the Aravis massif.
These unusual accommodations, equipped with water, electricity and heating, have a private terrace perfect for admiring the sunset. Some cabins even offer a private spa for moments of total relaxation. Breakfast is delivered in a basket directly to your cabin, adding a romantic touch to this natural getaway.
The estate also offers outdoor activities such as hiking and wildlife watching. It’s the perfect place to reconnect with nature and share intimate moments away from the world.
2. A romantic stay at Château de Champlong in the Roannais region
Just over an hour from Lyon, Château de Champlong welcomes you to a sumptuous setting in the Roannais region for an unforgettable romantic weekend away. This genuine 4-star medieval château has just 12 rooms, guaranteeing an intimate, personalised stay.
Each room is uniquely decorated to immerse you in the history of the region. The spa and outdoor swimming pool offer the perfect moments of relaxation for couples. But the jewel in the crown of this establishment is its gastronomic restaurant , La Table L’esSENSiel, run by chef Olivier Boizet, which sublimates local produce in an exceptional historic setting.
Download the audio tour to discover Roanne on foot and on your own
Although Roanne is not directly covered by the Navaway itineraries, make the most of your stay to explore this charming town in the Loire known for its exceptional gastronomy. Let the Navaway itineraries help you make the most of your visits to the Lyon region.
3. Romantic Escape in the Beaujolais vineyards
Wine lovers will be delighted in the Beaujolais region, just 45 minutes north of Lyon. This wine-growing region offers unusual romantic weekends in the heart of the vineyards, particularly in the Morgon region, one of the most prestigious Beaujolais crus.
Les Foudres du Chêne du Py in Villié-Morgon (69910 Villié-Morgon, rated 4.8/5 on Google out of 127 reviews) offers a unique experience: sleeping in authentic wine-making tuns converted into a guest room. This unusual accommodation includes a bedroom in one barrel and bathroom facilities in another, with a shaded terrace offering a panoramic view of the vineyards.
Enjoy private tastings of Morgon crus directly from the winemaker and discover the secrets of this wine with its notes of spice, kirsch and ripe fruit. The owners, members of the Vignerons Indépendants, will give you a warm welcome to share their passion for the Beaujolais terroir.
4. Relaxation and well-being in Aix-les-Bains on Lac du Bourget
Less than 100 km from the centre of Lyon, Aix-les-Bains is a top spa destination for a romantic and rejuvenating weekend away. This spa town nestling on the shores of Lac du Bourget, France’s largest natural lake, offers an exceptional setting for a romantic getaway.
The city’s 4-star spa hotels offer complete spa areas with pools, jacuzzis, steam rooms, saunas, sensory showers and ice fountains. The ultimate relaxation experience awaits you in these establishments, which combine luxury, well-being and lake views.
Download the audio tour to discover Aix-les-Bains on foot and on your own
Although Aix-les-Bains is not yet on our itineraries, let our Navaway itineraries help you make the most of your discovery of the region. Enjoy romantic strolls by the lake and the many water sports available.
5. An unusual night in a gypsy caravan in the Vercors
The Vercors, just 1h15 drive from Lyon via the village of Choranche, has an authentic, bucolic experience in store for you with the Roulotte des Tourtereaux. This unusual overnight stay in the heart of nature lets you reconnect with the authenticity of the French countryside.
Set in an idyllic setting beneath the Presles cliffs, this gypsy caravan offers you total immersion in nature. La Ferme du Clos also offers you the chance to discover the secrets of goat’s cheese making, and to take home your own heart-shaped cheese as a romantic souvenir of your stay.
There’s no shortage of activities in the Vercors: romantic hikes, stargazing from your caravan, and discovering the local flora and fauna. It’s the perfect unusual weekend for couples in search of authenticity and tranquillity.
Make the most of your stay to visit Grenoble, gateway to the Vercors, and let the Navaway itineraries guide you through the capital of the Alps.
6. A magical getaway near Lake Annecy
Just 1? hours from Lyon, Annecy and the surrounding region offer an exceptionally romantic setting for a romantic weekend away. The “Venice of the Alps” has a crystal-clear lake and surrounding mountains that create a picture-postcard setting.
There’s no shortage of unusual accommodation around the lake: floating cabins, converted barges and even perched chalets with panoramic views over the lake. Some establishments offer private spas with jacuzzis overlooking the lake for moments of absolute intimacy.
Download the audio tour to discover Annecy on foot and on your own
Annecy is one of the jewels covered by our Navaway audioguide tours. With 20 entertaining audio guides over a 2.6km, 1-hour tour, discover the secrets of this Alpine pearl. Let yourself be guided through the cobbled streets of old Annecy and along its romantic canals for an unforgettable experience for two.
There are plenty of romantic activities to choose from: private cruises on the lake, horse-drawn carriage rides through the old town, Savoyard cheese tastings in the mountain chalets, and hand-in-hand hikes along the trails of the Semnoz with panoramic views of the lake and the Alps.
7. Castle and gastronomy weekend near Chambéry
The Chambéry region, the former capital of Savoie, offers unusual romantic weekends in exceptional châteaux-hotels. Just 1h45 from Lyon, this destination combines historic heritage, Savoyard gastronomy and Alpine scenery for a complete romantic getaway.
Several of the region’s châteaux have been transformed into charming hotels offering unique experiences: suites in medieval towers, candlelit dinners in vaulted rooms, and spas in old cellars. The formal gardens of these historic residences are the perfect backdrop for romantic walks.
Download the audio-guided tour to discover Chambéry on foot and on your own
Chambéry has a complete Navaway audioguide tour, with 23 audioguides covering 3.4 km and 1? hours. Discover the history of this former ducal capital and let our itineraries lead you through its medieval streets and lively squares.
Local gastronomy has pride of place, with Michelin-starred restaurants offering tasting menus showcasing Savoyard products: mountain cheeses, traditional charcuterie, Savoy wines and mountain specialities revisited with creativity.
In conclusion, the Lyon region is full of unusual destinations perfect for memorable romantic weekends. Whether you’re attracted by the authenticity of a night in a perched hut, the refinement of a historic château, the relaxation of a thermal spa or the originality of a caravan in the heart of nature, each option offers a unique experience to strengthen your bond. These getaways will allow you to create unforgettable memories while discovering the hidden treasures of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. Let the Navaway itineraries be your guide to optimise your discoveries and make the most of these special moments together.
Frequently asked questions
What’s the best time of year for an unusual romantic weekend near Lyon?
Each season has its own charms for an unusual weekend near Lyon. Spring and summer are ideal for nature-based accommodation such as tree houses and gypsy caravans. Autumn offers magnificent scenery in the Beaujolais vineyards during the grape harvest. In winter, you can take full advantage of the spas and châteaux-hotels with their fireplaces and cosy atmospheres.
How do I book these unusual accommodations around Lyon?
Most unusual accommodation can be booked directly on their websites or via specialist platforms such as Abracadaroom or Weekend Desk. It is advisable to book in advance, especially at weekends and during school holidays, as these unusual types of accommodation are very much in demand.
How much should you budget for a romantic weekend away?
Prices vary according to the type of accommodation and the season. Expect to pay between €150 and €300 a night for a tree house or caravan, €200 to €500 for a château-hotel, and €250 to €400 for accommodation with a private spa. These prices usually include breakfast and sometimes special activities.
Is this accommodation accessible by public transport?
As most of the unusual accommodation is located in the countryside or in villages, a car is generally recommended to get there from Lyon. Some establishments offer a shuttle service from the nearest stations. For Annecy and Chambéry, trains from Lyon provide easy access to the city centre, and buses or taxis complete the journey.
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