Top 6 things to do in Roanne

Let’s talk a little about our beloved France and focus on one of its best-known towns in the Auvergne Rhône-Alpes region: the town of Roanne. Often, when we say the name of this town, it’s above all the taste of good living that comes to mind. Indeed, Roanne is one of those places where everyone can find a balance between work and family life, where fun and laughter are the order of the day. It’s the kind of place that leads to tranquillity and keeps stress and anxiety at bay. It’s good to get away from negative thoughts and come to a welcoming place to reflect. That’s why, if you’re planning a road trip in the south of France, Roanne is a must. Here’s a list of six things to do in the town.

What to do in Roanne

1. The Tour Saint Maurice

Category: Free/Cultural

Description: When you arrive in Roanne and ask a local “What’s the first thing to see in the region? It’s highly likely that they’ll answer without the slightest hesitation “the Tour Saint Maurice of course”! And yes, located in the pretty, quiet village of Saint Maurice, the mythical tower turns a lot of heads every time. It has to be said, too, that it offers an absolutely remarkable viewpoint, stretching to the horizon like a silver platter. But before you get to the tower, we strongly advise you to take a stroll through the little village, where the people all know each other and where smiling is not an option ^^. You’ll quickly feel at home here and it makes for a lovely walk, preferably in the morning or late afternoon, when the weather is fine.

2. The Joseph Déchelette Museum

Category: €€/Cultural

Description: Every town has its must-sees. The Joseph Déchelette Museum is without doubt one of the most important museums in the Auvergne Rhône-Alpes region. And why is that? This French museum houses an entire artistic collection relating to archaeology, the fine arts, photography, the decorative arts, the visual arts, etc. There’s so much to see, discover and learn, we could go on for hours. A veritable sanctuary, the Joseph Déchelette museum offers activities for families all year round: for example, you can spend some quality time together in a painting workshop and then keep your works of art for yourself, as a souvenir, so that you can display them in your own home and turn your home into a museum of sorts ^^.

3. A bike ride around the Port de Plaisance

Category: €€/Cultural/Sporting

Description: The benefits of cycling can’t be overstated. As well as keeping you in shape, being easy to use and costing less than a car, this sport boosts the immune system, reduces the risk of diabetes and helps you fall asleep. Well, who’d have thought! So imagine cycling in the marina. Where sleeping water brings a feeling of well-being. You’ll be able to enjoy the view while admiring the many colourful boats moored in the harbour. It’s a great way to clear your head, get a breath of fresh air and boost your spirits. After all, if you think about it, that’s what holidays are all about: strolling around, taking a little time for yourself and looking after your mind… So don’t hesitate to pedal on and let the Roanne wind blow you away!

4. The Church of Saint-Etienne

Category: Free/Cultural

Description: Visits to sacred sites are always interesting when you arrive in a new town. We’d like to take you to the church of Saint-Etienne in Roanne. If any of our readers know anything about churches, or more precisely about ancient architecture, you’ll have guessed from the photo above that the monument we’re proposing you visit is inspired by Gothic art. With its flamboyant style, it’s the kind of building that’s impossible to ignore, so much so that its magnetic aura attracts us and arouses in us a certain curiosity that drives us to go through its doors. The building is made of ochre stone and the stained glass windows inside give it a look that is both ancient and modern. Now’s the time to get out your camera and capture this precious moment!

5. Discover the local gastronomy

Category: €€/Gastronomy

Description: Yes, we have to dedicate a section of this article to gastronomy. After all, the choice of town in which to stay is closely linked to its local cuisine. In Roanne, you’ll be able to fill your belly, and at a very reasonable price too! Gastronomy is considered a veritable art of living here, and you’ll find a whole host of restaurants, bars, terraces and stalls ready to welcome you. There’s nothing wrong with being greedy here – in fact, it’s a quality that means you can try absolutely everything. Among the culinary creations to try are the Charolais pavé, pike-perch fillet with Côtes Roannaise, and the brioche creation with pralines. These are real delights that you can taste right from your fingertips, and every spoonful leaves an indelible impression on you.

6. The Church of Saint-Anne

Category: €€/Cultural

Description: There’s no shortage of churches in Roanne. There’s one on every street corner, and one that particularly stands out is the church of Saint-Anne. It’s a beautiful monument, just as imposing as the one mentioned above, but even brighter. Visitors also say that the parishioners are very friendly. Recently restored in the 1960s, it boasts beautiful architecture and was built in 1860. Incidentally, a fun little anecdote for the Lyonnais who read this: the organ that plays here is none other than the one that used to be in Lyon’s Fourvière church. The church of Saint-Anne is a quiet place, where people enjoy coming to meditate.