Escape Paris, Visit Lyon The Gastronomic Capital Of France

Lyon is well known as the lovely city has been called the gastronomic capital of France. Note that Lyon is home to more than 4000 restaurants. From ancient “bouchons” where you will eat rich specialties like Quenelles de Brochet or Cervelles de Canut (cheese specialty from Lyon) to gastronomic restaurants and food markets, you will have plenty of choice to experience a new cuisine and satisfy your appetite. Located between Paris and South Of France, Lyon is a crossroads city at the confluence of two rivers: the Saône and the Rhône. Its position makes this city magical thanks to a rich history dating back to the Roman Period. Looking back at history, Emperor Julius Caesar first created “Lugdunum” in 43 BC.

In 27 BC, Lugdunum became the capital of the Gauls. The city is already at a crossroads between imperial routes between the Rhine and Italy.The City of Lyon enjoys a very rich period of prosperity and is an important economic and intellectual center. After a turbulent Middle Ages period, in the 15th century, Lyon knows a renewal with the development of multiple commercial fairs. Through the influence of Italy and Kings of France Francois I and Henri IV, the silk production boomed  from the 16th to the 18th century. The best way to admire and visit Lyon is by walking. Through the Old Lyon and Croix Rousse neighborhood, you will see multitude of traboules-secret and covered passageways- that were used by the silk traders as a shortcut across town. 

Do not miss the jewel of the city Basilica of Notre Dame de Fourviere. The majestic basilica devoted to Mary was built in the end of the 19th century. Tie your sneakers and ride the funicular up or climb the 228 steps to admire this pure beauty. From there, the views over the city which counts more than 500 000 inhabitants is spectacular. On the way back, pass through the ruins of ancient Lugdunum and its amphitheater. 

To be completely immersed in the Old Lyon neighborhood-pedestrian only-stay at the stunning Cour Des Loges. In the middle of an old cobbled street, Rue du Boeuf, the 5 star hotel hotel looks like a castle. The decor takes you back to Italian Renaissance. Part of Unesco heritage, the hotel is composed of four houses dating back to the  Renaissance. A true historic haven with modern confort. Each stone seems to be impregnated with history. Part of the family Sibuet group which includes les Fermes de Marie in Megeve and St Barths, the five star hotel is beautifully decorated. The atmosphere is very refined. The breakfast buffet is a pure delight. Exquisite croissants and so many kinds of bread all better than  the others and every morning  new eggs “du jour”: fried, poached, soft boiled prepared by the Chef. Excellent. The hotel counts 1 star Michelin restaurant Les loges, a cute bistro and bar and cigar room. Add a spa, a swimming pool and a small corner of pure beauty: the hanging garden. Above the rooftops of the city from the terrace admire the authentic view of Lyon. Magical.