Lyon camping guide
Where to go
Beaujolais
The Saône River curls through the hills north of Lyon into the Beaujolais wine region, known for its light-bodied reds and Chardonnays. Start your wine-tasting trip in the wine capital of Villefranche-sur-Saône, then rent a bike to cycle the Beaujolais Wine Route, visit the region’s picturesque villages, all built out of characteristic golden stone, or park your motorhome at a Hipcamp amid the vines.
French Alps
The French Alps stretch east of Lyon across the borders of Switzerland and Italy, affording plenty of opportunities for mountain activities. Nearby Grenoble is a paradise for hikers, skiers, and winter sports enthusiasts, while lakeside Annecy is perfect for swimming and water sports in summer. Hit the ski slopes with a view of Mont Blanc at Les Arcs or Courchevel, or head north to Lake Geneva and the Swiss Alps.
Rhone Valley
South of Lyon, France’s second-largest wine region flanks the Rhone River in the foothills of the Massif Central. Hop between the wine villages of Côte-Rôtie and Hermitage, continue south to visit the famous Côtes du Rhône vineyards, or explore more than 72,000 hectares of forest and mountain hikes in the Pilat Regional Nature Park.
When to go
Lyon’s mountain backdrop makes it a magnet for adventurers through all four seasons. The ski season in the Alps runs from November through March, while April through October is the best time for a camping holiday, and most campgrounds close outside of this period. The city’s main events, including the Nuits de Fourvière (June through August), Fête des Lumières light festival (December), and Nuits Sonores music festival (May), also draw huge crowds.
