Single in the Drôme? From the lovers’ bandstand to the lavender fields

Valence, the town of lovers

In Valence, the Peynet bandstand on the Champ de Mars is a symbol: the illustrator Raymond Peynet is said to have imagined his famous lovers there. Meeting at this spot, with its view over the Ardèche and Crussol Castle, is an ideal romantic touch. The old centre, its shady squares and Saint-Apollinaire Cathedral can then be explored on foot, before tasting a suisse, the local biscuit.

A postman’s dream and France’s tallest keep

In the north, in Hauterives, Facteur Cheval’s Ideal Palace is unique in the world: a postman built it over thirty-three years with stones collected on his rounds. A fine lesson in perseverance to ponder together! In the Drôme valley, Crest Tower, described as the tallest keep in France, offers a spectacular panorama from the top.

The sweetness of Provençal Drôme

Further south, Montélimar delights the sweet-toothed with its nougat, while Grignan Castle, a great Renaissance château of south-eastern France, overlooks the lavender fields. In Nyons, olives and olive oil already speak of Provence. On the mountain side, the Vercors awaits hikers. On Lyad, members from the Drôme share their favourite markets and villages; it is up to you to find someone to discover them with.