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Vernoux-en-Vivarais
193 km
Thursday 10 March
Saint-Symphorien-sur-Coise, whose Cycling Grand Prix is one of the highlights of the amateur racing calendar, is welcoming Paris-Nice for the 1st time. The capital of dry sausages will see off the peloton in what is a potentially decisive stage. The terrain will get rough in the Monts du Lyonnais and stay so in Ardèche. The peloton is sure to blow up spectacularly on the climb up the Col de la Mûre, which is making its debut in this race. Its variably steep 8 km long slopes have sections at over 12%. After reaching the summit, riders will still have to negotiate a technical descent and a long false flat before reaching Vernoux-en-Vivarais, home to the tallest bell tower in Ardèche.
Saint-Symphorien-sur-Coise, old fortified city© R. O.
Located in the Monts du Lyonnais, Saint-Symphorien-sur-Coise lies at the heart of the triangle of Lyon, Saint-Etienne and Roanne, which was and still remains a hub of thriving trade and industry.
In particular it is known as the sausage capital of the world, with a weekly production of 700 tonnes. Local craftsmen reproduce the sausages in the same traditional way they have done for many years.
The old walled city dating from medieval times, is dominated by its fifteenth-century collegiate church, and is a real jewel of Gothic art. Built on a rock its classified as a historic monument.
Its also the birth place of Antoine Pinay who became the French Prime Minister in 1952.
With a population of 3500, Saint-Symphorien-sur-Coise is referenced as one of the hundred cities to be found in the most beautiful corners of France.
Tourist Office: www.hautsdulyonnaistourisme.fr
Community Commons: www.monts-du-lyonnais.fr
A view from the village© City of Vernoux en Vivarais
Situated in the Ardeche and the Rhone Alpes, Vernoux en Vivarais is a mountain village with a population of 2000.
Overlooking the Rhone Valley, between Doux and Eyriex, it’s the gateway to the National Park of Monts d’Ardèche covering a region of 180,000 hectors.
With the main economy based around agriculture, the lively village of Vernoux en Vivarais is also a cultural area. And in addition has good sporting facilities, including an indoor pool, providing entertainment throughout the year.
The remains of the Château of La Tourrette still stands today, as well as the Château de Vaussèche, which dates back to the fifteenth century.
With its facilities and activities, Vernoux en Vivarais is looking forward to welcoming Paris-Nice and its visitors.
