Situated perfectly for a day trip from Geneva or Lyon is the tiny medieval town of Pérouges. Perched on a hilltop, it already has a magical charm from afar. Entering Pérouges through the imposing Upper Gate reveals cobblestone streets, quaint shop signs, and a setting reminiscent of a Disney movie. However, this town is the real deal. Believed to have been founded by Gauls returning from Perugia in Italy, Pérouges is the best preserved medieval village that you can visit. Rather than a stagnant tourist postcard town, Pérouges is a living village with its own distinct art and culture. Although its history saw it almost extinguished several times, with the villagers bravely fighting off the Archbishop of Lyon’s troops and rebuilding after the almost total exodus of its inhabitants, Pérouges has become the secret getaway for savvy travellers and is considered one of the Most Beautiful Villages in France.
The entire village is enveloped by a fully intact city wall. The houses form part of the fortification with the wall only interrupted by the two main entrances to this beautiful village. There is much to see and discover within the village and surrounding countryside. Meandering through Pérouges reveals twisting alleys dotted with small local shops such as the Paperterie artisanale. Choose from a number of restaurants from which to sample local delicacies before diving into the heart of the village with a visit to the Pérouges museum.
What to see and do during the day
Visit
The Musée du Vieux is worth a visit to capture the spirit of this village. The museum is located in the building that belonged to the Princes of Savoy. It contains a wealth of information on the village’s history from the early settlers to its modern revival. Do not miss the trip up to the tower. From the tower, you have a 360° view over the village and a vantage point far into the distance to the Jura and the outskirts of Lyon.
Eat
An essential component to any visit to Pérouges a taste of the Galette de Pérouges. The Galette is a sugary tart created by Marie-Louise Thibaut and has become the culinary stamp of Pérouges. Decadent French butter and sugar are caramelized on a brioche dough, resulting in an irresistible tart that can be purchased from small windows around the village for around 1.20 euro a slice. A variant of this sugar tart adds berry syrup for an extra tangy sweet treat.
Wander
Escape the city walls and work off some of the French food by going for a walk. Surrounding the village are walks that encircle Pérouges, weaving their way through the countryside. Colour coded by their respective distances, the routes offer an opportunity for all abilities to take an idyllic stroll around the village. Several points are highlighted along the routes with photo opportunities and views of Pérouges and the surrounding region from afar. Beware the route signposts can be confusing, take a photo of the map posted at the start of the walk to avoid getting lost.
On the way from Meximieux to Pérouges, lies a charming lake where the locals fish and picnic on the shore. Further afield on the neighbouring hill, there is also an abandoned chateau that is ripe for exploration.
Drink
Enjoy a refreshing drink on the terrace of the Le Venuer Noirith. Located just outside the walls, the terrace offers a charming refuge from the cobblestone streets. Relax on the terrace and sip a sparkling glass of local Cerdon or Montagnieu. Alternatively, treat yourself to ice cream or a meal from one of the extensive list of local delicacies on the menu.
Where to stay on your trip
Although many visit on a day trip from Lyon or Geneva, it is worth staying overnight to experience this village in all its medieval glory.
For the smaller budget: The Resid For Calixte
The Resid For Calixte is the best option in both price and quality. Just outside the village walls with parking, it is conveniently located and is only a 2-minute walk into the centre of Pérouges. The bed and breakfast is a charming option for frugal guests, with five rooms distributed around a renovated farmhouse stable. Watch out for the resident kittens that play in the courtyard. Rooms start from 85 euro a night, including a generous breakfast with local bread, jam, and fresh juice and coffee.
For the comfortable budget: Hostellerie Du Vieux Pérouges
The Hostellerie du Vieux is considered among the oldest in France. This inn fully immerses guests in the medieval setting of Pérouges. Situated in the heart of the village, the Hostellerie embodies the spirit of the village with its themed rooms and costumed staff. The restaurant is a popular option for lunch and dinner among both guests and other visitors to the town, so consider making a reservation. A room for two is available from 136 euro per night.
How to travel there
Day trip from Lyon
Located just 40 km by car from Lyon, Pérouges is an ideal location for a day trip from Lyon. By rail, the village is just 30 minutes from Lyon to the station of Meximieux-Pérouges. From the station, it is an invigorating, albeit charming, 20-minute walk up to the village.
Day trip from Geneva
For travellers from Switzerland, Pérouges offers a delightful alternative day trip from the popular Genevois excursion to Annecy. By rail, the village can be accessed from Geneva with a direct train to Meximieux in under 2 hours. A more comfortable option is by car, with a quick 90-minute drive to the town.
1 Comment