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Lyon | |
 The Region Around Lyon
To the south of Lyon is the Pilat national park, a haven for hikers, skiers, climbers and orienteers and the playground of the Lyonnais.
Local legend suggests that Mont Pilat was where Pontius Pilate reputedly took his own life in remorse for ordering the crucifixion of Christ. Go to the north of Lyon and you come to the Beaujolais region, known for its beautiful scenery and its wines. The fruity taste of Beaujolais comes from the Gamay grape and the short time between harvest and consumption. This is not a wine to keep but is best drunk young and lightly chilled. The wine has undoubtedly benefited from a marketing hype.
The harvest is in September and the much heralded arrival of the Beaujolais Nouveau each year is always cause for celebration. The gently rolling hills of the Beaujolais are rich in small villages, castles and wineries making it a scenic place to visit by car or by bicycle. One of the least explored wine regions, the Beaujolais is unlikely to disappoint.
Links
The Beaujolais region and wines
A wide-ranging description, in French and English, of the Beaujolais area and its wines.
Vins de la Vallée du Rhône
In French and English, a mine of information for wine fans, including wine routes and a wine search facility to find out about wines from the Rhône.
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