Overlooking the Loire River, Roanne is a historically important shipping settlement in central France. It was established just below the waterway’s narrow gorges, with the exportation of wine, ceramics and textiles all contributing to the local economy. Following the arrival of the railroads and the opening of a canal in the 1830s, Roanne became a leading town during the French Industrial Revolution.
Things to do in Roanne
In the heart of Roanne is the Joseph-Déchelette Museum, which houses an impressive collection of fine arts and archaeological artefacts within a 19th-century mansion. In addition to ancient earthenware, Italian majolica pottery and 15th-century paintings, the museum also hosts temporary exhibitions of contemporary works.
Want to stretch your legs? Enjoy a stroll along the Bords de Loire, which hugs the west bank of the Loire River. This newly landscaped park occupies the site of a once-derelict market square and is dotted with large-scale artworks and benches for watching the world go by. Continue walking north along the towpath to the Port of Roanne, which is clustered with colourful houseboats.
If you’re visiting in the warmer months, ride the Train Touristique des Belvédères, which chugs its way between Commelle and Magneux. It offers magnificent views of the Lac de Villerest and the Gorges de Loire. Also, don’t miss the Château de La Roche, a 13th-century castle that was largely rebuilt in the 1990s.
Getting around Roanne
Roanne is just over an hour’s drive from Lyon and 1.5 hours from Lyon-Saint Exupery Airport, which has flights to destinations across Europe, North Africa and the Middle East. Regular trains connect to the Roanne railway station and buses travel throughout the commune. The centre of Roanne can easily be explored on foot.