UNESCO, France

The facts, some tips and a whole lot of opinion!

Previously visited UNESCO sites, France; Belfries of Belgium and France, Mont-Saint Michel, Nice, Paris Banks of the Seine & City of Strasbourg.

Lyon

The facts; Lyon, a city with over 2,000 years of history, boasts four distinctive districts that together earned UNESCO World Heritage status in 1998. These areas—Fourvière, Vieux Lyon, Presqu’île, and Croix-Rousse—each hold a distinct chapter of Lyon’s past.

Fourvière – This hilltop district was the site of a Roman colony founded in 43 BC. Visitors can explore, at no cost, the well-preserved ancient theater, the Odeon, and the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, which offers stunning panoramic views of the city.

Vieux Lyon – One of the largest Renaissance quarters in Europe, Vieux Lyon is a labyrinth of narrow streets, colorful facades, and hidden traboules (covered passageways) once used by merchants and silk workers.

Presqu’île – Grand boulevards on the bustling peninsula between the Rhône and Saône rivers with opulent 19th-century architecture, and iconic squares such as Place Bellecour and Place des Terreaux.

Croix-Rousse – Previously the hub of Lyon’s silk industry, Croix-Rousse retains its distinct identity as the hill that works. Steep streets and high-ceilinged buildings, designed for canuts (silk workers) and their looms, tell the story of the city’s rich textile heritage.

The tips; Catch the funicular up to the Roman ruins, for just €3.50 its worth saving your legs.
Look for the poignant WW2 monument near the train station.

The opinion; Lyon city is a nice city to stroll around, though keep in mind, once you leave the town center it gets less mobility friendly with lots of stairs and steep streets. Get to the Roman amphitheater early as it is popular, especially with school groups.

Bacon's rating of interest; ⭐⭐⭐/5

Bacon's rating of interest; ⭐⭐⭐⭐/5

The facts; inscribed in 1983 as France's first natural UNESCO site for both geological and ecological values under natural criterion. The site extends along a spectacular stretch of rocky coastline encompassing two magnificent bays, the Gulf of Porto and Gulf of Girolata, between the Scandola peninsula and the rock towers of the Calanche of Piana. The coastline is a breathtaking drive of jagged red cliffs, craggy headlands, sheltered sand beaches, rock stacks, grottos, islets and coves. The world heritage site is part of the larger Corsica Regional Natural Park, and includes the small, strictly protected Scandola Reserve.

The tips; Drive this beautiful area from the top of the island to the bottom or in reverse. Allow time to stop and admire the views and try the lessor roads for less traffic where possible.

The opinion; We hired a car from Bonifacio and stopped in Porto Ota. The red rock mountain peaks are nothing short of spectacular and the quaint French towns are lovely. The following day the drive took us through the national park and the crystal clear mountain waterfalls, streams and forest walks. The island is not busy for June, so take your time.

Gulf of Porto: Calanche of Piana, Gulf of Girolata, Scandola Reserve, Corsica, France

The facts; reborn from the ashes of World War II, Le Havre gained UNESCO World Heritage recognition in 2005 for its post-war reconstruction. Standing on the Normandy coast, the city was redesigned by architect Auguste Perret, after suffering extensive damage by allied bombings. Reconstructions highlights include the striking Saint-Joseph Church, with its towering lantern spire, and the expansive Place de l’Hôtel de Ville.

The tips; Visit Le Havre as a short day trip on the train from Rouen.

The opinion; An uninspiring concrete city with the church being the most exciting highlight, though the history can be appreciated for its existence.