Lyon and its surrounding region underwent a significant administrative shift on January 1, 2015, splitting into two distinct entities: the department of Rhône and the Métropole de Lyon. This restructuring aimed to better address the differing needs of rural and urban areas within the region.
Exploring the Rhône: Beyond the City of Lyon
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A region of diverse landscapes, from vineyards to mountains, awaits discovery.
- The Rhône department offers a blend of rural, hilly, and wine-growing landscapes.
- Lyon, at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, boasts a rich history and vibrant cultural scene.
- The Pilat Regional Natural Park provides opportunities for outdoor activities and unique climatic conditions.
- The division of the Rhône department in 2015 created two entities: the rural Rhône (69D) and the urban Métropole de Lyon (69M).
Lyon: A City Steeped in History and Culture
At the meeting point of the Rhône and Saône rivers, Lyon’s history stretches back to Roman times. The ancient capital of Gaul has retained a distinctly “human” feel, blending remarkable architecture – visible in areas like Fourvière and Old Lyon, a UNESCO World Heritage site – with increasing green spaces. Throughout the year, Lyon offers a wealth of cultural and gastronomic experiences, from museum visits to lively festivals.
The Pilat Regional Natural Park: A Climatic Crossroads
One of France’s oldest regional parks, straddling the departments of Loire and Rhône, Pilat complements the Livradois-Forez park. It’s a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking trails and skiing opportunities in the “Haut Pilat Nordic Area.” Pilat’s unique climate is a result of converging continental, Mediterranean, and oceanic influences, creating conditions suitable for both alpine peaks—reaching over 1,400 meters at Crêt de la Perdrix—and vineyards and orchards.
Understanding the Rhône’s Administrative Structure
Prior to 2015, Lyon and its surrounding areas were unified under the Rhône department, designated as number 69. The division on January 1, 2015, created two distinct entities: the department of Rhône (69D), encompassing 208 largely rural municipalities, and the Métropole de Lyon (69M), comprising 59 urban municipalities. This split was designed to address the specific needs of each territory. While the Métropole doesn’t have the full status of a department, the region is often referred to as the “Rhône departmental district,” effectively giving the Lyon area “two departments for the price of one.”
