Unveiling La Tour de Coron Belley: France's Hidden Gem You NEED to See!
Unveiling La Tour de Coron Belley: France's Hidden Gem You NEED to See!
Unveiling La Tour de Coron Belley: France's Hidden Gem (Or, My Love/Hate Affair with a French Castle)
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because I'm about to spill the (very expensive) beans on La Tour de Coron Belley. It wasn't all croissants and sunshine, I'll be honest. But, for better or worse, it was an EXPERIENCE. And that, folks, is what we're paying for these days, right? An experience.
First Impressions are…Complicated. (Accessibility & Getting There)
Finding this "hidden gem" was more like a treasure hunt orchestrated by a very eccentric pirate. Belley itself is adorable – picture-postcard French countryside, all rolling hills and charming cobblestone streets. Gorgeous. But La Tour de Coron? Finding the darn thing involved a GPS that seemed to have a vendetta against me, a near-miss with a rogue farmer (who, bless him, waved me on), and a prayer to the travel gods. It's nestled away alright!
Accessibility: A Mixed Bag.
Let's get the practical stuff out of the way. Finding info before hand? A bit of a struggle. The official website claims accessibility, and while there is an elevator (Hallelujah!), maneuvering in certain areas, particularly the older parts of the castle, would be a challenge for anyone with mobility issues. On-site facilities for disabled guests are listed, which is a promising start, but a good phone call beforehand is essential to nail down the details. And bring a sturdy cane or walker, as the cobblestones in the courtyard seem engineered to trip the unwary.
Getting there? The hotel offers airport transfer (THANK GOD) and a free on-site car park (yes! finally a break!). However, navigating the roads is its own adventure; I recommend taking advantage of the transport if you can, because between us, I almost drove into a ditch trying to park the first time.
Inside the Fortress: Rooms, Rest, and Relaxation (or Lack Thereof)
Now, the rooms. Available in all rooms: Additional toilet, Air conditioning, Alarm clock, Bathrobes, Bathroom phone, Bathtub, Blackout curtains, Carpeting, Closet, Coffee/tea maker, Complimentary tea, Daily housekeeping, Desk, Extra long bed, Free bottled water, Hair dryer, High floor, In-room safe box, Interconnecting room(s) available, Internet access – LAN, Internet access – wireless, Ironing facilities, Laptop workspace, Linens, Mini bar, Mirror, Non-smoking, On-demand movies, Private bathroom, Reading light, Refrigerator, Safety/security feature, Satellite/cable channels, Scale, Seating area, Separate shower/bathtub, Shower, Slippers, Smoke detector, Socket near the bed, Sofa, Soundproofing, Telephone, Toiletries, Towels, Umbrella, Visual alarm, Wake-up service, Wi-Fi [free], Window that opens. All this at least..
My room (a supposed "suite") was…well, let's say it had character. Old-world charm that sometimes bordered on "slightly haunted." The blackout curtains were a godsend, because the French sun, as it turns out, doesn't screw around. The bed was heavenly; the extra long bed was a definite plus, for my very tall travel companion.
And the Free Wi-Fi? Praise be! This modern necessity was a total savior, especially because… Internet [LAN] was also an option! (though, honestly, I’m not sure who still uses LAN these days.) The bathroom was spacious and included an actual bathtub, which was a serious win after a day of adventuring. But the soundproofing? Seriously lacking. I heard everything - the clanging of the kitchen, the late-night giggles of some drunk travelers, and the mournful cries of… something. Possibly a ghost.
But the best part of stay? The bathtub bathtub bathtub and after a walk of like 30 minutes the hotel provided a Spa/Sauna, which was absolutely amazing!.
The Spa/Sauna: My Personal Heaven (and Hell)
Okay, the spa. This is where La Tour de Coron redeemed itself, at least a little bit. Spa/sauna Steamroom, Sauna, Spa.
I spent a solid three hours in there. The steam room was amazing, and the sauna was an elegant experience. The Body scrub and Body wrap options were available - I took advantage, obviously. They really take it seriously here, which I deeply appreciated. The Pool with view (indoors), was a sight to behold. It has a window that opens, which is a small detail, sure, but a perfect end touch.
Dining & Drinking: A Culinary Rollercoaster
Let’s talk about FOOD. Dining, drinking, and snacking, A la carte in restaurant, Alternative meal arrangement, Asian breakfast, Asian cuisine in restaurant, Bar, Bottle of water, Breakfast [buffet], Breakfast service, Buffet in restaurant, Coffee/tea in restaurant, Coffee shop, Desserts in restaurant, Happy hour, International cuisine in restaurant, Poolside bar, Restaurants, Room service [24-hour], Salad in restaurant, Snack bar, Soup in restaurant, Vegetarian restaurant, Western breakfast, Western cuisine in restaurant.
Breakfast was included, thankfully. Breakfast [buffet] and Breakfast service were available. This was your basic continental breakfast, though, with an emphasis on pastries (always a plus!). The coffee/tea in restaurant, coffee shop, and all the western breakfast selections with an assortment of cakes and dessert were all so pretty. No complaints there. Though, note: the buffet felt a bit…touchy-feely post-pandemic. Food was individually-wrapped food options, and everything was very well-maintained, but it was still weird. Safe dining setup, Sanitized kitchen and tableware items.
I took advantage of the Room service [24-hour] a few times, and that was a godsend. They always bring a bottle of water. The bar was also decent, and the happy hour was actually pretty happy. The other restaurants were pretty standard, offering International cuisine in restaurant with Asian Cuisine (which I found incredibly odd). The salad in restaurant and soup in restaurant were delicious. And the desserts in restaurant, offering a sweet ending were divine. But the prices… oh the prices. Prepare to embrace your inner pauper. The Poolside bar was a nice option to enjoy the view.
Safety and Cleanliness: Keeping It (Relatively) Clean
Given the current climate, the hotel's commitment to Cleanliness and safety was reassuring. They actually seemed to care, with Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas and Professional-grade sanitizing services in effect. The staff were incredibly trained in staff trained in safety protocol and rooms sanitized between stays, which put my mind at ease. Plenty of Hand sanitizer everywhere. Cashless payment service was available. It wasn't all perfect - a few things were missed, and I'm pretty sure I saw the same stain on the carpet for three days running, but overall, I felt relatively safe.
Services and Conveniences: Where Things Get Interesting
La Tour de Coron offers a host of Services and conveniences. The Concierge was fantastic and incredibly helpful. The Laundry service and Dry cleaning options were appreciated. Air conditioning in public area was a must, and the elevator was a godsend. Facilities for disabled guests are listed. But honestly, some things felt a little… random. A Shrine? Indoor venue for special events? Meetings/banquet facilities? Look, I'm not judging, but it all felt a bit…over the top.
Things to Do (Besides Questioning Your Sanity)
This is more about the area than the hotel itself to be honest. Belley is a gateway to the Savoie region. Things to do, ways to relax are really the focal point. The Fitness center, Gym/fitness are available, but I'd highly recommend exploring the surrounding areas: Hiking in the hills, visiting nearby vineyards, etc.
Now, for the Sales Pitch (Because I Know You're Curious)
ARE YOU DREAMING OF ESCAPE? NEED A BREAK FROM THE MUNDANE?
La Tour de Coron Belley is calling your name! Forget those cookie-cutter resorts! This is an opportunity to immerse yourself in a truly unique experience, amidst the breathtaking beauty of the French countryside.
Here’s what makes La Tour de Coron a MUST-SEE:
- Unforgettable Spa Experience: The Spa/Sauna is pure bliss for any traveler. Feel your stress just melt away with a massage, body wrap, and a moment in the sauna.
- Romantic Getaway: The Couple's room and Proposal spot create the perfect atmosphere. Cozy rooms, the incredible view, and the romantic atmosphere create a perfect environment for true romance.
- Historical Charm & Modern Comfort: Experience the magic of old-world Europe without sacrificing modern conveniences.
Here's your limited-time offer!
- 20% off your stay when you book a minimum of 3 nights.
- Free upgrade to a room with a balcony (
Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because my "itinerary" for La Tour de Coron, Belley, France is less a meticulously planned spreadsheet and more a chaotic, joyful gallop through the Ardèche. Consider this less a travel guide and more a drunken postcard home, scribbled after too much Beaujolais.
Day 1: Arrival & The Accidental Picnic (Plus, OMG, Those Cobblestones!)
- Morning (or, let's be honest, Mid-Afternoon): Arrive in Belley. Air France, bless their slightly-delayed hearts, finally deposited me (and my absurdly oversized suitcase) at Lyon-Saint Exupéry. Train to Belley was… well, it happened. The station is charming, like a movie set. The first thing I notice? Cobblestones. Everywhere! They’re beautiful, but OH MY GOD, my ankles are screaming already. I feel like I’m auditioning for a medieval dance troupe.
- The Place, the Pastry, the Panic: Finding my gîte (charming, dusty, and with a key that fought me relentlessly) took longer than expected. A wrong turn led me face-to-face with a ridiculously gorgeous square, Place des Terreaux. The scent of fresh bread from a nearby boulangerie was too much to resist. Bought a pain au chocolat… and promptly dropped half of it on the cobblestones. Dignity? Gone. Chocolate-covered cobblestones? Delicious (mostly).
- Accidental Picnic, Actual Joy: Decided to salvage the day and, inspired by my chocolate-coated floor food, went to a small grocery store (supermarkets in France, the best). Grabbed some cheese (the stinky kind, naturally), some olives, a baguette, and a bottle of… well, a bottle of something red and cheap. Found a bench overlooking, and just sat there. Watching the world go by. And realizing, hey, this is precisely what I needed. The perfect accident.
Day 2: The Coron Tower & A Near-Death Experience (Okay, Maybe Exaggerating)
- The Climb: Okay, so everyone says you have to climb the Tour de Coron. Fine. I'm not one to argue with history (or, you know, travel guides). The climb is… long. The steps are narrow, the spiral is dizzying. I swear, I saw my life flash before my eyes (mostly embarrassing memories from high school). But the view from the top? HOLY MOLY. Unbelievable. The red rooftops, the rolling hills, the way the sun just kissed the little town… I stood there feeling ridiculously tiny and incredibly grateful. I nearly wept.
- Lunch with a View (Mostly on my Shirt): Found a tiny restaurant with a terrace. Ordered the regional special, a rather large salad with (I think) goat cheese and some kind of cured meat. Tried to maintain some elegance while eating (a losing battle). Managed to spill half of it down the front of my shirt while laughing at a particularly droll French couple next to me. More wine required.
- The "Oh, Those Stairs Again" Factor: Back down the steps! A second descent after the first, and my legs just wanted to scream. The thought of all those cobblestones outside the building. This is going to be a workout, and I'm not even planning it.
- Bonus Rant: The French seem to have a delightful habit of "disappearing" whenever you need service. Flagging down a waiter is a sport in itself. It took twenty minutes to get the bill. Twenty minutes!
Day 3: A Detour to a Waterfall (Because Why Not?) & the Cheese Shop Incident
- The Waterfall Faff: Woke up feeling like I'd run a marathon. Decided I needed something… Zen-ish. Heard there was a waterfall nearby. Found the waterfall. Got lost on the way to the waterfall. Tripped over a tree root on the way back from the waterfall. The waterfall was pretty though. Pretty worth it.
- The Cheese Shop Catastrophe: You cannot go to France and not visit a cheese shop. I entered a shop filled with everything. Everything. The smell alone was a religious experience. I asked the shopkeeper for a recommendation. He suggested something creamy and… intense. Bought it (along with three other things – I'm a sucker for a good cheese). Ate some later. It was SO strong. I think I still have a hint of it in my lungs. It was a cheese that tasted like the essence of France.
- The Evening Stroll & Existential Musings: Ended the day with another walk (yes, cobblestones again!). The golden hour made everything beautiful. Sat on a bench and stared at the Rhône. Concluded that life is beautiful, cheese is delicious, and my legs are utterly wrecked. This is the life.
Day 4: Good-Bye, Belley (and a Farewell to My Knees)
- The Last Breakfast Panic: One last pain au chocolat (duh). One last attempt to navigate the cobblestones gracefully. Contemplated buying a second suitcase to cart back all the cheese. Decided against it (because, well, the suitcase I have now is already enormous).
- The Train of Farewell: The train back to Lyon. Looking back on Belley, I smiled. It wasn’t perfect – it was full of cobblestones, and I spilled food on myself more than once, and the locals like to talk loudly. But it was real. It was chaotic. It was beautiful. It was France. And, you know what? Despite the ache in my ankles, I’d go back in a heartbeat.
Postscript (aka, the "Things I Learned"):
- Cobblestones are deceptive. They look romantic, but they are a torture device for your feet. Invest in supportive shoes.
- Cheese (especially the stinky kind) requires preparation. Air freshener and a strong stomach are essential.
- French people might seem aloof, but they are secretly amazing. Learn a few phrases (even badly), and you'll be rewarded. And, they make great wine.
- Don't be afraid to get lost. It's how you find the best adventures.
- Go to Belley. Just, maybe, bring some comfy shoes. And a bottle of something red. You'll never regret it.
La Tour de Coron Belley: You Know, THAT Hidden Gem (Maybe?) - An FAQ, Because I'm Confused Too!
Okay, so, what *IS* La Tour de Coron Belley, anyway? Like, is it… a castle? A restaurant? A VERY confusing historical marker?
Alright, buckle up, because even *I'm* not entirely sure. It's basically the remains of a medieval tower – a really, REALLY old tower. It's in Belley, a teeny-tiny town in the Ain department of France. Imagine charming, cobblestone streets and… well, the tower! They call it "La Tour de Coron" which sounds super dramatic, don't you think? I’m pretty sure it's not a castle, not a restaurant (thankfully!), and... well, it's a historical marker, yes, but there's SO much more! Think of it as the skeletal remains of some serious history, sitting pretty.
Is it worth the trek? Because, let's be honest, "hidden gem" usually means "a whole lot of driving for disappointment."
Oof, that’s the million-dollar question, isn’t it? Look, the drive *can* be a bit… ahem… *intimate* on those winding French roads (especially if you’re me and get carsick easily). But the area? Absolutely stunning! Rolling hills, vineyards as far as the eye can see… it’s postcard perfect. And the tower itself? Well… it's atmospheric, shall we say? It's NOT the Eiffel Tower, okay? Manage your expectations. But if you like history, crumbling stone, and a sense of quiet contemplation... yes, absolutely. Bonus points if you like REALLY good wine which, hello, you're in the Bugey region! But please, don't expect a Disney experience. It's more contemplative than thrilling.
What exactly *can* you DO there? Like, can I climb it? Are there secret passages? Do they sell tiny medieval swords? (Asking for a friend…)
Okay, the tiny medieval swords? Probably not. (Shattered dreams, I know.) Climbing it? Well, that depends. Some parts might be open, some might be closed off. I'm pretty sure there aren't any secret passages, though I spent a solid fifteen minutes peering into every nook and cranny, just in case. It’s mostly about admiring the architecture, the view (if you can get up high enough – it's a bit of a free-for-all, safety-wise!), and soaking in the atmosphere. Think: taking photos, daydreaming about knights, and maybe having a picnic (bring your own tiny medieval snacks, though). You could also just... stare at it. I did that for a while. It's surprisingly satisfying. Staring at old things is underrated, you know?
Food and Drink? Are we doomed to stale baguettes and lukewarm water? (Please say no.)
HA! No, no, NO! Belley and the surrounding area are a *culinary dream*. Seriously. The region is renowned for its Bugey wine – which, honestly, is a revelation. I'm currently obsessed and have added 5 bottles to my cart after finishing writing this. Honestly, go to Belley just for the wine. Find a local bistro! There are plenty, and they’re usually fabulously French and offer a taste of the region. They'll have plats du jour (daily specials), fresh cheeses, and...oh, the pastries! I probably gained a kilo just *thinking* about them. Seriously. Do not skip the cheese. Or the wine. Or the pastries. You'll regret it. I promise you!
Tell me about the view! Is it Instagram-worthy? (Judging you.)
Okay, look, I'm not going to judge, we *all* want the perfect Instagram shot. The view from *around* the tower? Absolutely Instagram-worthy. Think: rolling hills, vineyards stretching to the horizon, a smattering of charming French villages... it's just gorgeous. From *the tower itself*? Depends on how high you can climb, the state of the stairs (or lack thereof), and whether you're prone to vertigo. I'm gonna be honest, I wasn't brave enough to go all the way up. But from what I saw, the glimpses were magnificent. So, yes, but with a little bit of effort (and maybe a lot of careful footwork!). I got some *great* shots. I might have cried happy tears… don't tell anyone.
What's the vibe like? Tourist trap or utterly deserted? (Praying for deserted, to be honest.)
Praise the heavens, definitely NOT a tourist trap! It's… peaceful. You're more likely to encounter locals chatting over coffee than hordes of selfie-stick wielding tourists. I got a lovely chat from a sweet old lady who told me all about the history. It isn't a 'must-see' stop on any of the big tour companies. You’re more likely to find yourself in quiet contemplation, maybe with a local artist sketching the scene or an elderly couple holding hands while meandering through the streets. It’s a place to actually *experience* the place, not just to get a quick photo and run. Absolute bliss.
Okay, back to the tower. Any unexpected challenges or quirks? Did you, you know, almost die?
Almost die? Let's just say my sense of adventure occasionally outstrips my common sense. There were some uneven steps, some dodgy railings (which, admittedly, *were* probably medieval), and a general sense of "this thing has been standing here for centuries and isn't particularly fussed about your well-being." Let's just say I moved slowly and clung to walls. There was THIS ONE spot with a broken step, and I definitely wobbled a little. Okay, a lot. I probably shouldn't have been wearing those shoes. Lesson learned: good footwear is essential! The view? Worth it. The near-death experience? Maybe not *entirely* worth it. But it makes for a good story, right?
Any advice for visiting? Like, what should I bring? What should I NOT do?
Bring: Comfortable shoes (see above), a camera, some snacks (just in case), water, a sense of adventure, and maybe a basic knowledge of French (or at least a translation app). A picnic blanket is a GREAT idea. A good book. Definitely bring your credit card AND a pen. Oh, and a healthy respect for history. Do NOT: Wear heels (unless you enjoy a challenge), be in a huge hurry, be loud and obnoxious, or expect everything to be perfectly manicured. This isn't Disneyland, folks. This is the REAL France. It has charm, it has history, and it might have a few wobbly steps. Embrace it!
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