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Capital of the Drôme
Valence is the capital town of the Drôme department which is located in the south-east of France, in the southern Rhône-Alpes region. This ancient town refers to itself as the Gateway to Provence, and indeed this is a claim that one would not dispute, as it does indeed lie just to the north of Provence and has a distinctly Provençal ambience. As well as easy access to Provence, however, Valence also provides a great base for accessing the spectacular gorges of the Ardêche, or indeed, the dramatic peaks of the Alps, just a short way to the north-east.
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Ancient streets and buildings
Valence is no stranger to antiquity, being a reputed 2,000 years old and counting. As you wander around the old town, taking in the quaint narrow side streets known locally as “cotes”, you will see a number of fabulous old buildings. One such building which really stands out is the slightly macabre but visually fascinating Maison des Têtes, decorated with carved Gothic heads, some of which are said to represent the ancient Greeks, and others depict more abstract concepts of air, fire and anger. While you are looking at buildings you should take a look at the imposing Cathèdral Apollinaire which was badly damaged during the devastating Wars of Religion but which has since been painstakingly restored.
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Things to see and do...
Like any large, ancient city, Valence offers a host of things to see and do within its limits, and even more just outside. Ladies and fashion addicts will love the massive shoe museum, which houses a collection that encompasses ancient designs right up to modern day specimens.
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Shops, bars and restaurants galore
There are shops and bars galore, and when it comes to dining out there is a vast choice of restaurants offering both French and international cuisines. If you are set on “posh nosh”, the place to head for is the Restaurant Pic, but if its a great buzz you're after (as well, of course, as great food) , then get yourself along to L'Epicerie, where there is contemporary art work on the walls and jazz music playing to create an ambience you won’t forget.
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Festivals and sports
Valence hosts a great number of festivals and cultural events throughout the year, and you can take your pick according to where your interests lie. There is a wonderful flower and gardening festival in October, a music festival in July and a festival of Motocross racing in February...Valence is truly a town for all seasons! With regard to sporting activities, it almost goes without saying that nearly anything you can name is accessible. Motor sports are popular, and you can enjoy go-karting as well as motorcycling. Athletics, football, rugby and tennis are also readily available in the town.
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How to get there
To get to Valence you can choose to fly or to take the train. Airports nearby include those of St Etienne, Marseille, Montpellier and Nîmes. St Etienne and Nîmes are served by Ryanair; Montpellier by British Airways, GB Airways and Ryanair; and Marseille by British Airways, easyJet, Ryanair and Aer Lingus. Although, as the town has its very own new TGV station, train travel may perhaps be the best choice.
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Property prices and availability in and around Valence
The Drôme is not a cheap area for property, and Valence is no exception to this rule. The good news, however, is that if you do decide to invest in property here, you will find it should hold its price well, and also potentially provide a good rental income should you wish to rent the property out.
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HOTELS IN VALENCE
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3/5