Saint-Paul-Lès-Romans stretches along both sides of the Joyeuse River. There are several ways to make the most of a stay: take a cycling tour through the town, explore walking and hiking trails, visit historic buildings and attend cultural events. The Corso is held annually in April; for other activities, it is worth checking the specific dates before your trip.
Cycling routes and trails from Saint-Paul-Lès-Romans
The 28-kilometre family cycling tour Entre Joyeuse et Collines passes through the countryside and hills north of Romans. About one kilometre after the hamlet of Buissières, it leaves the V63, passes through Saint-Paul-Lès-Romans and then continues to Châtillon-Saint-Jean. This gives the route a defined overall distance and takes it through the town. Check the current route before setting off, as route details can change.
You can also go cycling from Saint-Paul-Lès-Romans along the Véloroute Voie Verte. The Collines and the Vercors are options for walks and hikes from the town. Chemin des Trois-Croix is a named local trail. So, alongside broader opportunities for hiking and walking, there is a signposted cycling tour and a specific trail name.
History between pilgrims and antiquity
The private buildings of the Commandery of the Knights of Malta are in the town centre. They were acquired in 1231 to accommodate pilgrims travelling to the Holy Land. The Commandery was burned down during the Wars of Religion and restored in 1614. The building is flanked by four corner towers; remnants of frescoes are visible beneath the staircase. Its history therefore links a specific former purpose with its subsequent restoration after its destruction.
Another glimpse into history comes from the ancient Villa des Mingauds. A dedicated section at the Musée de Valence is devoted to it; the villa is associated with Saint-Paul-Lès-Romans. The exhibition includes the mosaic of the Labours of Hercules, which is listed as a historic monument. The Commandery recalls the medieval accommodation for pilgrims, while the mosaic evokes the ancient Villa des Mingauds and the Labours of Hercules.
Events and cultural venues
The Corso takes place every year over two days on the last weekend of April. There is a fireworks display on Saturday evening. If you are planning your trip around the festival, check the specific programme in advance.
In the former Saint-Paul-Lès-Romans railway station, La Petite Gare – La Locomotiv’ manages and runs a cultural venue. Events held there include concerts, theatre performances and exhibitions, as well as activities for Heritage Days and as part of the artists’ trail. For specific dates, check the current programme.
La Ferme des Essarts also provides space for courses, training sessions and artistic events. The activities on offer and participation requirements may vary from one event to another. If a particular date is central to your stay, check the details in advance.
Agriculture and walnut products
Domaine de Nustrale opens its doors so visitors can learn about agricultural activities involving free-range farm chickens. Check the current visiting arrangements in advance.
Rien que des Noix produces Grenoble walnuts, as well as natural or flavoured walnut kernels, walnut oil and walnut powder. Alongside culture and outdoor activities, visitors can also explore local farming and a varied range of walnut products.
Discover more destinations: Les Granges-Gontardes, Pierrelongue, Marsaz, Beauvallon, Savasse, Espeluche, Roynac, Portes-En-Valdaine.
For the broader travel overview: Drôme.
