The Rhône, the history of river shipping and the wine-growing slopes give Seyssel several distinct sides. Along the river, cultural attractions sit alongside canoe and kayak trips; wine tastings and a route from the town centre up to higher parts of the town offer different highlights. When planning your stay, you can first decide whether you are mainly interested in heritage, wine, river activities or hiking. These priorities can also help you tailor your search for a hotel in Seyssel to the experiences you have planned.
Shipping History and Culture
The Maison du Haut-Rhône is an exhibition space on the banks of the Rhône. It provides information about the history of the first port on the Rhône and the transport of goods by water. A screening room also presents the story of the construction of the Génissiat Dam. Check current access information and the programme before visiting.
The Seyssel suspension bridge was built between 1838 and 1840. A statue of the Virgin Mary, regarded as the patron saint of boatmen, stands on its central pier. Seyssel church is also associated with the 14th century; boatmen used to greet it as they passed, calling it the “Vierge du Bon Départ”.
Le Pont des Z'Arts is an artists’ association gallery that hosts year-round exhibitions of paintings and sculptures by French and international artists. As the exhibition programme may change, check the current dates in advance. The exhibitions complement the historical themes with painting and sculpture.
Enjoy the Rhône and Nature Actively
The “Canoë kayak Rhône” activity offers canoe and kayak trips on the Rhône departing from the Base Aqualoisirs de Seyssel. The route passes through the Natura 2000 protected area of the Malourdie Islands. Access to the Base Aqualoisirs itself is completely free of charge.
The wooden boat “Le Seyssel” offers a different perspective on the river: it is 13 metres long, can accommodate up to 12 passengers and is moored at Port Gallatin in Seyssel, Haute-Savoie. The boat is used to introduce visitors to the history of shipping in Seyssel and the natural riches of the Haut-Rhône. If you are considering a trip, check the current operating programme.
Winegrowing on the Slopes
The Seyssel wine-growing area lies mainly on sometimes steep slopes above the Rhône, especially in the commune of Corbonod. To a lesser extent, it also includes the two communes named Seyssel, which are separated by the river: one is in Ain, the other in Haute-Savoie. The Caves de Seyssel welcomes visitors to its chai for tastings of still and sparkling wines from the Seyssel AOC. The tasting therefore focuses on two distinct types of wine from the same AOC.
Plan Your Routes and Travel
The “Trois empreintes pour un même paysage” hiking trail starts in the centre of Seyssel and climbs to the higher parts of the town. Unlike the water activity, this route is uphill; route information may be updated. Check the latest details if you plan to include it in your itinerary.
There are also two different points of reference for getting around: TER trains provide access to Seyssel-Corbonod station, while the Via Rhôna runs through Seyssel alongside the tourist office. Timetables, route details and local access arrangements may change. So check the current timetable or route if you are planning to travel by train or use the cycle path.
Discover more destinations: Montagny-Les-Lanches, Lucinges, La Forclaz, Chessenaz, Chatel, Le Bouchet-Mont-Charvin, Habère-Lullin, Brizon
For the broader travel overview: Haute-Savoie.
