Roanne Travel Guide

390km (242 miles) SE of Paris; 87km (54 miles) NW of Lyon

This industrial town on the left bank of the Loire is a popular excursion from Lyon and Vichy because it's home to one of France's greatest three-star restaurants, the La Maison Troisgros.

In a neoclassical mansion built at the end of the 18th century, Musée Joseph-Déchelette, 22 rue Anatole-France (tel. 04-77-23-68-77), showcases an exceptional collection of Italian and French earthenware from the 16th, 17th, 18th, and 20th centuries, as well as Roanne earthenware. Hours are Mondays and Wednesdays through Thursdays 10am to noon and 2 to 6pm. On Saturday and Sunday, the museum is open only in the afternoon. Admission is 5€ for adults, 2.80€ for students, free for ages 17 and under, and free for everyone on Wednesday afternoon.