Sain-Bel, a charming commune in the Rhône department of eastern France, is a delightful destination for travelers looking to explore the picturesque Beaujolais region. With its scenic beauty, proximity to Lyon, and excellent rail connections, reaching Sain-Bel is straightforward, especially by train. Here’s a detailed guide to help you plan your journey.
Traveling by Train to Sain-Bel
Step 1: Travel to Lyon
Lyon, the third-largest city in France, is the closest major city to Sain-Bel and serves as the main transit hub for reaching the town. Here’s how to get there:
- From Paris:
- Take a high-speed TGV train from Paris Gare de Lyon to Lyon Part-Dieu or Lyon Perrache.
- Journey time: Approximately 2 hours.
- Frequency: Multiple departures daily.
- From Other French Cities:
- TGV and regional TER trains connect Lyon to cities like Marseille, Montpellier, and Strasbourg.
- Journey times vary but are typically between 2 and 4 hours.
- From International Locations:
- High-speed trains like the Eurostar (from London) and TGV Lyria (from Geneva and Zurich) offer direct connections to Lyon.
Step 2: Lyon to Sain-Bel
From Lyon, you can easily reach Sain-Bel via regional TER train services.
- Departure Station:
- Trains to Sain-Bel depart from Lyon Saint-Paul station, located in the city center.
- Route and Frequency:
- The train line to Sain-Bel is part of the Lyon–Montbrison railway.
- Trains run frequently, with services every 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the time of day.
- Journey Duration:
- The trip from Lyon Saint-Paul to Sain-Bel takes approximately 35 minutes.
- Tickets:
- Tickets can be purchased at the station, online via the SNCF website or app, or through ticket machines.
- Prices are affordable, with discounts available for youth, seniors, and families.
Other Transport Options
By Car
If you prefer driving, Sain-Bel is about 25 kilometers northwest of Lyon.
- Estimated driving time: Around 40 minutes.
- Roads: The route is well-signposted and takes you through scenic countryside.
- Parking: There are parking options in and around Sain-Bel.
By Bus
Occasional regional buses connect Lyon and Sain-Bel, but they are less frequent than trains. Check local schedules for updated information.
Exploring Sain-Bel
Once in Sain-Bel, enjoy the peaceful charm of this small town. From local cafes and markets to scenic walks and historical sites, there’s plenty to discover. Its location makes it an ideal base for exploring the broader Beaujolais region, famous for its vineyards and rolling hills.
Whether you’re traveling for leisure or a rural retreat, reaching Sain-Bel by train is the most convenient and scenic option. Bon voyage!
