As you approach Tain-l'Hermitage by car or train, you can't help but notice the steep vine-clad hills on either side of the Rhône sporting enormous placards with the names of the region's leading wine brands: Chapoutier, Jaboulet, Amadieu, etc. This is the heart of the Rhône Valley's great appellations—Côte-Rôtie, Condrieu, Saint-Joseph, Hermitage, Crozes-Hermitage—and within a few-minute's walk from the train station you'll find enough wine boutiques, tasting rooms, and dining to last you the weekend. Tain-l'Hermitage is also the world headquarters of Valrhona Chocolate, whose delightful museum and boutique provide a delicious afternoon of discovering and tasting the world's favorite sweet.