Musée des Mariniers du Rhône
About This Museum
Tucked away in the riverside village of Serrières, where the Rhône makes a gentle bend, this museum tells the story of the mariniers—the tough, skilled boatmen who were the lifeblood of this region for centuries. It's not a grand, imposing place, but rather feels like stepping into their world, filled with the whispers of the river and its people. You'll find everything from beautifully detailed scale models of the famous 'sapines,' the flat-bottomed wooden boats that carried wine and silk, to old photographs capturing faces weathered by sun and water. It’s a quiet tribute to a way of life that shaped the very identity of this stretch of the river.
Collection Highlights
Look for the impressive full-sized barque du Rhône moored right outside, along with intricate boat models, traditional tools, and poignant personal items like a sailor's carefully painted hope chest.
Visitor Information
It's a small museum, so you won't need more than an hour or two—perfect for a stop before a stroll along the quay. Best to check their opening times online before you go, as they can be seasonal.
Architecture & Building
Housed in a charming old stone building that was once a riverside chapel, its humble architecture feels perfectly suited to its purpose.
Contact & Location
Address: Rue du Musée, Saint-Sornin, Serrières, Tournon-sur-Rhône, Ardèche, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France métropolitaine, 07340, France
Phone: +33 4 75 34 00 46
Website: Visit Website
