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Although western Switzerland and southern France are predominantly wine drinking areas, beer consumption is increasing. Main varieties are Blonde (light coloured lager) and Blanche (cloudy slightly sweet tasting beer made from wheat). Pan-European breweries, such as Kronenbourg and Heineken, produce most of the beer, however, there are a growing number of brasserie artisanal local breweries brewing distinct local beers.

All the usual soft drinks (colas, lemonade, fruit juices, mineral waters) are widely available. Local specialities include Rivella, a Swiss drink sweetened with lactose (milk sugars) and available in a number of varieties. The spring from which Evian water (one of the world’s biggest mineral water brands) is sourced is passed on Stage 5A.

Amenities and services

Grocery shops

All cities, towns and larger villages passed through have grocery stores, often supermarkets, and most have pharmacies. Even small villages have boulangeries (bakers), which open early and produce fresh bread throughout the day. Shop opening hours vary and in southern France many shops close in the afternoon between 1.00pm and 4.00pm.