Eurostar goes the extra mile: Lyon, Avignon and Aix in test phase

The new Eurostar service extending the cross-Channel network to Lyon, Avignon and Aix-en-Provence TGV entered its test phase on 4 May. It could be officially launched in 2015.

Lyon Part Dieu, Avignon TGV and Aix-en-Provence TGV: the range of destinations covered by the Eurostar network is expanding, offering new alternatives to French travellers. The inaugural journey on 4 May marks the start of a test phase that will run until 29 June, with a weekly Saturday service. It could lead to the service being rolled out across the board within two years: "In view of the great success [of the trials on the London-Avignon route] and with a view to refining a possible offer for 2015, Eurostar now wishes to test an extended service with new stations and over the spring period - May and June", says the press release.