There’s far more to the Ardèche than its famous river. Explore the area from top to bottom, with its natural treasures, some of them hidden: prehistoric caves, mysterious forests, volcanic waterfalls, stone villages and limestone cliffs…
Whether for a weekend or a longer stay, discover a (far from exhaustive) selection of 15 places to see in the Ardèche, such as the Pont d’Arc, the Grotte Chauvet 2, the Bois de Païolive, the Mont Gerbier-de-Jonc and many other tourist attractions to enjoy as a family or as a couple.
Head off on holiday to the Ardèche with a list of spots you simply have to see!
Which places to discover in the Ardèche, depending on what you fancy?
On holiday, pick the places to discover in advance according to the kind of stay you have in mind. With family, as a couple or with a group of friends, tastes can vary. Luckily for everyone, the Ardèche has something for everybody!
In such a spectacular natural setting, you can explore the Ardèche Gorges and the Pont d’Arc by canoe-kayak. Ideal for cooling off while discovering some beautiful spots. Love hiking? In the heart of the Monts d’Ardèche Regional Nature Park, set off on a day’s walk to reach the Cascade du Ray-Pic (Ray-Pic waterfall). Along the way, plenty of viewpoints invite you to take in this famous volcanic site.
History lovers and families with children will be desperate to visit the Grotte Chauvet 2 or the Aven d’Orgnac! Nearby, discover the culture and gastronomy of the area by stopping off at Balazuc, Vogüé, Labeaume or Alba-la-Romaine.
The great natural and prehistoric sites not to be missed
01
The Ardèche Gorges: the iconic canyon
Designated a national nature reserve since 1980, the Ardèche Gorges are the must-see site for your family holiday. Holidaymakers from all over the world come to admire this exceptional place!
On foot, by car or by canoe on the river, explore this reserve however you like. There’s no shortage of activities: canoe trips, hiking, bike rides, fishing, swimming… Or you can simply take in the beauty of the surrounding nature, especially the canyon, the cliffs and the river.
02
The Pont d’Arc: the most photogenic natural arch
Have you ever had the chance to gaze at a natural arch 54 metres high and 60 metres wide? Sounds impressive, doesn’t it? Well, that’s exactly what the Pont d’Arc in the Ardèche is.
Just 5 km from Vallon-Pont-d’Arc, this arch is part of the Ardèche Gorges national nature reserve. Gateway to the jewels of the Ardèche, you can reach it by canoe or on foot from the nearby car parks. Once there, stop for a picnic at the foot of the Pont d’Arc and remember to take some lovely holiday snaps. Every year, countless visitors and holidaymakers come to admire this masterpiece shaped by nature!
03
The Gorges scenic road: 11 viewpoints to admire the landscapes
Between Vallon-Pont-d’Arc and Saint-Martin-d’Ardèche, follow the D290, where you’ll find eleven viewpoints set up for breathtaking views. From them you can see the Pont d’Arc as well as many of the Gorges’ natural amphitheatres and meanders!
- Le Serre de Tourre
- The Pont d’Arc viewpoint
- Le Ranc-Pointu
- Le Balcon des Templiers
As a family with children or as a couple, head there to admire beautiful sunsets and discover splendid Ardèche landscapes. Bring a little picnic to make the most of the moment!
04
The Grotte Chauvet 2: a journey back to prehistoric times
Perhaps you’ve always wanted to visit the archaeological gem that is the Grotte Chauvet, with its paintings, drawings and engravings dating back some 36,000 years. Although the original cave can’t be visited, the Grotte Chauvet 2 recreates the experience in a 15-hectare park. As for the original Grotte Chauvet, it was discovered in 1994 and is decorated with 425 prehistoric depictions of animals.
With its immersive tour, the Grotte Chauvet replica offers holidaymakers a magnificent show:
- Immersive films
- Interactive touchscreens
- Themed areas
- Workshops and activities for children.
A visit to experience as a family or as a couple during your holiday in the Ardèche!
05
The Aven d’Orgnac: a monumental cave and the Cité de la Préhistoire
Step into gigantic underground chambers by visiting one of the Grands Sites de France: the Aven d’Orgnac.
Formed in limestone more than 100 million years old, the cave was only discovered in 1935. While you’re there, take time to step back in time and visit the Cité de la Préhistoire, which spans 350,000 years of prehistory. You can’t imagine how many stories lie behind authentic prehistoric objects!
With your children, learn the skills of our ancestors through outdoor workshops and demonstrations of prehistoric techniques: prehistoric hunting, Créa-Magnon workshops, discovering fire… Come face to face with prehistoric man!
06
The Bois de Païolive: a natural labyrinth of rocks and oaks
In the Bois de Païolive, explore the jumbled limestone rocks sculpted by erosion. On the hiking trails that cross this lush woodland, you’ll come face to face with rock formations as strange as they are impressive. Listed as a “Sensitive Natural Area”, this wood is a true labyrinth of limestone rocks and oak trees. This is where your Cévennes adventure continues!
In the forest, you’ll discover many animal species and rare plants. A great opportunity to introduce children to wildlife and plant life in a fun way. They may spot beavers on the riverbank and birds of prey such as the peregrine falcon or Bonelli’s eagle.
07
The Cascade du Ray-Pic: the volcanic power of the Monts d’Ardèche
A volcanic natural site, the Ray-Pic volcano produced one of the longest lava flows in France! No less… Starting from a trail in the Monts d’Ardèche Regional Nature Park, make your way to the Cascade du Ray-Pic, a haven of coolness… Along the path, illustrated panels tell you more about the origins of this geosite before you reach your destination. And thanks to several viewpoints, you can admire the Ray-Pic from different angles before seeing it up close… A word of advice: wear good hiking boots for this expedition.
Please note that, however tempting the water may be, swimming is forbidden for safety reasons.
08
The Mont Gerbier-de-Jonc and the sources of the Loire
Do you know the three springs that give birth to the Loire, France’s longest river? “L’Authentique”, “La Véritable” and “La Géographique”. It’s at the foot of the Mont Gerbier-de-Jonc that the Loire rises, before flowing into the Atlantic Ocean 1,020 kilometres later!
Now that you know this, get yourself in shape to climb the Mont Gerbier-de-Jonc for a 360° panoramic view over the volcanic lands! A hike not to be underestimated… But it’s well worth the effort! How about watching the sunrise from the summit of the Mont Gerbier-de-Jonc?
09
Lac d’Issarlès: swimming in the Ardèche mountains
With your loved ones, discover another gem of the Ardèche mountains: the Lac d’Issarlès. Filling an ancient maar crater covering 97 hectares at an altitude of 1,000 metres, it’s the setting for an exceptional day out: plenty of swimming, water sports and fishing. With family, as a couple or with friends, discover this mountain treasure!
The Lac d’Issarlès is ideal for cooling off between two hikes. With its crystal-clear waters and idyllic setting, you couldn’t wish for a better refreshing, invigorating break. The lake’s water sports centre offers several activities to enjoy alone or in a group: canoe-kayak, stand-up paddleboarding, rowing boats, pedalos…
Villages, castles and heritage: the other face of the Ardèche
10
Balazuc: one of the most beautiful villages in the Ardèche
As well as the Ardèche’s tourist sites, visit the area’s most beautiful villages, including Balazuc. Listed among the “Plus Beaux Villages de France” (Most Beautiful Villages of France) and awarded the Ardèche “Village de caractère” (village of character) label, Balazuc is perched on a cliffside overlooking the river. Fully cobbled lanes, stone houses, vaulted passageways and carved stairways: this village is best explored on foot, in a peaceful atmosphere.
Here, mix and match swimming, walks, water sports, cultural visits and local discoveries. Young and old alike will have a whale of a time on holiday. Parents, take your children to the Muséum de l’Ardèche, where dinosaur fossils millions of years old are on display!
11
Vogüé: a picture-postcard village on the Ardèche river
This summer, drift down the Ardèche river to the village of Vogüé, another village of character in the area that is also listed among the “Plus Beaux Villages de France”. They really are spoilt for choice!
Cycle around this riverside village, then explore on foot its medieval lanes, its stone houses clinging to the cliff and its castle. Speaking of the castle, it’s worth knowing that it hosts plenty of summer events in July and August, particularly well suited to families with children. In the evening, come and enjoy the friendly cultural evenings.
Combining nature, heritage and relaxation, Vogüé offers you a memorable family holiday in the Ardèche.
12
Labeaume: cliffs, river and a secret atmosphere
A visit that warms the heart… Stroll through the streets of Labeaume, an authentic village nestled against the limestone cliffs of the Ardèche.
Lulled by the Beaume river flowing at its feet, the village invites you to discover its hidden caves. At the top of the village, from a purpose-built viewpoint, expect a breathtaking view over Labeaume and the river.
Outside the village, the Récatadou hanging gardens welcome you onto their landscaped terraces. You can get there by car or via a waymarked trail along the river.
13
Alba-la-Romaine: ancient heritage and a village of character
Bearing witness to 2,000 years of history, the village of Alba-la-Romaine is perched on a volcanic cliff amid a landscape of vineyards. The village stands out for its houses with chequerboard façades combining basalt and limestone. With its unique setting, Alba-la-Romaine is perfect for walks, leisurely strolls and cultural discovery. Lovers of history, art and beautiful natural scenery, your getaway to Alba-la-Romaine in the Ardèche will be THE destination to discover this summer with your loved ones.
Going on holiday with your children? In summer, the archaeological site of Alba-la-Romaine brings its history back to life through open-air shows. Delve even deeper into the village’s history by visiting the MuséAI in the heart of the former Gallo-Roman city.
14
The Château de Crussol: a panorama over the Rhône valley
Budding knights, the Château de Crussol will be your playground during your holiday in the Ardèche. Built on a rocky spur, this castle, whose remains date back to the 12th century, serves up a panorama over the Rhône valley on a silver platter! On a 3-hectare historic site, discover centuries of medieval history kept behind the castle’s ramparts.
Good to know: you can visit and admire the ruins of the Château de Crussol free of charge at any time of year. A great way to spend quality time as a family, isn’t it?
Tourist activities to enjoy as a family
15
The Train de l’Ardèche: a journey through the Doux gorges
As a couple or as a family with children, hop aboard this train as it winds its way at 25 km/h through the Doux gorges. With its track clinging to the cliffside, this excursion reveals the wild landscapes of the Ardèche. Pulled by steam locomotives built in 1903 and 1932, set off on a wonderful adventure aboard the Train de l’Ardèche!
The Train de l’Ardèche line overlooks the river, offers splendid panoramic views and takes you on a journey back in time. A lovely activity to share as a family during your stay in the Ardèche.
How to plan your stay to visit the Ardèche?
To plan your stay in the Ardèche and your sightseeing schedule as well as possible, start by listing the tourist sites you absolutely want to explore and see. From this shortlist, you can plan your weekend or holiday in the Ardèche by grouping the sites by area and by day, to make getting around easier and make the most of your time there.
If you’re going for a weekend in the Ardèche, focus on places such as Vallon-Pont-d’Arc, the Pont d’Arc, the Grotte Chauvet 2 and the viewpoint road. If you still have a little time to spare, make a detour to Balazuc and Vogüé!
On a 4- to 5-day stay, you can add to your list: the Aven d’Orgnac, the Bois de Païolive, Labeaume, Alba-la-Romaine and the Cascade du Ray-Pic, to enrich your cultural getaway in the Ardèche.
For a longer stay, some will no doubt want to continue their Ardèche excursions by heading to the Mont Gerbier-de-Jonc or the Lac d’Issarlès for a refreshing break. Aboard the Train de l’Ardèche, the steam locomotives take you back in time alongside a wild river, through the untamed Doux gorges.
Finally, to make your getaway and sightseeing enjoyable, avoid the hottest hours of the day in summer in the villages and at the busiest sites during the high season.
Where to stay to discover the most beautiful places in the Ardèche?
The places to visit have been listed, the outdoor activities set out and Ardèche gastronomy touched upon, so all that’s left is to choose where to stay to discover the most beautiful sites in the Ardèche.
In a motorhome or with a caravan, find out about the spots where you can park for quick access to the various tourist attractions. As a family or a couple, you could also opt for premium campsite accommodation close to the sites you want to visit. The best option is to stay near Vallon-Pont-d’Arc for the Ardèche Gorges, the Pont d’Arc, the Grotte Chauvet 2 and the Aven d’Orgnac. And remember, you can also book a riverside rental so you can alternate sightseeing and swimming!
