Hiking boots on and rucksack on your back, you’re off on a brand-new adventure along the finest hiking trails in the Ardèche! Setting off from your campsite, the lush green landscapes of this wildly beautiful region await: the Ardèche Gorges, waterfalls, hidden rivers and sheer cliffs – one natural backdrop follows another, each more dazzling than the last. When it comes to walks, the Ardèche is so rich in routes and trails that you can pick the style that suits you and follow your fancy.
The most beautiful trails to discover in the Ardèche
To immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of the Ardèche, the best thing to do is to follow its most legendary hiking routes. What’s more, there’s something for every level. Here’s a quick round-up of the finest hikes in the Ardèche to enjoy during your stay:
- Montoulon trail: a walk of just over an hour starting from the centre of Privas, through the town’s streets and then into the surrounding countryside. Highlights include a spectacular viewpoint over the town and the valley. Fairly easy, it’s a lovely family hike in the Ardèche.
- Loop via the Cirque d’Estre and the Pont d’Arc: as part of the route runs alongside the Ardèche river, it will be hard to resist taking a refreshing dip and then enjoying a picnic on its banks. Ideal for discovering one of the region’s natural wonders on your hiking holiday in the Ardèche: the famous Pont d’Arc.
- Route des Dragonnades: a path steeped in history, as it was created to allow Louis XIV’s dragoons to reach the most isolated villages of the Ardèche. Divided into several stages, the Route des Dragonnades hiking trail starts in Privas, then takes you to discover picturesque Ardèche towns such as Saint-Pierreville, Cheylard and its Château de la Chèze, Saint-Christol and more.
- Rocher de Sampzon loop: a loop around the town of Sampzon, a stone’s throw from your 5-star campsite in the Ardèche. Of intermediate difficulty, this hiking route requires a good level of fitness.
- View over Sampzon: hop on your mountain bike from Les Mazes near Vallon-Pont-d’Arc and take in one breathtaking viewpoint after another over the Ardèche Gorges. A mountain bike ride in the Ardèche for all levels, though it does require a good level of fitness.
Tips for a successful hike
Here are a few tips for hitting the hiking trails in the Ardèche worry-free and in complete safety:
- Hiking gear: good shoes, of course, but also clothing that lets you move freely, a cap and sunglasses. To find your way, a detailed map, plus something to eat and drink.
- Safety precautions: we recommend letting someone know when you set off and which route you will be taking. In case your hike lasts a little longer than planned, pack a head torch to light your way after dark.
- The ideal season: spring and summer are both perfect seasons for a nature hike in the Ardèche. In summer, if high temperatures are forecast, set off early in the morning.
The best campsites near the hiking trails in the Ardèche.
To fully immerse yourself in the Ardèche countryside, the ideal choice is of course a campsite right in the heart of the region, within easy reach of the hiking trails. With that in mind, here’s a quick tour of our 4- and 5-star campsites in the Ardèche:
- Le Soleil Vivarais: a true 14-hectare green haven in the Ardèche Gorges, where the whole family can enjoy their favourite campsite activities: swimming pool, water park with slides, paddling pool, hot tub, balneotherapy, kids’ and teens’ clubs, sports, dance classes and more. Its 5 stars give you a clue to the quality of the services our holidaymakers enjoy.
- Les Jardins de Privas: a 4-star campsite near Privas offering top-notch campsite facilities, such as an aquatic area with a heated indoor pool, slides, sports pitches, a trampoline, pétanque courts, table tennis tables and more.
Book your camping holiday near the Ardèche trails without delay, and come and enjoy an intense outdoor experience in search of nature and green tourism.
