Ardèche: discover one of the most beautiful regions of France

The Ardèche is a French department located in the region Auvergne-Rhônes-Alpes. Very popular with tourists, it has even become one of the most beautiful regions of France with its rich heritage, numerous picturesque villages and sites must-haves. So what is it like to stay in this beautiful place and what are the places you should definitely visit? An overview of the tourism and travel in the Ardèche.

Holidays in the Ardèche: where to go? What to do?

You are visiting the region Auvergne-Rhônes-Alpes  and you're not sure which place to visit first? Here's a short list of the most beautiful places in the Ardèche:

Vallon Pont d'Arc

This prehistoric village is perfect for all nature lovers. In addition to being a place to relax and get away from it all, it is also a place rich in history, since many caves have been discovered here, such as the Chauvet cavewith frescoes dating back 36,000 years. This mineral arch 54 metres high, under which the river Ardèche flows, is also ideal for swimming and outdoor activities. For hiking enthusiasts, you can walk to the Chastelas(Distance: 3.4 km). The Camping de l'Ardèche in Vallon Pont d'Arc is an ideal location. 

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Vogüé

Situated on the banks of the Ardèche and backed by a cliff, this place is classified as a the most beautiful villages of France. Moreover, the castle of the Lords of Vogüé and its four round towers watch over the village and its amphitheatre-like streets dotted with arches and vaulted passageways. You can sit quietly on the rocks and gaze at the small, colourful houses huddled together. You can also take a trip to on the beach and have fun on the canoes, or why not take a bike ride along the 25 km route from Vogué to Grospierres.

Balazuc

Welcome to this vertiginous village which dates back to prehistoric times and which, through the centuries, has always retained its charm and its southern atmosphere thanks to its winding streets, its Roman church and its stone ramps. It is also classified as one of the most beautiful villages in France and has even been awarded the Village of Character. In addition, the area is home to several iconic sites that are ideal for a variety of activities tourist such as the voie verte, for mountain biking, or Les Barasses, for rock-climbing enthusiasts.

Labeaume

Contemplate these magnificent caves and rustic houses of LabeaumeThe village is surrounded by impressive limestone caves, with many narrow streets and vaulted passageways. The village is surrounded by impressive limestone caves and has many narrow streets and vaulted passageways. You can admire the view, take photos or relax on the beach. You can also climb up to the Belvedere or walk along the river to the Récatadou hanging gardens, which cling beautifully to the cliffs overlooking the Beaume gorges. If you come in summer, you can enjoy concerts at the Labeaume en Musiques festivalwhich take place from mid-July to mid-August.

Saint-Montan

This village of Ardèche character is situated between two rivers, on the border with the Drôme. This place has made the Ardèche one of the most beautiful regions of France thanks to its large perched castle on a mountainous point, with its cobbled streets and pretty stone houses. Magnificent architecture that takes you back to the Middle Ages, always in a very green setting. You can walk from the dungeon to the esplanade of the castle, from San Samonta to Sainte-Marie, from the Portalet spring to the Eylieux stream, or contemplate the view while sitting on the café terraces. You can also visit thechurch of San SamontaThe church was a 10th century priory and a 12th century north chapel, but is now joined by a beautiful porch with a portal carved with ovals, pearls and palmettes.

Annonay 

Would you like to live a unique and unforgettable experience? Come to Annonay, which, in addition to being the largest city in the departmentis the cradle of the Hot air balloon. Get on board this flying machine and enjoy a breathtaking view of all the villages and natural sites of the Ardèche. You can also go cycling in the countryside and discover the most beautiful roads and paths of the area with the cyclotourists of Annonciation. For motorbike fans, the area is also perfect for moped rides, going to the Archédois plateau, the Pilat park or the Drôme des collines.

Travel and stay in Ardèche: the best addresses

If you are coming to the Ardèche for the weekend or the holidays, you will certainly need a place to eat and sleep. Here are some of the best addresses in the area:

Val thermal baths

This spa is located in the heart of the Monts d'Ardèche Regional Nature Parkin the country ofAubenas-Vals-Antraigues. It is surrounded by steep hills, clear rivers and deep valleys that are home to incredible flora and fauna. A place of relaxation and well-being, you can come here not only to rest and sleep, but also to sample delicious local produce. gourmet meals.

Wine estates in the Ardèche

This region is full of numerous wine estates that will make you experience a wine experience exceptional. This trip will take you to discover the vineyards and small producers, and you will experience a unique tasting session. You can discover the wines and culinary specialities from the Ardèche by coming for example to the Auberge des Ranchisses, which is in Chassier, the Auberge Les Murets in Chandolas, or the Auberge de Montfleury in Saint-Germain.