From the sources of River Loire at Mont-Gerbier de Jonc to the secret valleys in the Cévennes and the wild Gorges of the Ardèche, the beauty of its wild landscapes make Ardèche a top destination of Southern France to discover by car on foot or on a cycle.
Known for its breathtaking landscapes such as the Ardèche Gorges, a natural paradise for canoe-kayak lovers, the Ardèche mountains with its volcanic heritage, its many caves such as the Aven d’Orgnac ‘Grand Site de France’, Ardèche offers a preserved nature with a wide range of outdoor activities in the Monts d’Ardèche Regional Nature Park. Little roads lead you to our 18 sunny medieval villages with outstanding character like Vallon-Pont-d'Arc for exemple, under the shade of chestnut trees, the colourful small markets with local products such as cheeses, delicatessen, chestnuts, Côtes du Rhône and Côtes du Vivarais wines, mineral waters... and the stalls of craftsmen in love with their land.
Thanks to a Mediterranean climate, wild river gorges and crystal clear waters, lavender fields, Ardèche is a dream destination for the joys of holidays for everyone. With an easy access thanks to its location along the Rhône Valley, Ardèche offers numerous and various stays for cultural or sporting groups, for families or individuals in camping sites, self-catering accommodation, hotels and guesthouses.
The history of its inhabitants, from prehistoric ancestors of the Chauvet Cave who drew the most astonishing cave paintings – the Chauvet Cave is candidate for registry as a UNESCO world heritage site - to the great inventors in Annonay - Marc Seguin and his suspended bridge, the crocodile farm, the sources of well-being, the Montgolfier brothers with the very first hot-air balloon - will come to light through the numerous museums and places of interest.
Ardèche is a privileged land of adventure for sports with canoeing, kayaking, cycling, climbing, mountain-biking, hiking, ballooning... among many others.
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