You are looking for new regions of France for your next vacation. Why not visit the department of Ardèche? Ardèche, located in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, is a department with a rich historical, cultural and architectural heritage. It is also the place where you can practice many sports and leisure activities, winter and summer. Whether you are a couple, with friends or family, we have all the answers for you!
What to do in Ardèche?
Ardeche is a very diverse region that offers many activities and attractions for vacationers. Here are some ideas for activities to do in Ardeche:
Visit the Gorges of Ardeche and the Causses du Quercy, two breathtaking natural landscapes.
Discover the perched villages of the region, such as Vogüé and Balazuc, which offer beautiful views of the surroundings.
Practice outdoor sports such as canoeing, climbing, biking or hiking in the many natural parks of the region.
Taste the wines of Ardèche and local culinary specialties such as truffles, mushrooms, walnuts and chestnuts.
Visit the many historical and cultural sites of the region, such as the castle of Vogüé, the prehistoric museum of Orgnac-l’Aven or the medieval village of Rochemaure.
Take advantage of the many festivals and events organized in Ardèche throughout the year, such as the Aubenas Comic Strip Festival or the Festival de la Chanson Française in La Voulte-sur-Rhône.
When to go to Ardèche?
Ardeche is a very pleasant region to visit all year round, even if some periods are more favorable than others to take advantage of its many attractions.
Spring and autumn are good seasons to visit Ardeche, with pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists.
Summer is the hottest season in Ardeche with temperatures up to 30°C, and also the most touristic. Many outdoor activities are offered by the main tourist sites but they can be very crowded and prices can be higher.
Winter is a quiet season in Ardèche, with average temperatures around 5°C and few tourists. There are still plenty of activities to do, such as hiking, cross-country skiing or winter sports in the region’s mountain resorts.
Top 10 sites not to be missed in Ardèche!
Cave Chauvet 2 – Ardèche
The Cave Chauvet 2 – Ardèche is a cave located in the region of Ardeche, France. It is named after the French archaeologist Jean-Marie Chauvet, who discovered it in 1994. The cave contains some of the oldest known cave paintings in the world, estimated to be over 30,000 years old. The paintings depict animals and humans, and the cave has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its cultural significance. It is an ideal destination for a visit with family and friends.
Learn more about the Cave Chauvet 2 – Ardèche
The Pont d’Arc
The Pont d’Arc is a magnificent natural bridge formed by the erosion of the river and is nearly 50 meters high. It is an ideal place for a hike with family or friends, with a breathtaking view of the surrounding valley. You can also swim in the crystal clear waters of the river below the bridge. If you like outdoor sports, you can also practice canoeing or rafting in the rapids of the river. The Pont d’Arc is a must-see in the region, not to be missed during your trip to Ardèche.
Learn more about the Pont d’Arc
Peaugres Safari
The Peaugres Safari is a zoological park located in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France. It offers a unique safari experience in Europe, with the opportunity to see over 1,000 animals of different species up close, including lions, giraffes, zebras and rhinos. The park also has a wide variety of attractions for children, such as an adventure course and a zip line course. This is a great activity to do with family and friends to discover new animal species and have fun in the great outdoors.
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Grand Site of the Aven d’Orgnac
The Grand Site de l’Aven d’Orgnac is a natural site located in the department of Ardèche in France. It is home to the Aven d’Orgnac cave, which is one of the largest decorated caves in Europe, and a nature reserve of over 200 hectares. The site, classified as a Grand Site de France since 2011, lends itself perfectly to outdoor activities such as hiking, observing the fauna and flora, discovering the geology and history of the region.
Learn more about the Grand Site of Aven d’Orgnac
Castle of Vogüé
The Château de Vogüé is a magnificent medieval castle perched on a hill overlooking the town of Vogüé. Built in the 12th century by the counts of Vogüé, it represents a remarkable example of feudal architecture with its ramparts, its towers and its battlements offering an unobstructed view on Ardèche valley.
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Ardeche Train
Ardeche Train in the Gorges of the Doux is an original tourist activity which consists in travelling through the magnificent Gorges de la Doux by steam train. It is an activity not to be missed by nature and railway history lovers. The 40 km trip allows you to discover the breathtaking landscapes of the region, while living an immersive experience aboard a vintage steam train. There are also stops for hiking and visiting historical sites.
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Saint-Marcel cave
Located in the department of Ardèche, the Saint-Marcel cave is a unique site, a real jewel of nature, with its huge rooms, its amazing concretions and its bright colors. A perfect activity for nature and adventure lovers, with family or friends. It is possible to discover the cave during a guided tour, where you can learn the secrets of the cave’s geology and history.
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Devil’s Bridge Thueyts
Classified as a historical monument since 1949, the Devil’s Bridge in Thueyts is a remarkable example of medieval architecture. The visit of this bridge offers a unique experience, where one can admire the exceptional panorama of Ardèche gorges. It is also possible to hike in the surroundings to discover other natural treasures.
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Balazuc Bridge
Located on the banks of the river Ardèche, in a wild and preserved natural setting, the beach under the bridge of Balazuc is an ideal place to relax and enjoy nature. It is sheltered under the historic bridge dating from the Middle Ages, which gives it a unique character. It is also possible to explore the gorges of Ardèche in canoes and kayaks or to hike in the surroundings to discover the natural landscapes of the region.
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Velorail of the Doux Gorges
The Velorail of the Doux Gorges is an original and playful experience accessible to all. It is an excellent way to discover the wonderful landscapes of the region while having fun. The Vélorail also offers stops for hiking or discovering cultural sites. It’s a great activity to do with family or friends.
Learn more about the Velorail of the Doux Gorges
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