A visit to the Ardèche is an opportunity for a rejuvenating escapade in the heart of one of France’s most verdant regions. Nature reigns here, expressing all its beauty and inventiveness in the crystal-clear rivers, gorges, forests, and the amazing geological sites… You’ll be surrounded by breathtaking scenery, just perfect for hiking or watersports. With its rich history and local culture, a trip to the Ardèche is also a chance to explore a series of unique tourist attractions and to savour the many culinary specialities.

 

Paradise for outdoor activities

With such an array of stunning natural landscapes, hiking enthusiasts will be spoilt for choice during their camping holiday in the Ardèche. Here are just a few of the loveliest trails you can follow when on holiday with the family in the Ardèche:

  • Mont Gerbier de Jonc: this hike starts from Privas and is accessible to all, taking you through the volcanic landscapes of the Monts d’Ardèche Regional Natural Park.
  • Les crêtes de Trappes Loup: from Ruoms to Pradon, a foray into the wild natural landscapes of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. Ideal for beginners looking for vast open spaces and stunning views of the Massif Central.
  • La Payre greenway, on a mountain bike: a superb mountain bike route along a disused railway line through the bucolic landscapes of the Ardèche. A ride for cyclists at the beginner and intermediate levels.

Another way to visit the Ardèche and appreciate its fauna and flora is to take to the water, along its many rivers. But where are the best places to go canoeing and kayaking? Here are some of our favourite locations:

  • The Gorges de l’Ardèche: this thirty-kilometre canyon is one of the most famous canoeing and kayaking spots in the Rhône Valley and Massif Central. The best part? When you pass under the iconic Pont d’Arc, near Vallon-Pont-d’Arc.
  • Les Assions: not far from Sampzon and Vallon-Pont-d’Arc, a superb spot for some canoeing or kayaking on the River Chassezac, which is less busy than the Ardèche!
  • Ruoms: a small medieval village providing an idyllic backdrop for your canoe trip on the River Ardèche.

 

Natural sites to explore

The Ardèche boasts a wealth of iconic landmarks and landscapes, just waiting to be discovered. As there are so many of them, we’ve put together a small selection of our favourites:

  • Pont d’Arc: a breathtaking natural arch that spans the River Ardèche and stands some 54 metres tall.
  • Ray-Pic waterfall: a natural 35-metre-high waterfall that surges from the volcanic rock in the Monts d’Ardèche Regional Natural Park.
  • The Monts d’Ardèche Regional Natural Park: a stunning jewel of nature formed from a wealth of different landscapes, covering more than 2,000 km². The park’s showpiece, Mont Gerbier de Jonc, is best known as the source of the River Loire which flows from here all the way to the Atlantic Ocean.

 

Gastronomy and terroir

The Ardèche boasts a rich culinary tradition. On the menu for your gastronomic discovery of the Ardèche and its terroirs? Crique ardéchoise, a deliciously crispy potato pancake; caillette, a pork meatball dish flavoured with spinach and herbs; picodon, a slightly tangy goat’s cheese; and candied chestnuts, a speciality from Privas.

To continue your culinary tour of the Ardèche and the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, you simply must visit some of the area’s best markets. First, head for the market in Ruoms to fill your basket with honey, olive oil and goat’s cheese. Then take a trip to the evening market in Vans, exclusively reserved for local producers and artisans.

 

The best campsites in the Ardèche

Once you’ve set your sights on this amazing region, you’ll need a base camp! And what better than a campsite offering the ultimate in comfort, located near one of the most stunning sites in the Ardèche?

Les Jardins de Privas: an idyllic haven of greenery that enjoys direct access to the River Ouvèze. When it comes to activities, you’ll find only the very best: an aquatic playground, swimming pool, paddling pool, waterslides, multisports ground, trampoline, entertainment… and that’s just a small snapshot of what this 4 star campsite has in store for you.

Le Soleil Vivarais: a 5 star campsite where you’ll find out what relaxation really means.
With the swimming pool, solarium terrace, balneotherapy facilities, whirlpool, aquafun area, spa, sauna… you’ll find everything you could wish for. So put your worries aside the minute you arrive and enjoy! The little extra that’ll seal the deal? Our campsite has direct access to the River Ardèche and its gorges.

When it comes to accommodation, both campsites offer several types of rental unit, including cottages, villages, mobile homes and lodges. Take your pick to suit your style and expectations. For a back-to-nature camping experience, why not opt for one of our pitches for tents, camper vans and caravans (minimum 80 m2, access to the power supply, private sanitary facilities as an option, etc.)?