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Ardèche

What to do in Ardèche?

Published on 27 September 2021 · updated on 31 January 2022 · 4 min read
je By jerome
What to do in Ardèche?

Key takeaways

With 350,000 years of history, the Ardèche combines exceptional prehistoric caves, such as the Unesco-listed Chauvet Cave, with wild nature around the gorges and Mont Gerbier-de-Jonc. Kayaking, canyoning and hiking let you explore an unspoilt rural area, between the Aubenas district and the Cévennes.

With its distinctly rural character, the Ardèche department is a must-visit destination for anyone wanting to breathe fresh air and get away from it all. The Aubenas region, the Ardèche mountains, the Cévennes… so many breathtaking sites await discovery in the department during your stay at a luxury campsite. Not to mention the many water sports and fun activities you can enjoy, as well as the luxury campsites you can visit. Planning a trip to the Ardèche soon? You’ve come to the right place: this guide lists the must-see sites and the activities you can enjoy there.

Must-see spots

The Ardèche offers its visitors a unique natural landscape. Discover its must-see sites and prehistoric caves for an adventure like no other!

Caves to visit

The Chauvet Cave was discovered in 1994 in the town of Vallon-Pont-d’Arc. Since June 2014, it has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s recognised as the department’s most famous tourist attraction, home to nearly a thousand paintings and engravings.
You can also visit the Aven Marzal cave, which includes a prehistoric museum and zoo. A great option for family or group outings.

The Ardèche Gorges

This is another iconic tourist site in the department. The Ardèche Gorges form a canyon around thirty kilometres long. It lies on a limestone plateau between Vallon-Pont-d’Arc and Saint-Martin-d’Ardèche.

Peaugres Safari Park

If you’re looking for a truly different experience, don’t miss Peaugres Safari Park. This is a huge zoological park located in the town of Peaugres. Spanning an area of 80 hectares, it’s home to nearly a thousand animals from more than 120 species. You can explore it by car or on foot.

The Cité de la Préhistoire

This magnificent site is perfect for prehistory enthusiasts. It’s a fun, interactive museum that takes you through 350,000 years of history.

Things to do

The Ardèche offers its visitors a wide choice of activities. Here’s our selection of outings for your holiday at a campsite in the Ardèche.

A kayak descent

You can explore the Ardèche Gorges by kayak. Available routes range from 6, 12, 24, 30 up to 36 km. You’ll be accompanied by a team of organisers who guide you on site, so you can enjoy the activity in complete safety.

Canyoning

You can practise this activity in the Ardèche Gorges. There are several spots where you can do this: the Chassezac canyon, Besorgues, Pas de Fer, Borne… and many more!

Hikes and walks in nature

Given the richness of its wild, natural spaces, the Ardèche offers wonderful hiking opportunities. You could, for example, choose the Monts d’Ardèche Nature Park. Not to mention the lovely nature walks you can enjoy around the Cascade du Ray Pic waterfall. Finally, if you love a challenge, don’t miss the climb to the summit of Mont Gerbier-de-Jonc at 1,551 metres above sea level.

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frequently asked questions

Frequently asked questions about the Ardèche

Since when has the Chauvet Cave been Unesco-listed?

It has been on the Unesco World Heritage list since June 2014.

How big is the Peaugres Safari park?

This zoological park covers 80 hectares and is home to nearly a thousand animals from more than 120 species.

What kayaking distances are on offer in the Gorges?

Routes range from 6 to 36 km, supervised by a team of organisers.

What's the altitude of Mont Gerbier-de-Jonc?

It rises to 1,551 metres, accessible to hikers who enjoy a challenge.

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