Road trip on the most beautiful roads in the Ardèche

Wake-up call in Saint-Martin d'Ardèche

This road trip through the Ardèche starts in the small town of Saint-Martin d'Ardèche, on the border with the Gard department. For a gentle start to the day, head to one of the bakeries in the Rue Candelas for a delicious, still-warm Viennese pastry. At the water's edge, along the Ardèche, the Grain de Sel beach is the ideal spot to enjoy a pastry while admiring the cliffs that are so common in this gorge.

On the opposite bank, the medieval village of Aiguèze is perched high on the cliffs and looks set to plunge into the waters of the Ardèche. For longer-term travellers, take the time to explore the Place du Jeu de Paume, the church of Saint-Roch and the Grande Rue. These visits reveal the southern face of Aiguèze, with its distinctive local architecture!

Explore the famous Ardèche caves

There are many caves in the département, offering visitors memorable underground tours and constantly revealing their secrets, which are often very well kept. The largest underground network in the Ardèche, the Saint-Marcel cave is an unmissable labyrinth over 64 kilometres long. Flooded galleries, five superimposed levels and hundreds of pools of calcite make up the richness of this exceptional site.

For potholers at heart, head for the Grottes de la Madeleine and their impressive panorama over the canyon of the Gorges de l'Ardèche. Divided into two cavities, these caves rise over 60 metres, where minerals and plants enhance this impressive natural area.

Vallon-Pont-d'Arc: not to be missed

In the afternoon, opt for a swim as close as possible to the Pont d'Arc, in the midst of the kayaking apprentices in full descent of the Gorges. This sublime arch, the only one of its kind in the world, is the symbol of the Ardèche region par excellence, and with good reason!

Make the most of the end of the day to discover the small town of Vallon-Pont-d'Arc and its summer night market, where local craftsmen and producers present colourful stalls.

The Sampzon rock: a local emblem

The second day in chestnut country begins in the next village, Sampzon. Easily identifiable by its rocky outcrop, which dominates the surrounding area at an altitude of over 400 metres, this bastide offers uninterrupted views over several dozen kilometres.

For lunch, head to the Le Pont des Mazes restaurant, which serves colourful, gourmet local dishes. Chestnuts, local cheeses, catch of the day and homemade preparations make up the various menus at this culinary address.

• Address: Route de Ruoms, Les Blaches, 07150 Vallon-Pont-d'Arc
• Times: Open for lunch and dinner, except Mondays outside the summer period

A stroll through Ruoms

A leisurely stroll through Ruoms, in the shade of the narrow streets with balconies and terraces decorated with flowers by the locals. Situated at the entrance to the panoramic route of the Gorges de l'Ardèche, this medieval village is accessible via roads where tunnels and vaults are the order of the day.

Take your breath away at the Cirque de Gens

Undoubtedly one of the most magical spots in the département, the Cirque de Gens continues to grow over the years as the Ardèche flows along the limestone cliffs. Take your time to admire this landscape, in the calm of the vegetation and under the Ardèche sunshine.

Balazuc, a French nugget in the middle of the Ardèche

Balazuc, one of the Most Beautiful Villages in France and a Village of Character, is a must-see when visiting the département. Clinging to the cliffs, this village of cobbled streets and stone facades has undeniable charm. The many vaulted passageways, steep streets and medieval buildings are an instant attraction for the many tourists who visit every year.

Saint-Maurice d'Ardèche and Lanas: one foot in the Ardèche

On either side of the river, Saint-Maurice d'Ardèche and Lanas bear witness to their medieval and Renaissance past through their buildings. Before exploring them on foot, recharge your batteries at the Auberge Du Vieux Lanas, a meeting place for epicureans. Local cuisine, a selection of local wines and a warm welcome await guests in the heart of the village.

Address: 2 place Du Village, 07200 Lanas

Separated by a bridge, the two towns, with their typical Ardèche architecture, boast a wealth of buildings founded several centuries ago.

Discover Vogüé on foot

Small houses huddled together, narrow streets (very narrow in the case of the Rue des Puces), a freshly restored château and the river bank create a picturesque atmosphere that is truly unique to Vogüé. If you're feeling sporty, climb up to the Chapelle Saint-Cerice for a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding area!

Aubenas and its wonders

On this last day on the roads of the Ardèche, we head for the town of Aubenas and its heritage treasures. Before strolling through the streets of the old town, it's time to explore the secrets of the Château de Montlaur, home to a large collection of works of art. Set in a unique setting at the foot of the Dôme Saint Benoît, the Notes de Saveurs restaurant is perfect for a lunch break after a stroll through the medieval streets.

• Address: 16 Rue nationale, 07200 Aubenas
• Opening times: 12:00 - 13:30 Tuesday to Wednesday, 12:00 - 13:30 / 19:30 - 21:30 Thursday to Saturday

Conquering the cliffs at Pont du Diable

There's nothing better than a via ferrata to round off your trip in the fresh air! It's the perfect way to get to grips with one of the cliffs that give the Ardèche its distinctive skyline. At Thueyts, the Pont du Diable via ferrata is an adventure that combines sport and pleasure for the eyes. A final discovery that's vertiginous to say the least!