Vallon-Pont-d'Arc

Every year, the streets of Vallon-Pont-d'Arc come alive and fill up as the sun lights up the Ardèche and temperatures rise. A testament to the green and rocky riches of the region, local emblems such as the Pont d'Arc punctuate the daily strolls of locals and travellers alike.

A cultural hotspot, this holiday-camp-like village hides one of the most beautiful masterpieces of prehistory: the Grotte Chauvet, nestling just a few metres from the famous arch. Some of the Aubusson Tapestries can be viewed on guided tours of the château-like town hall.

At the entrance to the Ardèche Gorges, the Pont d'Arc has a surprising geological shape. This natural arch, dating back at least 124,000 years, was hollowed out by the river that flows beneath it. An incredible spot in summer for canoeists, who are lucky enough to be able to pass underneath it and enjoy the spectacle while looking up. Many canoeists leave their canoes on the side of the river to enjoy a swim and take a souvenir photo.

Depending on the time of day, the site takes on different colours, much to the delight of visitors. Pleasant to contemplate in the morning when the river sparkles in the sunshine, the Pont d'Arc takes on a different look in the evening, when the sunset reflects off the rocks on the cliff, giving them an orange hue. Bordered by two white sandy beaches, it's the perfect spot for a picnic in spring!

Canoeing, museums and unusual visits: an astonishing programme

After contemplating the natural wonders outside, head to Grotte Chauvet 2, where you'll be able to enjoy the ancestral skills of man in the art world. Drawings, engravings, paintings and sculptures adorn the stone, which has been faithfully reproduced from the original site a few kilometres away.

During the summer months, take one of the many canoes down part of the Gorges de l'Ardèche, between the rapids and the sublime landscapes that line the waters. As the river twists and turns, the greenery of the Ardèche reveals itself to the novice kayakers under the invigorating sunshine. At the end of the day, when the weather is fine, the colourful market stalls of Vallon-Pont-d'Arc and the surrounding area reveal their colours in a different way, to the delight of visitors.

For sweet snacks and cravings, head to the ice cream museum, where tasting goes hand in hand with instruction. Founded by master ice-cream maker Thierry Aigon, the museum tells the story of ice cream and how it is made, before offering visitors a tasting session. On the terrace or in the room, everyone opts for their favourite flavour and all that's left to do is enjoy the joys of summer!

📍 Address: Route de Ruoms, 07150 Vallon-Pont-d'Arc

🍴 Where to eat?

Renowned for its vineyards, the Ardèche is the ideal place to sit down on a shady terrace with a panoramic view over the valley. At Domaine Le Grand Jardin, the wine bar is a convivial place where local know-how and light-hearted conversation come together in harmony. The senses are awakened over a house wine and a platter of charcuterie and cheeses; a treat for the taste buds, the eyes and the nose!

📍 Address: 20 chemin de la clapouze, Le Grand Jardin, 07150 Vallon-Pont-d'Arc

⏰ Opening times: 9am - 12pm Monday, 9am - 12pm / 2pm - 6pm Tuesday to Friday, 9am - 12pm / 2pm - 5pm Saturday

Italian flavours and finesse await locals and tourists alike at l'Allegra. Risotto, taglierini, bruschetta and tiramisu are laid out on the intimate tables of this cellar-like restaurant.

📍 Address: 6 Rue du Barry, 07150 Vallon-Pont-d'Arc

⏰ Opening times: 12pm - 2pm / 6.30pm - 9.30pm Tuesday to Saturday, 12pm - 2pm on Sunday

⭐ Where to stay?

In the Ardèche, many travellers set down their luggage at campsites, where wandering and letting go are the order of the day. At Les Rives d'Arc, comfort is paramount, in a chic setting in the heart of nature. Combine the spirit of a campsite with the luxury of a hotel? Vallon-Pont-d'Arc has it!

Less than 500 metres from the banks of the Gorges and the town centre, the hotel Le Clos des Bruyères welcomes guests in a relaxing setting, where a swimming pool, sauna and jacuzzi complete the aquatic facilities on offer. Each morning, get your feet under the table with a continental breakfast in the hotel's restaurant. A little refreshment at the bar during the day and holiday mode is definitely on!