Holidays in Ardèche

Ardèche is the ideal destination for an unforgettable summer vacation, offering a multitude of options for family or romantic stays. Between its rivers, mountains and spectacular landscapes, Ardèche promises a breathtaking experience.

This department includes many natural sites and charming villages, making it an unmissable place when talking about the Rhône-Alpes region.

Towns and villages to visit

Vallon Pont d’Arc : The tourist heart of Ardèche, Vallon Pont d’Arc is famous for its impressive natural limestone bridge which spans the river. This village is also the ideal starting point for exploring the Ardèche gorges, offering activities such as canoeing, hiking and caving.

Balazuc : Perched on a cliff overlooking the Ardèche river, Balazuc is classified among the “Most Beautiful Villages in France”. With its narrow medieval streets, its stone houses and its Romanesque church, this village is a window open to the past.

Vogüé : Vogüé is distinguished by its medieval castle which dominates the village and offers a panoramic view of the Ardèche valley. The cobbled streets and arcades add to the charm of this village, where it is good to stroll and discover the small craft shops.

Labeaume : Nestled in a meander of the Beaume river, Labeaume charms with its pebble beaches, its limestone cliffs and its streets lined with stone houses. It is an ideal place for swimming in summer and for the classical music concerts which are regularly organized there.

Saint-Montan : Rebuilt and restored by volunteers, Saint-Montan offers a journey back in time with its feudal castle, its narrow streets and its stone houses typical of Ardèche. It is an excellent starting point for hikes in the surrounding scrubland.

Alba-la-Romaine : Known for its archaeological site and its museum which illustrate life during Antiquity, Alba-la-Romaine is also famous for its theater festival. The village, with its cobbled streets and Roman remains, offers a unique atmosphere that combines history and culture.

The Ardèche is a true paradise for lovers of outdoor activities, with opportunities for swimming, climbing, hiking, and even horse riding. The region’s picturesque villages are also rich in history and culture, allowing you to discover castles, museums and other historic monuments.

The most emblematic sites of Ardèche

The Ardèche is full of emblematic sites that captivate both with their natural beauty and their historical and cultural importance. Here’s a more detailed exploration of these must-see places, including Aven d’Orgnac, a major addition to the department’s list of wonders:

Ardèche Gorges and Pont d’Arc : This spectacular canyon, formed by the Ardèche River, is famous for the Pont d’Arc, a 60 meter wide natural arch. The gorge offers an exceptional playground for canoeing, as well as numerous lookouts offering breathtaking views of the limestone cliffs and serpentine river.

Aven d’Orgnac : Classified as a Grand Site de France, the Aven d’Orgnac is an immense cave decorated with giant stalactites and stalagmites. Its main room, as high as a cathedral, impresses with its dimensions and the beauty of its limestone formations. The site also includes a Prehistory Museum, enriching the visit with an educational perspective on the first inhabitants of the region.

Caverne du Pont d’Arc (replica of the Chauvet Cave) : This faithful replica allows visitors to discover the cave paintings of the Chauvet Cave, listed as a UNESCO world heritage site. Works dating back more than 36,000 years bear witness to the cultural and artistic richness of the first modern humans in Europe.

Mont Gerbier de Jonc : Source of the Loire, Mont Gerbier de Jonc is a volcanic seep which offers a panoramic view of the mountainous Ardèche. The climb to the summit is a popular hike, offering spectacular perspectives and direct contact with the intense nature of the area.

Why book in Ardèche with Sowell?

Sowell offers you different holiday packages in Ardèche in its establishments, ranging from classic hotel rooms to holiday residences with full services. Each establishment guarantees you comfortable accommodation, whether for one night or for an extended stay. Located near natural sites and offering various activities, choosing Sowell guarantees recognized quality and excellent value for money, with options such as the all-inclusive formula, for a stay where everything is planned for your comfort.