Discover all the wealth of Ardèche region, a treasure trove of rivers, caves, water sports, vineyards, outdoor pursuits and gastronomy. We have listed below some of the possibilities we have enjoyed over the years and some we have still to experience!
Caves
Aven d'Orgnac
The caves the Aven d'Ornac shows e stalagmites and stalactites that are still alive and growing (very very slowly of course). If you only plan to see one cave, choose this on
The Madeleine Cave is situated at the heart of the Ardèche Canyon on the scenic road that overhangs the river Ardèche from Vallon Pont d’Arc to Saint Martin. A favourite of ours due to the great views of the Ardeche river from the visitor centre.
Grotte de la Cocalière
Better if you have reduced mobility a little tourist train takes you into cave. Its a great cave and handy in you want to take in the Païolive Wood too as they are nearby
CAVE OF PONT D'ARC
This space reconstitution of the Chauvet Cave open in Spring 2015
This is an amazing and magical place where art and technology have helped unveil the millennia frescoes
Ardeche Gorges, Pont Arc and the Scenic route D290:
The serpentine Ardèche River slithers between towering mauve, yellow and grey limestone cliffs from near Vallon Pont d'Arc to St-Martin de l'Ardèche a few kilometres west of the Rhône. En route, it passes beneath the Pont d'Arc, a stunning natural stone bridge created by the river's torrents.
The river forms the centrepiece of the 1575-hectare Réserve Naturelle des Gorges de l'Ardèche, a protected area since 1980. Follow the Vallon Pont d'Arc is the area's main hub; its tourist office is in the village centre. The scenic riverside D290 snakes south eastward from Vallon Pont d'Arc There are several market parking stop off's where you can literately hang over the cliffs edge and view the grand canyon of Europe form above
Wines of the Ardeche:
Why not sample the local wines!
- The Domaine de Bournet vinifies large Ardèche Grapes: Viognier, Chardonnay, Syrah, Grenache, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Marsellan they offer tastings and are local to Largentiere.
http://www.vin-ardeche-07.com/
Located in the commune of Grospieres:
Bournet, 07120 Grospierres, France or pop into your sat nav Latitude : 44°24'8.720964'' Longitude : 4°16'12.7398''
- The caveau is open as follows: 0h à 12h30 - 14h30 à 18h30
Visit of the vineyard Domaine Bournet followed by a tasting and a meal at the restaurant "La Ferme du Château de Bournet".
- Tastings - There are always tastings available at Lardechoise The house of Ardeche Produce from Chestnuts to Vino! Its located at the bottom of largentiere with loads of free parking (adjoining the Intermarche Super supermarket also the nearest supermarket.
http://www.lardechoise.net/
- Finally if you want it all in one place then visit the wine cooperative discovery centre in Roums close to the Gorges of Ardèche and Vallon Pont d’Arc!
Païolive Wood:
A haven of peace for many plant and animal species, the Païolive Wood, in the Ardèche Cévennes, near to the town of Les Vans, extends for 16 km² on the edge of the magnificent Chassezac gorges. Nicknamed the Fairy Wood, this protected area, Mediterranean in type, with its holm and white oaks, is dotted with limestone ruiniform rocks, whose mineral shapes make real natural sculptures.
In the course of a ramble you can admire the marvels of this strange place: petrified rocks making astonishing shapes such as a bear or a lion, or a bird on her nest!
Canoe the Gorges:
The Most Beautiful Villages of France:
A listing of approximately 160 Beautiful villages or villages of character throughout France two of which border the Ardeche River. Lovely places to take in the Ardeche, have a stroll and maybe a glass of wine!
A day at the Spa:
- The town of Vals-les-Bains is a spa specializing in the treatment of diabetes, liver ailments, stomach, intestines and obesity issues. In recent years, it has developed as a centre for wellness and fitness. The town, is crossed by the Voltour Volane, and is bordered by the Ardèche and the Besorgues, making it a water town in every sense of the word.
- For something on your doorstep - The Spa at Domaine Les Ranchisses - Le Natur is a new modern space overlooking the pools of the domain who are hosting our wedding celebrations.
- http://www.lesranchisses.fr/activites/camping-spa-ardeche-naturspa.html
For more information on the range of things to do in the Ardecehe be sure to visit:
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