In which village to stay to visit the Ardèche?

February 04, 2023

Are you leaving soon for a peaceful holiday in the charming department of Ardèche? So discover our guide to the best villages to stay in when visiting the Ardèche!

Located in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, the Ardèche is a French department whose name comes from the famous river that crosses it from west to east. Formerly known as Vivarais, a province belonging to the South-East of France and dependent on the Count of the Province, the Ardèche is still a very rural territory.

The former Occitan province is thus doubly spoiled: by nature and by the hand of man. Indeed, its territory being protected from large cities, it is home to many villages of character, among the most beautiful in France. Its picturesque heritage is accompanied by natural wonders. Thus, the Ardèche will charm all travellers, whether they come for a sporting holiday, a family holiday or a quiet weekend. There are many activities in the Ardèche: mountain biking in the Monts de l’Ardèche, descent of the Ardèche gorges in canyoning, or even horseback riding! So where to stay to visit the Ardèche?

In order to enjoy a pleasant stay, choosing the right accommodation to visit the Ardèche is very important! To help you prepare for your trip, we have listed the best villages to sleep in when visiting the Ardèche:

Read also :The 7 most beautiful treehouses in the ArdècheThe 16 most beautiful villages of Ardèche

Vallon-Pont-d’Arc

Vallon-Pont-d’Arc is certainly one of the best villages to sleep in when visiting the Ardèche! Three elements make this picturesque village an essential place in the department.

Firstly, it is perfectly located to carry out the descent of the Ardèche gorges by canoe-kayak. Indeed, it is possible to start a small or large descent from the neighboring village Sampzon, or from Vallon Pont d’Arc or Salavas, a neighboring village as well. Secondly, it is a high place of prehistory: many caves are nearby, and in particular the Chauvet cave, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. And thirdly, this is where the famous Pont d’Arc, a superb canyon dug by the river in the limestone! Do not hesitate to choose your accommodation to visit the Ardèche in this charming village, a cultural and tourist hotspot in the region.

Vogue

Ranked among the most beautiful villages in France, Vogue is a village with undeniable charm. Embedded in the mountain, as if it were its natural extension, Vogüé is one of the best villages to visit the Ardèche. In addition to its proximity to the river, the village is close to the Ardèche Mountains Natural Park and houses a charming 12th century castle!

Labeaume

Are you still wondering where to sleep to visit the Ardèche? So do not hesitate to discover the magnificent village of Labeaume. It is one of the most charming villages in the department.

City of music, since it hosts a classical music festival every summer, it is nestled against the cliffs and is home to beautiful picturesque houses made of pebbles and dressed in Virginia creeper! The famous Labeaume bridge is also a must, as well as the charming village beach. The neighboring village of Ruomsless rural, is also a very nice place to stay to visit the Ardèche!

Balazuc

Photo credit: Flickr – Brigitte Djajasasmita

Between Voguë and Ruoms is the picturesque village of Balazuc !

Built on the side of a cliff, it overlooks the Ardèche river. From the heights, you will enjoy a superb panorama of the surroundings. The village also hosts the Ardèche Museum, a very interesting natural history museum! From Balazuc, beautiful hikes await you along the river or in the neighboring Monts de l’Ardèche.

Saint Montan

Photo credit: Flickr -Brigitte Djajasasmita

We leave the Ardèche river for this charming village where to sleep to visit the Ardèche from another angle. Located on the border with Drôme, the medieval city of Saint Montan is known to house an imposing castle perched on a rocky point. In the heart of a green environment, it overlooks the houses, some of which date from the 12th century!

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