ARDECHE

Ardeche is home to a multitude of landscapes, each one as picturesque and fascinating as the next. It has wild, rugged landscapes for those seeking outdoor adventure, as well as plenty to appeal to those in search of cultural and architectural delights. Located at the eastern extremity of the Massif Central, the area passes from the Rhone Valley in the east, an important communication axe, to the remote Ardeche Mountains in the west. The area is influenced by different climatic regimes; as you travel south you can pass from lush high plateaux to sun parched terraced slopes with olive trees in a matter of minutes.

In the North West of the region you will find the Ardeche plateau, a remote region far from the beaten track, with an average altitude of 1100m. This upland crystalline plateau is punctuated by more recent volcanic activity forming a landscape of domes, known as Sucs, of which, Mont Mézenc at 1754m, is the highest. Many volcanic features can be found all over Ardeche, with one of the most impressive being the perfectly circular Lake Issarles. 

A number of gorges and deep valleys have cut down through the Ardeche plateau creating secluded and wild areas with tumbling streams and dramatic waterfalls. Typical picturesque villages with cobbled streets cling to the hillside or sit perched on rocky outcrops. The evidence of man’s activity is everywhere, with ancient agricultural terraces climbing steeply up the valley slopes. Many are now abandoned, along with a host of desolate hamlets. Dating back further, Ardeche has a number of roman churches, hundreds of megalithic sites and, not forgetting, the world famous caverns hosting numerous cave paintings and engravings dating back as far as 31000 years.

For a taste of the wild, rugged nature of Ardeche, you shouldn’t look any further than the Tanargue. This dramatic upland area is shaped by the powerful summer sun and the violent storms of late autumn. Secluded gorges, fine ridges and great panoramic views make for some great walks.  

In the south east, the world famous Ardeche gorge is as impressive for its remarkable underground caverns, as it is for its impressive 25km gorge that cuts its way back and forth through the limestone plateau. Classified as a nature reserve, the area is a must see for all those visiting the Ardeche.  

Ardeche recipes are flavoured with the natural plants which cover its slopes. Specialities of the region include chestnuts, whose trees cover much of the valleys in the area, and wild myrtille, which is a variety of sweet blueberry, and can be enjoyed fresh or used in a wide variety of delicious recipes. In addition there are a number of different goats’ cheeses, red wine including the cote du rhone and cote du Vivarais, and cold cured meats, including saucisson of the highest quality, famed for its flavour and for melting in the mouth.

Guided walking Holiday: Ardeche - Walks on the wild side