Gorges de l’Ardèche: Pont d’Arc, limestone cliffs and nature reserve
The Gorges de l’Ardèche, a limestone cut between Vallon and Saint-Marcel
The Gorges de l’Ardèche run for about twenty-five kilometres between Vallon-Pont-d’Arc and Saint-Marcel-d’Ardèche. The river has carved the limestone plateau into broad bends, sometimes below cliffs over two hundred metres high. Pont d’Arc, a natural arch opened through the rock, marks the best-known entrance to the canyon.
Pont d’Arc, viewpoints and gorge road
The tourist road follows the left bank and provides several viewpoints, including Serre de Tourre, La Madeleine and Ranc-Pointu. Each stop reads the site differently: river curve, limestone tables, dry vegetation, pebble beaches and deep shade at the foot of the cliffs.
Chauvet Cave and prehistoric traces
The area is also linked to Chauvet Cave, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its paintings, around 36,000 years old, are not visited in the original cave, but the Caverne du Pont d’Arc replica explains their importance. Caves, sinkholes and shelters recall the depth of human presence in this relief.
River, canoeing and trails
Canoe descents of the Ardèche range from a few hours to two days, depending on season, water level and chosen organisation. Trails require more attention: heat, rocky passages, protected areas and reserve regulations call for careful, respectful preparation.
Nature reserve and nearby villages
Classified as a national nature reserve since 1980, the gorges protect cliffs, holm oaks, boxwood, cliff-nesting birds, beavers and river habitats. Around the canyon, Vallon-Pont-d’Arc, Saint-Remèze, Aiguèze, Saint-Martin-d’Ardèche and villages of southern Ardèche allow a stay between water, stone and plateaus.
Bed and breakfast near the Gorges de l’Ardèche
Here is a selection of guest houses, gites and charming places to stay near the Gorges de l’Ardèche, between the Pont d’Arc, cliffs and villages, with direct access to each owner’s website.
Charming Bed and breakfast
La Grange de Mailhac
Four independent charming guest rooms in an old barn renovated in a Provencal style, open to the Mediterranean garden and pool, near the village of Barjac. Garden, Swimming pool.
Charming bed and breakfast
Le Mas d'Issoire
Four comfortable rooms in southern Ardèche, in the Mediterranean countryside, in a then abandoned hamlet. The farmhouse has now been restored in keeping with the spirit and authenticity of the place. Large garden, Dinner.
Charming Bed and breakfast
Mas de La Chadenède
Three beautiful guest rooms (two of which are duplexes) in a beautiful renovated traditional farmhouse in Lagorce, a village in the southern Ardèche, near the Ardèche gorges. Park, Table d'hôtes.
Planning your stay in the Gorges de l’Ardèche
When is the best time to stay near the Gorges de l’Ardèche?
Spring and autumn suit viewpoints, trails and villages. Summer concentrates canoe descents and requires planning for heat, visitor numbers and bookings.
Where should you choose a bed and breakfast near the Gorges de l’Ardèche?
You can stay around Vallon-Pont-d’Arc, Saint-Remèze, Saint-Martin-d’Ardèche, Aiguèze or villages of southern Ardèche, depending on whether you prefer river, plateaus or villages.
What can you do in the Gorges de l’Ardèche?
You can follow the viewpoint road, see Pont d’Arc, visit the Caverne du Pont d’Arc, canoe down the river in season or walk authorised trails.