Provencal Authenticity and Hospitality
Ardèche 
Southern Ardèche - Gorges de l'Ardèche - Cévennes - Rhone Valley
Between the Rhône Valley and the highlands of the Cévennes, at the crossroads of Provençal and Cévennes influences, southern Ardèche enjoys a warm, dry, and particularly sunny Mediterranean climate. This region, formerly known as Bas-Vivarais, charms visitors with its unspoiled nature, exceptional heritage, and picturesque villages.
Over millennia, the Ardèche River has carved the spectacular Gorges of Ardèche, a natural canyon stretching between Vallon-Pont-d’Arc and Saint-Martin-d’Ardèche. This classified site attracts outdoor enthusiasts with activities like canoeing, climbing, and hiking. The famous Pont d’Arc, a 60-meter-high natural arch, serves as a majestic gateway to these gorges, often called the "Grand Canyon of Europe."
Water has also shaped an impressive network of caves and underground caverns in the karst massif. Among them, the Aven d'Orgnac stands out as one of the most remarkable. Classified as a "Grand Site de France," this underground masterpiece reveals enormous chambers adorned with stalactites and stalagmites. Don’t miss the Chauvet Cave 2, a faithful replica of the Chauvet Cave, a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcasing the world's oldest known cave paintings.
Southern Ardèche also stands out for its rich built heritage. Its sub-prefecture, Aubenas, is a lively town dominated by a medieval castle. Smaller towns like Viviers, a former episcopal city on the Rhône Valley, or Joyeuse, nestled in the Chassezac Valley at the foot of the Cévennes, boast architectural and historical treasures.
Picturesque villages abound. Two of them, Balazuc and Vogüé, are listed among the "Most Beautiful Villages of France." Other villages, such as Alba-la-Romaine, Saint-Montan, Labeaume, Vinezac, Banne, and Naves, hold the "Villages of Character" label, recognizing their remarkable heritage.
Southern Ardèche delights food lovers with its generous terroir. Iconic products such as chestnuts, goat cheese, honey, and AOP wines from the Côtes-du-Vivarais reflect a lifestyle deeply rooted in tradition. Local markets, bursting with color, invite you to discover these unique flavors.
Whether you’re a nature lover, history enthusiast, outdoor sports fan, or simply seeking a relaxing getaway, southern Ardèche has something for everyone. Its diverse landscapes, exceptional heritage, and warm atmosphere make it an unmissable destination in the heart of southern France.
