Discover the charm of Saint-andeol-de-fourchades, Ardèche

As soon as it leaves Le Cheylard, the cycle route changes its scenery: the Dolce Via, with the Eyrieux as its main thread, now runs into the steep valleys of the Boutières. If today the route can be travelled by bike without effort, imagine for a moment the construction of the railway at the end of the 19th century, which is the result of a real technological feat due to the nature of the terrain. The last vestiges of this extraordinary railway past, the viaducts, tunnels, bridges and trenches, all carved out with the strength of your wrist, accompany you to Saint-Agrève. A colourful and easy walk.

The scenery changes on this side towards the north-east. The cycle route, still on greenways, gets higher and higher and every pedal stroke is a wonder. Five viaducts, two bridges and three tunnels later, the landscapes of the Boutières and the Monts d'Ardèche, with the Mont Gerbier de Jonc and the Mont Mézenc in the background, await you. A nice reward before arriving at the pass and crossing the mountain by the Nonières tunnel, the longest of the Dolce Via with its 320 metres (lit!). You can then peacefully drive the remaining 12 km to Lamastre on almost freewheels. Here, a mythical steam train awaits you for an incomparable discovery of the Gorges du Doux to Tournon-Saint-Jean and ViaRhôna.

Between narrow gorges, tunnels and viaducts, your cycling trip on the Dolce Via here follows the traces of the past. On your way, the old mills and silk weavers' workshops bear witness to the richness of the valley, which once welcomed many workers. The viewpoints on the Eyrieux are numerous and allow for beautiful contemplative pauses. Below the greenway, the calm waters of the river are an invitation to stop. Pont-de-Chervil is an ideal place for a refreshing moment halfway through the stage. You can walk further and further into the Eyrieux gorges, in the heart of an environment that sparkles with green and orange in the autumn, because here the chestnut tree is king.

Get on board the Mastrou, a genuine steam train, and follow the Doux Valley uphill to Lamastre then, all the way back, downhill to Tournon-sur-Rhône. Follow the directions to Saint-Félicien and stop at Arlebosc. 1. 12,4 km On leaving the village fork right signed up Boucieu-le-Roi. 2. 15,9 km Just before crossing the bridge of the river Doux, go straight on along the bottom valley road. 3. 21,5 km At the railway station turn left up towards the main road without crossing the river. 4. 21,9 km Follow the main road on the right side for a few kilometres. 5. 24,5 km Turn right onto the D534 towards Saint-Barthélémy-le-Plain. 6. 26.4 km As you enter Saint-Barthélémy-le-Plain, turn left onto the D238 towards Tournon-sur-Rhône7. 31.7 km Cross the bridge over the Doux to find the station on the other side.

In the heart of the Tanargue mountains, set out from the chestnut groves, the flagship Ardeche landscape. To find out all about chestnuts, come and visit the Espace Castanea in Joyeuse! P – Village Square. Follow La Grangette 7,1 km, La Croix de Bauzon 9,6 km. Opposite the signpost, take the steps on your left and head towards the glass house. 300m further on, take the path on the right that heads north. After the second ruined barn, cross the stream and walk along the right bank under the hazel trees for about 300m. Cross the stream again using the stepping stones, take two hairpin bends and then head downhill through an oak forest. A short downhill passage leads to a third crossing, followed by a slope to the south that takes you to the Pialade ridge. The trail twists through the broom to reach a slightly marked pass to the west of a large beech forest from where a sheep shed is visible. A short stretch of track leads to the Anglanier stream, which you cross. In a few zig-zags, the path crosses the Redonde plain to emerge 40m higher on a track above the Ranc des Barres. Continue on this track to Rocher des Barres.   Le Rocher des Barres - Follow Col des Langoustines 4,4 km, La Souche 8,2 km via the Tour du Tanargue GRP (long distance footpath) par le GRP tour du Tanargue (). Come back via the crest of the Tanargue. (N.B. In stormy or snowy weather, it’s better to go back the way you came!) After a short climb, cross a second plain, then a third with a more marked pass on the north side. Follow a stony track in a steep slope towards Cros de l'Aygue.   Cros de l'Aygue - Follow Laboule 6,4 km. Leave the GRP and take ( ), the DFCI (forestry wildfire prevention) track that leads to Cebeyres  Les Cebeyres - Follow Laboule 0,4 km to return to the village. This is a mountain trail and can cause orientation problems on the summits in foggy weather. In stormy or snowy weather, it’s better to go back the way you came. Please watch out for herds of sheep on the Tanargue’s summer pastures – avoid bringing your dog, or keep it on a lead.

This trail on the crest of the Tanargue plateau, which rises to over 1,300 m, offers superb views of the Ardèche mountains and beyond. P – Take the tarmac road towards Loubaresse. Just after the fire station, take the steps leading down to the left (). The path continues under the chestnut trees then across old terraces to the hamlet of Saint Martin above you.   Saint Martin - Follow Le Chalas 1,2 km, Croix de Bancillon. Go under an archway and turn right up the steps (). Take the main road on the left and cross it in front of the phone box. Take the tarmac road on the right, and cut down along the stone path to reach Le Derlay. Le Derlay - Follow Le Chalas 0,9 km, Loubaresse 8 km. The path climbs through the meadows then curves left in front of the houses and joins a tarmac road. Follow the road to the left for a few dozen metres, paying attention to the signs to leave the road by a path that heads left. It then joins the road, which you have to cross. Turn right and go up between the chestnut trees, then join a track between two walls that leads to the hamlet of Chalas. Cross the path and continue between the houses to reach the Chalas crossroads. Le Chalas - Follow La Grangette 15,8 km, La Croix de Beauzon 18,3 km. Go right of the house, cross the road and take the path opposite, between two stone walls.  The path re-emerges a little higher up the road. Go straight on and turn right onto the road. Leave the road and take the small path that goes up on the left. Follow the signs to Méjean. Méjean - Follow La Grangette 1,4 km, Loubaresse 10 km ().Continue along the ridge until you reach a track to the right. Follow it to the La Grangette hairpin bend. La Grangette - Follow Loubaresse 8,2 km by the main path that takes you to L’ Escoufour. L'Escoufour - Follow Le Chalas 3,2 km, Valgorge 5,7 km along the yellow and white marked track. When the track turns right at a right angle, leave it and take a path down to Le Ségur. Follow the signs. Le Ségur - Follow Valgorge 3,1 km. The track takes you to a stream; cross the stream and continue on the opposite side. Cross over a second stream before heading towards the fields and then to the houses in the hamlet of Chalas. Enter the small hamlet of Chalas du Haut, turn right after the first house onto the yellow and white marked path that descends between low walls. At the bottom of the descent, turn left to reach Chalas du Bas. Le Chalas - Follow Valgorge 2,2 km. Cross the road then take the steps opposite. The path goes down between two low walls then through the chestnut trees before reaching a road. Cross the road and head towards the houses before returning to the road and following it right. Leave the road by going right before the last houses and go down to Le Derlay. Le Derlay - Follow Valgorge 1,6 km. The path runs along the slope before turning right and going under some trees, then continues straight on before winding past some houses. In Valgorge, turn right on the main street and return to the start point.

A long hike from St Pierre-sur-Doux or Lalouvesc, featuring pleasant forests and panoramic crests, and reserved for experienced hikers and mountain-bikers.

Around the picturesque village of St Pierre sur Doux, a little walk featuring some fine views over the unspoilt valleys all around. Very easy trail.

A long hike from St Pierre-sur-Doux or Lalouvesc, featuring pleasant forests and panoramic crests, and reserved for experienced hikers and mountain-bikers.

The climb to the pass follows a very pretty trail through forests and pastures. From the pass, you continue up to Mount Sardier, with a magnificent view over the area. The descent passes through the isolated hamlet of Les Bauds and Nectardechois. A very pleasant hike, remarkable for its views. Topo-guide for sale 8€ in our office.

With comfortable rooms and good food guaranteed, you can just sit back and enjoy a really relaxing holiday.

Quiet, friendly, spacious and demarcated pitches, quality bathroom facilities, volleyball, football, heated pool, badminton, snack, bread baked on-site, pastries, GR hiking trail from the campsite.

In the middle of nature, between pine forests and meadows, this beautiful house enjoys an exceptional environment without any vis-à-vis. Traditional mountain house, high-end and high-quality furnishings. House on 3 levels.

In the heart of nature, close to the river and away from the village, welcome to the Chantegrenouille gîtes! A vast restored farmhouse comprising the host's secondary residence with independent and opposite entrance as well as 3 adjoining holiday houses.

In the heart of nature, close to the river and away from the village, welcome to the Chantegrenouille gîtes! A vast restored farmhouse comprising the host's secondary residence with independent and opposite entrance as well as 3 adjoining holiday houses.

For those who love the countryside and nature it is an ideal place to be for every season of the year! You will find activities throughout the seasons, there are very nice mountain bike routes or on foot from our farm. Each season has its charm. Taste all the comfort in our guest rooms classified 3 ears Gîtes de France and come to take the evening meal at our table d'hôtes. The bedroom "Fruits des Bois" with the colors of blackberries, bilberries and raspberries, is specially designed for families with a private bathroom with a shower, a toilet and a washbasin. There is one double bed (160/200) and a couch which can be changed into a single bed. Upstairs there are two single beds (90/190). Fruits des Bois means forest fruits. This room makes you want to go picking raspberries, blackberries and blueberries in the woods. View of the countryside. Possibility to make a big bed on the floor by gathering the two individual beds. Bedroom "Sève de Pin" (pine sap, when you enter in this bright bedroom you smell the pine odor. The wall on the soutern face is made of old stones, enjoy the warm mix of wood and stone. The view is on the Mount Mézenc and the Peak of the Lizieux. It has a double bed (160/200), a little private sitting area and a private bathroom with a shower, a toilet and a washbasin.

As part of the national “Mai à Vélo” event, join us for a friendly and accessible ride open to all, provided you bring your own bike. Limited places, booking required at the Pays de Lamastre Tourist Office or online.

In a friendly restaurant or on a nice terrace, Mariline and Sebastien Jacquemin welcome you to discover a tasty and authentic cuisine made with local products. Seasonal cuisine, entirely home-made and simmered with passion.

Our 180m² group chalet in the heart of the Ardèche mountain has 46 beds in 10 4-bed dorms and 3 3-bed dorms. Half-board available at the foot of the slopes and hiking trails.

The Ranchisses'inn is a friendly restaurant by the river in a beautiful stonehouse. Homemade Ardèche specialties, firewood pizzas and grill cooking... Our cuisine is made with fresh local products.

A place dedicated to the history of Le Chambon-sur-Lignon and the surrounding villages during the World War II. The memorial presents the history of the Righteous. Located in the centre of Le Chambon-sur-Lignon, it is for anyone who wants to learn more about this exceptional past. A unique Place dedicated to the History of the Righteous and the non-violent resistance during World War II. The Memorial invites you to discover the history of the Vivarais-Lignon Plateau and to understand the commitment of its habitants in a civil, spiritual and armed Resistance during the World War II. Hundreds of refugees have been hosted by the population. The Memorial offers a permanent exhibition with an interactive approach like films, animated movies, multimedia tools and a testimony room. The equipment allows a large rank of visitors, including children, to have access to a pedagogical service. Open all year long, guided tours on reservation for groups and school children.

Désaignes is over 2000 years old and was in its prime in the Middle Ages. The village is still teeming with relics: the remnants of a 12th century fortress, a 14th century château, ramparts and 3 of the 4 gateways to the village. A walk through the medieval village centre allows visitors to discover several old houses, as shown by their ancient doors and windows. The origins of the village are very ancient. It was located on a Ligurians’ trail, known as the “merchants’ route”, which connected the Rhône Valley to the Ardèche mountains. Around 600 BC, the Greeks reached Désaignes, followed later by the Romans, whose presence is confirmed by the discovery of remains such as coins, thermal baths and villas. The village flourished during the Middle Ages thanks to the development of trade, crafts and the local bourgeoisie. It became one of the largest towns in Ardèche, with nearly 4,000 inhabitants at the time of the French Revolution. The history of the commune is closely linked to the Huguenots of Vivarais. As evidence of its Protestant heritage, a temple was built in 1608 and later destroyed in 1684. A second Protestant temple was partially funded and authorised by Louis XVIII in 1822. Listed since 1972, the old village forms a remarkable medieval ensemble surrounded by fortified walls pierced by three gates. A fourth gate was destroyed in 1841 during the construction of the current road outside the ramparts. The Bourg de l’Holme gate still preserves its machicolations and a small watchtower where the lookout once stood. The Janot gate is located near a tower considered to have been an old prison, still featuring arrow slits. The third gate, to the south, is called the Four Gate (or Fornate Gate) and is decorated with the coat of arms of the Retourtour family. The castle dates from the 14th century. Its keep already existed in 1319, when Lord Odon de Retourtour wrote his will there. The tower has preserved its defensive features, including battlements, crenellations and arrow slits. A 15th-century wrought iron gate, made without welding, is listed as a historic monument. Another building, known as the “Temple of Diana”, against which the Protestant temple was later built, is probably the first fortress dating back to the 12th century. This hilly area, with a strong rural tradition, offers an ideal setting for hiking, horse riding, botanical walks and nature discovery.

Discover these dolmens and standing stones when you walk around the village of Saint-Laurent-sous-Coiron. On the educational trail (sheet 10 of the topoguide) you will discover these Celtic prehistoric curiosities: 8 Caussenard-type dolmens dating between 3300 and 1800 BC have been identified, such as the Devès de Serre dolmen from the end of the Neolithic (1800 BC) accessible by a gap of around a hundred meters from the path. At the 8th educational panel, move 100m away from the path following the panel to discover the Peyregrosse menhir (or Chante Epine) which has the particularity of being made of basalt.

Panoramic viewpoint on the Coirons massif and on the mountains of Ardèche.

It is the highest village in this area-from here you have a real birds eye view. At one time a fortified wall surrounded it, today just a few architectural elements remain including the ruins of its castle. Labeled "Village of character" since 2020. Remains of a squared structure believed to date the end of the 12th century and for sure the 13th have been excavated. The buildings' construction reached at least two floors on a basalt foundation. The old village entrance was found through an opening in one of the ramparts. The stone columns and door hanger facing south was most likely used as for pedestrian access. Its other architectural delights and beauty can be found in the village's natural landscape which is why the area offers many outdoor activities including: rock climbing (it is the site of the department's rock climbing center and school); speleology, due its famous underground network, one of the deepest in the region; its many hiking trails and equestrian centers. Villages and Cities of Character is an official label, issued by the Departmental Tourism Committee, with the aim of networking in its department all the municipalities with a remarkable architectural and landscape heritage with the aim of developing tourism.

The Tanargue massif, which culminates at almost 5,000 feet, overlooks the entire Pays Beaume-Drobie. This vast crest of granite which stands out in the landscape takes the name ‘Tanargue’ from the protohistoric era. “Taranis”, the Celtic god of the sky and thunder appeared in all his violence on “Arga”, the mountain, hence the name Tanargue, the ‘Thunder Mountain’.

Along the D4 linking Lablachère to Montselgues, admire the magnificent 180° panorama. Marking the south-eastern extremity of the vast Cévennes massif, the Vivarais Cévenol corniche is a long ridge stretching north from the Prataubérat massif towards the foothills of the southern Ardèche to the south-east, overlooking the deep valleys of the Drobie to the east and the Thines and Chassezac to the south.

Eglise Saint-André d'Ailhon is listed as a Monument Historique and a great example of a church moving from the Roman to Gothic style. Definitely worth a visit.

The village of Ailhon with its sandstone houses surrounded by maritime pines has stayed true to its roots. Highlight: the church is a fantastic example of the transition from Roman to Gothic architecture (12th/16th century). The Church :One must first stop in the centre of the square and take a look around to appreciate the harmony of its sandstone facades of identical height, dominated to the east by the church tower. The Village Square : There is a great absence from this square: the famous Sully of Ailhon. It is in 1593 that Sully had many trees planted to celebrate the conversion of Henry the IV to Catholicism, a conversion that enabled him to accede to the throne of France and bring peace to the kingdom after the religious wars. In Ardèche, three "Sullys" subsisted in the second half of the 20th century in Viviers and Dompnac and Ailhon. In his document on Ailhon, the erudite ardéchois, Albin Mazon indicated in 1898 that the tree, measuring 5.5m in circumference was hollow but still alive, perhaps because it was well watered being used as a public convenience. It lived still in the 1980s and hosted the gossip of the ladies of Ailhon or the Estramaïre, the tinsmith who came twice a year to install his brushwood, hearth and tin bath to re-tin the pots and pans of the village. In 1999, the town had to cut down the old trunk that had become dangerous, but it reconstructed it and gave it shelter ithe back of the church.

Built in Prunet in the 11th century, this priory church originally had only one apse and one nave. It was expanded in the 15th, 17th and 19th centuries, with the addition of side chapels and secondary naves. It was classed as a historic monument in 1965. Its outstanding scenery and perfect acoustics make it an ideal place for classical music and choral concerts.

Mag and his team welcome you in a family and authentic spirit to offer you colourful traditional regional dishes "made in house" which will make you discover the numerous specialities of our wonderful Ardèche. In keeping with the calendar and the seasons, we offer new dishes and lively themed evenings. A friendly atmosphere is guaranteed for both young and old! The bar is open all day. Our group menu: [Group menus](www.restaurant-chez-mag.com/groupes/les-menus-groupes/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) You can also book a 100% local picnic basket, including a sandwich made with Ardèche baguette (IGP Ardèche cured ham or AOP Picodon cheese and honey), sparkling mineral water (recyclable bottle), a seasonal fruit from Ardèche and a homemade chestnut muffin. **Booking:** * Fewer than 10 people: 24 hours in advance * More than 10 people: 48 hours in advance * More than 30 people: 1 week in advance

In a friendly restaurant or on a nice terrace, Mariline and Sebastien Jacquemin welcome you to discover a tasty and authentic cuisine made with local products. Seasonal cuisine, entirely home-made and simmered with passion.

Treat your tastebuds! Traditional hearty dishes. All our dishes are homemade including the jams we serve for breakfast. You will love the chef's exquisite Ardèche cuisine made from garden and fresh produce.

The Ranchisses'inn is a friendly restaurant by the river in a beautiful stonehouse. Homemade Ardèche specialties, firewood pizzas and grill cooking... Our cuisine is made with fresh local products.

Atypical and musical bar-restaurant in the characterful village of Chassiers. Grilled meats, salads, homemade burgers, fish, vegetarian food, organic drinks.

In this training restaurant, you will enjoy the meals prepared by the final-year students of the Largentière Catering School.

In this training restaurant, you will enjoy the meals prepared by the first-year students of the Largentière Catering School. The restaurant is open during lunch time from Tuesday to Friday.

Traditional restaurant, Ardèche products, seasonal produce. Outside catering out of season (group meals, birthdays, bank holidays, Christmas, New Year's Day).

Our eatery in the heart of a Cévennes property in Ardèche Mountains Regional Park overlooks the medieval village of Largentière. We'd love to see you in our old farmhouse oozing personality.

Maud, Olivier and Frédéric will welcome you to their charming, family-friendly establishment, featuring a green, natural setting (with an outdoor children's playground and a games room). The restaurant offers dishes prepared with fresh, seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. Nestled amidst vineyards and chestnut trees on the hills overlooking the unspoiled Coiron Valley, lies a charming country house, a delightful and unique place to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet of the countryside. Surrounded by flowers and greenery, you can fully appreciate the tranquility of the setting. The chef offers hearty, home-style cuisine. Throughout the seasons, local products are featured, reflecting a genuine commitment to supporting local producers and short supply chains. During the warmer months, enjoy a pleasant meal in our dining room with panoramic views of the valley. And in the winter, the warmth of our large fireplace will make you forget the chill of the season.

With comfortable rooms and good food guaranteed, you can just sit back and enjoy a really relaxing holiday.

This villa can sleep up to 18 in groups or families throughout the year in 5 rooms and a dorm each with a sink, shower and toilet. Nearby: lots to do at lakes, rivers and forests. For the pleasure of your eyes... The lodge is located at the foot of the Gerbier de Jonc mount, in the small village of Usclades. Nearby, you can also visit the Bourlatier farm, the Auberge de Peyrebeille, the Écomusée de Bigorre-Les-Maziaux as well as picturesque villages and thatched roofs. ...and for the pleasure of your taste buds... In the evening, the lodge offers traditional cooking and typical dishes of the area made with local products: Fin Gras du Mézenc beef, maoche, charcuterie meat, trouts, mushroom omelets, lentils, etc. Deserts featuring blueberries, raspberries and chestnuts are also on the menu!

Quiet, friendly, spacious and demarcated pitches, quality bathroom facilities, volleyball, football, heated pool, badminton, snack, bread baked on-site, pastries, GR hiking trail from the campsite.

In the middle of nature, between pine forests and meadows, this beautiful house enjoys an exceptional environment without any vis-à-vis. Traditional mountain house, high-end and high-quality furnishings. House on 3 levels.

This campsite in the heart of the Ardèche is surrounded by stunning mountains by the Vernazon River near the village and shops. Ideal for nature lovers.

Hôtel Au Parfum des Bois is a family hotel and restaurant where you can enjoy peace and quiet in the Ardèche mountain. Home cooking. We can't wait to meet you!

Located at an altitude of 1000m, 6 km from Chambon sur Lignon, in the middle of meadows and woods, on the edge of the Lignon, the Charles Marchisio holiday center offers an ideal setting for relaxation and outdoor activities and welcomes children and adults. 70 places in full board preferably (10 rooms with 6 beds, 5 rooms with 2 beds). 60 children and 10 adults for children's stays. Approvals: National Education, Youth and Sports. Home and family management: discovery of nature and the environment (educational pond). Eco-citizen approach.

La Vigne is a former boarding house renovated and transformed into a guest house big enough for 27 people. There are 5 guest-rooms big enough for 15 people and 3 flats for 2, 4 or 6 people. The house has a total of 5 guest rooms and 3 "gites". Each bedroom has a bathroom with shower and washbasin on a vanity unit and separate WC. Towel dryer radiator in each of the shower rooms. The rooms are bright and nice. Central heating. WIFI (free connection). Breakfast and "table d'hote" Evening meal on reservation. It is served in the dining room on the ground floor of the house. In the relaxation space, sofas, armchairs, books and games from the library are available for guests. Terrace with garden furniture and car-park on the premises. Shops, services, restaurants, bars and the cinema are 5 minutes away by car.

Former family pension in the heart of nature, transformed into furnished tourist accommodation and guest rooms. The cottage is on the 3rd floor. It is composed of 2 bedrooms, an equipped kitchen, a bathroom, a separate toilet and a balcony.

In the heart of nature, an ideal place to relax. 5 guest rooms with private bathrooms and toilets. 3 independent lodgings. Total accommodation capacity: 27 people, flexible according to demand. Free WIFI. Car park. Close to many leisure activities, hiking trails and all amenities, at the intersection of the Chambon sur Lignon - Tence - Saint-Agrève triangle. Looking forward to welcoming you !