Camping Le Moulin du Luech at Peyremale: Activities and Discoveries

A walk “by stone and wood”, through time, past ancient vestiges and ancestral know-how. Go uphill on the road and past Meyrannes school. At the bridge over Montagnac gully, continue straight ahead, then fork right. A path starts between the houses at the top of the village. A steep path leads you quickly to Montgrillet, which it enters through an olive grove. Go past the disused quarry above a large lime-kiln. Your footpath climbs on the right to a  dry-stone hut. Continue going uphill to Montgrillet on the same path between two walls, which cuts through an oak grove. Turn left towards La Font-de-Bourboul on a path that is paved to begin with. Retrace your steps, walk alongside the Bourboul brook and then climb the wooden steps. Go uphill and turn right onto your original outbound path.

This trail gives you access to panoramic viewpoints on its mountain ridges, as you follow in the footsteps of the men and women who left their imprint on the schist. A few clarifications:• As you leave the car park, turn right and continue on the road for 150 metres, then go left towards Mas de la Tourette / La Borie.• After Marker 4, take the path that goes uphill on the right. Be careful, some sections are slippery.• At the road, continue left to the hamlet. Then take the path on the right. • At the junction of paths, continue right. • Turn right towards the castle (there-and-back) to reach Markers 6, 7, 8.• Return to the car park on the path.   

A short walk to do with the family starting from the hamlet of Chadouillet in the town of Saint-André-de-Cruzières. P – From the Place du Planet, go to the signpost for Chadouillet. Chadouillet - Follow Les Courpatières 1,3 km ().Take the first left on the Chanisse path. Continue on the small tarmac road that becomes a track. Cross the bridge and follow the path bordered by low walls. Les Courpatières - Follow Carissoules 0,5km. Take the path on the right, then on the left to go down through the oak trees towards the Cotepatière resurgence. When you reach the river bed, follow it for a few metres on the left, then go up a path on the right. Carissoules - Follow Chadouillet 0,9km. Turn right onto the path from which you can see the bell tower of Saint-André-de-Cruzières, and return to the starting point

This beautiful hike takes you on the interpretive path of Naves, a typical village, to discover landscapes and the link between geological and human history. From the cemetery parking lot, the path starts on the right and climbs towards the Serre du Cocu (cuckold ridge) where a first stop will allow you to enjoy the Naves Cirques, and where you will find the first interpretive board about Jurassic limestone and marl. Continue on the path up to the reservoir above the cemetery. A new board is waiting for you. Continue on the path along the side of the Serre du Cocu. (new board on the Serre de Barre) up to a pass from which the view on the Chassezac Valley is stunning. At the crossways, turn right up to the Alauzas road where you will find stops 5 and 6, presenting the Orcières Fault and a stratigraphic cross-section. Follow the tarmacked road on your left up to the hamlet. On your way, admire the gorgeous chesnut grove (stop 7). At the hamlet, take the path on your left. Carry on straight ahead. Stop 8 is about terraces and water management on the slope. The path goes downhill towards Naves, first through a chesnut grove, then in a coniferous undergrowth. Lower, those plants give way to maquis (stop 9). After stop 10, devoted to karst, the path goes out of the woods onto an overhang above the Bourdaric Brook (be very cautious!). Continue leisurely your way down towards Naves (stop 11), while enjoying the sights on the village and Southern Ardèche. Take some time to tour Naves, a pleasant typical village with authentic narrow streets, then take the tarmacked road again down to the cemetery parking lot, your starting point.

The walk takes you to the centre of the old village using the former Royal road, which was once the only track from Chamborigaud to Saint German-de-Calberte. This walk has eleven numbered information panels.

Petite boucle autour du Luech dans une zone de faille entre schiste et granit, riche en minerais, près d'anciens sites miniers. Take the road for 1.5 km after the retirement home (maison de retraite).  At the fork, take the lower road, below Polimies, at the foot of La Fare mountain. Walk past 3 cypresses – trees traditionally planted in Cevenol cemeteries – then past a burned-down chestnut grove taken over by broom bushes. Cross the bridge over the Dreiléirède. After the bridge over the Rieutort, take the path that goes uphill to Soleyrols. In Soleyrols, at the fountain, follow the road on the left to the end, then take the narrow tarred lane below, go down a few steps, and walk past former orchards towards the torrent. Cross the Luech at the gué (ford). The path goes uphill in a steep and narrow valley between a low wall and, on the valley side, some standing stones. Use the ford to cross the Villaret and take the track that runs downstream along the Luech. The track joins up with the road to Castagnols. Go downhill for 1.2 km before taking the small path on the left into the undergrowth of a chestnut grove. Near the riverbanks of the Luech, there is an area maintained and fitted out for bathers. After crossing La Planche bridge, take the path on the left that goes back up to Vialas.

The enchanting Bois de Païolive is one of the Ardeche’s strangest curiosities. This ancient oak forest of exceptional heritage value with its landscape and biodiversity is a natural labyrinth.  P – From Les Clairières car park, follow the green signs.     Les Clairières car park - Follow the sign to Circuit de la Vierge 0,1 km.

Immerse yourself in the lower Cévennes, between sweet-chestnut groves and maquis scrubland, as you explore the Galeizon valley and the plains of Languedoc. From the car park, go downhill on the road. A few metres after the first bend, turn left and go downhill on a path to reach the road to Peyraube. At the reservoir, go downhill on the road and take the track on the left before entering Peyraube. Continue on this track and pass in front of Les Pièces. Before Les Combes, at the sign for Le Flaquier, take the path on the left towards Les Cabassettes. Go uphill into the chestnut grove, walk in front of Le Flaquier to the second ruin and continue on the path to join up with a track. Turn left onto this track to reach the D 632 road. Turn left onto the road and continue to its crossroads with the D 32. Turn right onto the D 32 for 400 m, then take the path on the left to climb to the Col des Cabassettes pass. At the pass, take the path on the left that leads you through the Roc Troué (notched rock), past the dolmen of the same name and to the D 32. Take the lane towards Peyraube to return to the car park.

You can see the Divols and Abrits dolmens on this circuit that’s accessible for the whole family. P – From the car park, head towards the sign Les Mourgues. Les Mourgues - Follow Coste de Boucher () 1,6 km. Coste de Boucher - Follow Les Divols 1,1 km. Les Divols - Follow Les Mourgues 1,4 km.

Quittez l’agitation de la route nationale pour plonger dans la quiétude d’un ravin rafraîchissant. Lorsque vous sortirez du labyrinthe de terrasses, laissez vous guider par une voie ferrée rendue à son évolution naturelle. Le sentier descend vers un petit cours d’eau avant de le franchir par une passerelle. La remontée se fait dans les anciennes terrasses et rejoint l’ancien chemin de fer départemental (CFD). Le parcours se poursuit sur le tracé du CFD et emprunte le viaduc. Après le dernier point d’interprétation, le sentier bifurque sur un chemin plus étroit pour redescendre vers le Pont de Champernal.

To stay at the Seigneurie de Naves, is to find a place of peace and charm. You are guaranteed the time to step back, relax and enjoy a different pace of life away from everyday stresses. Located on a rocky spur, Naves is a quiet medieval village that is officially designated as a “Village de Caractère”. The lively town of Les Vans is located in the valley 2 km away – or just over 1 km if hiking! Located on a rocky spur, Naves is a quiet medieval village that is officially designated as a “Village de Caractère”. The lively town of Les Vans is located in the valley 2 km away – or just over 1 km if hiking. Naves has maintained its atmosphere into the 21st century thanks to the sympathetic restoration of the properties by the residents. It is a collection narrow cobbled streets that lead to village square with an 11th century church and views across the typical terrain of the southern Ardèche. Situated between two lanes, the house can be accessed by the lower road for the Blanche de Paysac and the Pitcholine rooms. From the upper road, via a lovely vaulted ceiling, you can access the Rougette and the Frantoio rooms. A particular feature is a beautiful stone spiral staircase that serves the family suite and the dining room. In the central part of the house is the Library lounge and Wellness area. At this level, under a high canopy, there is a fountain and access to all parts of the house. Then cross a small stone bridge that spans the lane, to gain access to the pool and gardens. As soon as you cross this little bridge, you will fall under the charm of this green haven of peace. You will first encounter a small covered seating area where you can to sit quietly enjoy a drink, read or just contemplate life – regardless of the vagaries of the weather. Next is a lovely arbour offering protection from the sun when the shade of the centuries-old mulberry trees is insufficient. Breakfast and dinner served here. A little further on there is the boulodrome where you can test your skills at pétanque. The best teams can compete to win an appetizer on the House! A pool of 12 x 5 m will allow you to do a few laps, relax and freshen up after your muscles have been stretched by one or the other sports activities offered in the surrounding area. For a quieter time, you can wander through the rest of the garden where over 500 carefully chosen plants delight the senses. Or merely sit a while under an olive tree and enjoy the views across the roofs of the old village to the distant horizons.

Large 18th century stone house in peaceful traditional village in southern Ardèche. Typical vaults and arches, separate entrance to guest rooms. 2 double rooms with en-suite shower room et WC. 1 family suite of 2 double bedrooms, en-suite shower room et WC. Open to guests: large living room with kitchen area (open fireplace, TV). Breakfast served on large terrace in shade of wisteria ? many specialities, wide selection of homemade preserves. Gîte for 6 people on same property. Shared swimming pool with attractive poolside area.

A former school in the village of Les Borels, La maison de l'escalade and the gîte de Païolive are located 15 minutes' walk from the river Chassezac, in the sensitive natural area of the Bois de Païolive and a stone's throw from the start of hiking and mountain biking trails. Our family-run gîte welcomes you all year round. Our establishment is Jeunesse et Sport approved. Possibility of renting by the room, several rooms or the whole gîte. Composition : - 32 beds divided into 4 rooms for 5 people and 3 rooms for 4 people. - fully equipped kitchen - large common room - full sanitary facilities - outside terrace - car park

If you like team games, strategy games or “war” games, paintball is for you! On a dedicated field, we welcome you on reservation, for a 1-hour game, where all the material and equipment will be provided.

Specialists in riding courses from 1 to 10 days and day treks with swimming in the Chassezac (1hr/2hr/1 day). Pony rides. Riding lessons from 2 to 3 hours or all day. Sports riding - dressage - obstacles - cross-country Also 1 day riding trips with a swim in het Chassezac.

Between the Cévennes and Provence, the Pierre & Vacances village of Le Rouret nestles in a spectacular natural environment that’s perfect for a revitalising holiday. It stretches over an 80-hectare estate planted with southern vegetation.

Very close to the resurgence of Font Vive, in a place benefiting from absolute calm and an ideal location, to explore South Ardèche. At Villa Font Vive, we take as much care of our guests as we do of the environment

14th century farmhouse converted into a Hotel and Restaurant. Large 180m² vaulted dining room with terrace . Diverse menus and traditional dishes.

Compact 9-hole golf course, 1282m par 29. A fast, technical course in pleasant, peaceful surroundings. Holes range from 52 to 301m. Large 280m driving range. Independent pro on site. Grill and bar on site 7/7. A fast, technical course in pleasant, peaceful surroundings. Holes range from 52 to 301 metres. Large 280 m-long driving range. Independent pro on site. Grill and bar open 7/7. in season and Tuesday to Sunday out of season.

Nicknamed the Vessel of the Cevennes because of its spectacular stone prow and unique in Europe. True gateway to the High Cevennes at the foot of Mont Lozère, it is located on the outskirts of the Cevennes National Park, which was declared a World Heritage Site in June 2011 and defies more than 10 centuries of history. Built in the 11th century to protect the Regordane Way (today's GR 700), the castle of Portes is the marriage of a medieval fortress and a Renaissance bastion. Remarkable for its rich history and its atypical architecture, unique in Europe, it is classified as a historical monument. The spur which forms an angle of 42° constitutes its originality and earns it the nickname of "vessel of the Cevennes". It offers an unobstructed view at 32 meters high on the surrounding valleys and many possibilities of hiking in the surroundings.

This structure was built using dry-stoning techniques (i.e. without binder) and was once used by the farmer to store his harvest, tidy away his tools or take shelter when a storm about to burst did not leave him enough time to return home. The builder chose to make his hut back onto a terrace, so as to economise on one wall and save space. On this sloping land, efficiency is of the essence: the farmer has to make the most of every cultivatable square metre. Terrace walls built from stones serve to create horizontal plots, remove stones from the land and prevent erosion. (B. Mathieu)

Le Montgrillet is the hillock above the village. The population of Meyrannes used to be overwhelmingly farmers, who lived on what they grew. Le Montgrillet is exposed to the sun and close to the village, and was the ideal spot for farming. Evidence for this can be seen all along the path. The grove of olive trees above the path indicates one of the crops once grown in Meyrannes, along with grapes and mulberry trees (for leaves to feed to silkworms). (B. Mathieu)  

Marker 6On the rock face you can see traces of tools, showing that the rock was hewn. Below the path, and below the draille, there are pèdes, wall foundations cut into the rock, which reveal the location of a village. The former village cannot be seen in its totality, the area’s topography having changed since the Middle Ages (rockslides, backfilling, construction of terraces for cultivating the land after the village had been built, etc.).

Marker 7The complex of buildings on the summit terrace corresponds to the castle proper. The buildings follow the shape of the rock plinth, which was hewn to provide the foundations of walls built using lime mortar. Having been built with more care than the annexes or the village, they have withstood the ravages of time better.The staircase giving access to the site, also hewn into the rock, hardly seems damaged at all. It may have been protected by wood. The square man-made holes supported wooden elements whose purpose is unknown.

Verfeuil Castle resembles typical Languedoc castra between the 10th and 15th century. Castrum is a mediaeval word for a complex that consisted of a castle and a fortified village. The castle normally had a dwelling, a tower or a keep, and a chapel. The biggest building at Verfeuil Castle was probably a dwelling, but given the lack of excavations, it is not possible to say with certainty what the buildings’ functions were. Nevertheless, the existence of an arms room and a courtyard are known from notarial acts of 1436 and 1446.

Marker 8On either side of the trail, the rock face has been hewn: we are in the inner ditch of the castle. Verfeuil’s role was above all defensive. The castle, built on a rocky spur, blends into the rock, which has been worked to ensure its defence. The only side that is not protected by the natural sheer slope has two parallel ditches cut into the schist. Beyond the outer ditch, traces of the rutted track can be seen. According to the archaeologist Michel Lorblanchet, this castle, like others, may have been built on the site of a protohistoric oppidum (a fortified habitation predating the Roman conquest).

From the 14th century onwards, Verfeuil is mentioned as being the property of the Grimoard family, one of whose members was Pope Urban V. This family also owned the castles of Grizac (Le Pont-de-Montvert) and Bellegarde (St-Privat-de-Vallongue). According to the archives, the order to dismantle Verfeuil was given by the Governor of Languedoc province in 1586, during the religious wars. The site may have been abandoned before then. Castra were frequently deserted from the 14th century onwards in favour of less steep and more comfortable sites.

Marker 1Deep ruts cut into the surface of what seems to be one of the oldest communication routes in the Cévennes. They are caused by the iron-bound wheels of animal-drawn carts wearing down the schist. The constant spacing of the ruts, about 1.45m apart; the high-up location of the track above any springs (thus avoiding the need to build bridges); and its fairly straight course confirm that this is an ancient road. There are blocks of quartz in the ruts that have resisted wear, proving that the ruts were not hewn. But it is possible that a mini-rut was deliberately cut into the rock to act as a rail, so as to prevent vehicles from swerving. To reduce the depth of the ruts, they may have been levelled with backfill.

The rutted track was probably used in the Gallo-Roman era for the extensive trade between the high and low country, and may have been used for transporting ores (lead, silver, iron, etc.) that the Romans were mining in the Cévennes. There is evidence that it was used in the Middle Ages, a period when travel expanded: sheep transhumance (migration to and from summer pastures), pilgrimages, trade, etc. Caravans of mules brought wines, salt, preserved fish and olive oil from the Mediterranean lowland to the Gévaudan, returning with grains, wood, chestnuts and cadis (a thick wool material).

The Bistrot de Malbosc offers local cuisine based on fresh local produce. Exceptional meats and traditional Ardèche recipes. All homemade! Located in the far south of the Ardèche region, on the border with the Gard, Lullia and Jérémy welcome you to their bistro, offering an incomparable view of the Monts d'Ardèche and the Cévennes, while serving local cuisine based on fresh local produce and exceptional meats.

A multi-faceted place to dine, refresh and entertain. There are different atmospheres at Le Bombyx, depending on the time of day, evening and season. An address in the making, a place to discover absolutely! You can find out more about the programme, timetable and menu on the atelier-bombyx.fr website.

The restaurant La Feuille de Chou offers home cooking, traditional, family-style cooking using produce from the four seasons. We welcome you for lunch and dinner all year round, in a friendly setting (lovely vaulted, air-conditioned room).

Dare to experience an explosion of flavors at our Trattoria. The art of Italian cuisine condensed in our fresh homemade pasta, gnocchi, pizzas, lasagne... Home-made food straight from Italy and a few words of Italian to welcome you as if you were there... Let us surprise you!

Pizzas

Join us for a culinary voyage blending Ardèche terroir, Afro-Latin accents and European influences. In an atmosphere bathed in sunshine, let yourself be enchanted by a cuisine that's bold, refined and full of surprises.

Gourmet home cooking, an unusual setting, local produce and a musical atmosphere... This is the clever blend of this henhouse restaurant... (May contain traces of ORGANIC food)... Jazz concerts on Sundays in summer!

Fresh homemade pasta, gourmet salads.

15 minutes from Les Vans in the Cévennes mountains, you'll find a river, a bar, a restaurant with local and fresh tastes, walk paths... Everything in this place invites to relax & enjoy campsite in the heart of a wild and preserved nature. Dare a complete change from the humdrum of your daily routine, unwind from the worries of competitiveness and shedules,we propose you in the deep south of Ardèche, in the Cévennes mountains, a small riverside three stars campsite with sun soaked bathing places. A haven of peace and relaxation in the heart of wild and preserved nature.We welcome you from the 15th of June to the 15th of September at 15minutes from the village of Les Vans and 45 minutes from the gorges of the Ardèche and its amazing Pont d'Arc. On our campsite you could enjoy swimming and angling, you'll also be at the startingpoint of signposted foothpaths. Feet in the water, you will be welcomed in a friendly and family atmosphere, with advice on departures hiking, bathing points not to be missed, delicious ice cream, good home cooked meals ... We offer rental pitches for tent, motorhome or caravan. We can also welcome you in tents furnished "cocoon".

Just a 10-minute drive from the small town of Les Vans, come and enjoy a stay in our carefully renovated 15th-century mas. Breathtaking views, calm and nature. Our 3 independent guest rooms will seduce you from the moment you arrive. Each of our three bedrooms has its own entrance, private terrace, bathroom and shower, 160/200 bed, silent fan, small fridge and tea and coffee making facilities. The property of almost 1 hectare makes you feel at home, and features a beautiful 10x5m infinity pool, surrounded by a lovely terrace in a quiet, secluded setting, with a breathtaking view over the plain, Mont Ventoux, the Ardèche gorges, the Vercors and sometimes even the Alps. If you'd like to stretch your knees after basking in the sun, you can enjoy our pétanque court or take the GR path up to the small hamlet of Brahic or down to Les Vans.

To stay at the Seigneurie de Naves, is to find a place of peace and charm. You are guaranteed the time to step back, relax and enjoy a different pace of life away from everyday stresses. Located on a rocky spur, Naves is a quiet medieval village that is officially designated as a “Village de Caractère”. The lively town of Les Vans is located in the valley 2 km away – or just over 1 km if hiking! Located on a rocky spur, Naves is a quiet medieval village that is officially designated as a “Village de Caractère”. The lively town of Les Vans is located in the valley 2 km away – or just over 1 km if hiking. Naves has maintained its atmosphere into the 21st century thanks to the sympathetic restoration of the properties by the residents. It is a collection narrow cobbled streets that lead to village square with an 11th century church and views across the typical terrain of the southern Ardèche. Situated between two lanes, the house can be accessed by the lower road for the Blanche de Paysac and the Pitcholine rooms. From the upper road, via a lovely vaulted ceiling, you can access the Rougette and the Frantoio rooms. A particular feature is a beautiful stone spiral staircase that serves the family suite and the dining room. In the central part of the house is the Library lounge and Wellness area. At this level, under a high canopy, there is a fountain and access to all parts of the house. Then cross a small stone bridge that spans the lane, to gain access to the pool and gardens. As soon as you cross this little bridge, you will fall under the charm of this green haven of peace. You will first encounter a small covered seating area where you can to sit quietly enjoy a drink, read or just contemplate life – regardless of the vagaries of the weather. Next is a lovely arbour offering protection from the sun when the shade of the centuries-old mulberry trees is insufficient. Breakfast and dinner served here. A little further on there is the boulodrome where you can test your skills at pétanque. The best teams can compete to win an appetizer on the House! A pool of 12 x 5 m will allow you to do a few laps, relax and freshen up after your muscles have been stretched by one or the other sports activities offered in the surrounding area. For a quieter time, you can wander through the rest of the garden where over 500 carefully chosen plants delight the senses. Or merely sit a while under an olive tree and enjoy the views across the roofs of the old village to the distant horizons.

Located in a natural setting, typical of the Les Vans area, campsite Le Pradal is the ideal accomodation for your stay in Ardèche. Pitches for tents, campers and caravans are set on shaded tarraced grounds. The campsite also has rental accomodation : mobile homes, chalets... Located in a natural setting typical of the Pays des Vans, Le Pradal campsite with a large swimming pool is the ideal establishment for your stay in the Ardèche. The customised pitches for tents, motorhomes / caravans are arranged on a shaded terraced plot. Direct access to the river (private beach) via a path (1000m) Services: swimming pool with paddling pool for children, bar and shaded terrace, playground, petanque court, games room with table football and table tennis, football, basketball, fitness area, volleyball court. A sale of farm products is offered at the campsite. Near the gorges of the river Le Chassezac, many sports activities are quickly accessible: swimming, canoeing, hiking, climbing, paragliding... Don't hesitate for your stay in the Ardèche, choose the Pradal campsite!

5 minutes' walk from the town centre. Peaceful, large private car park.

An old family farm at 1,5km from Les Vans. 2 rooms for 2 persons & a room for 4.

Le Carmel is a former convent built in 1845. It closed in 1972 and reopened as a 26-room restaurant following renovation. 3 minute walk from the centre. Le Carmel has stayed true to the charm and serenity of its initial vocation.

The holiday cottages, “Le Domaine de la Jeanne” is located on an old agricultural property of 2 ha, surrounded by olive-tree plantations and old vines. The swimming-pool is heated at 25 degrees minimum from May until the end of September which guarantee you a lovely pre and post summer season. We propose lodgings out of stone and wooden of contemporary aspect with a total capacity of 55 peoples. The cottages or gîtes are classified 3 stars, are of great comfort with one to three bedrooms which is very adaptable for couples, families, hiking or cycling clubs. Sandrine and Xavier as former restaurant owner also offer a full and half board service for groups (15 to 55 pers) and an host table during summer evenings with authentic fine meals. Located in full nature, facing southward with the Cevennes National Park nearby, La Jeanne is ideally located to enjoy outdoor activities : river, canoe, climbing, cannyoning, fishing, baths, horse riding, and obviously hiking..... We are open from early April until mid November, For a real discovery of Southern Ardèche come and visit us!

Charming bed and breakfast in the heart of the village of Les Vans Located in the heart of the sublime southern Ardèche, Madame Les Vans is a 19th century building hidden in the historic center of the village of Les Vans. Our 5 bedrooms, located on the first floor of the house, offer direct access to the swimming pool and the main garden. They offer a view of the former Vans Carmel or the rooftops of the historic village. They are all decorated and furnished in a unique way in a modern style that strives to respect the place and its history. Each room offers air conditioning, separate toilets, a walk-in shower, quality king size bed 160x200 Near the Ardèche gorges, the Pont d'Arc or the Chauvet cave, it is the ideal starting point to discover the Cévennes or the Monts d'Ardèche Regional Natural Park before enjoying the tranquility of the house by the pool...

In the fragrant peace and quiet of the Ardèche garrigue, you'll be welcomed in an old silkworm nursery, restored and enlarged to provide visitors with relaxation and comfort, right in the heart of the Bois de Païolive, a grandiose and mysterious setting. Situated 5 kms from the town of Les Vans, not far from the Chassezac Gorges, the Ermitage St Eugène and the picturesque villages of Banne and Naves, Mas de l'Espaïre offers peace and conviviality in one of its 29 rooms. Our outdoor swimming pool is heated from mid-April to early October.