Discover the 10 Best Hikes in Ardèche!
When you think of Ardèche, you immediately think of nature, prehistoric heritage, and breathtaking landscapes. And you’re right. Between the Chauvet Cave, the Ardèche Gorges, and the ever-present vegetation, you’re sure to recharge in this department of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. You’re also certain to get up close and personal with history, as the Parc Naturel Régional des Monts d’Ardèche is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. And what better way to explore it than on foot? Ardèche is undoubtedly a land of hiking. But perhaps you’re finding it difficult to know where to start? With this article, we’ve done the work for you. Discover our list of the best hikes in Ardèche, classified by their level of difficulty.
Easy Hiking Trails in Ardèche
Ardèche is a wonderful region to discover. Thanks to our campsite in Lussas, we witness this beauty every day. And if there’s one ideal way to explore this exceptional nature and heritage, it’s hiking. Like many, we started with easy hiking trails. We share with you those that should please you.
The Roman Camps of Lussas
Activities are not lacking outside of Ludo Camping. But if you want to discover the commune of Lussas while enjoying a hike, you should explore its Roman camps. Over the short distance of this trail (just over 5 kilometers), you will have the opportunity to encounter the Camp de César, as well as the fortifications of the Oppidum that overlooks it. And if you wish to take an extra dose of history, do not hesitate to visit the dolmens of Mias. You have a beautiful sample of activities to do in Lussas.
The Circuit of the Grotte des Estinettes
One of the best hikes in Ardèche to do with family. With its 6-kilometer length and an elevation gain of no more than 150 meters, the trail presents no major difficulties. To visit the Grotte des Estinettes, head to Balazuc and follow the marked path. As it runs alongside the Ardèche river in places, you can even treat yourself to a swim in the summer.
A Dive into Historical Heritage in Aubenas
Perhaps you’re wondering what to do in Aubenas on the weekend? We have the answer to that question with a short hike (almost 7 kilometers) with a very reasonable elevation gain (150 meters). An easy hiking trail that will offer you a beautiful view of the Ardèche plain while immersing you in its historical heritage. Along the path, you will come across dolmens and the ruins of the Tour de Ville, a fortified castle that had its heyday. Not to mention the presence of several streams on the circuit for a beautiful hike along the water.
Intermediate Level Hikes in Ardèche
For those who like to combine physical activity with discovery, let’s move on to hikes of moderate difficulty. Here, we have selected trails that showcase the fauna and flora of Ardèche, as well as its historical heritage. Not to mention their challenging side that will appeal to experienced hikers.
The Hike of the Bois de Païolive
Comme son nom l’indique, sur ce circuit de 10 kilomètres et plus de 150 mètres de dénivelé, vous plongerez au cœur du bois de Païolive, sur la commune de Vans. Idéal en été, pour une randonnée qui apportera un point de fraîcheur. Sur votre parcours, vous pourrez en prendre plein les yeux, avec l’Ermitage Saint-Eugène, la chapelle Sainte Philomène et une vue sur les gorges du Chassezac, un affluent de l’Ardèche.
The Circuit of the Gorges de la Daronne
And if, to get off the beaten path, you try to explore the gorges of the Daronne instead of the hiking trails in the Ardèche gorges? Starting from Saint-Victor, this hike will take 5 to 6 hours of your time, with a length of almost 15 kilometers and an elevation gain of 460 meters. Along the circuit, you can visit the village of Colombier-le-Vieux, the mill of Victouron, and the Vierge de Deyras. But above all, you will enjoy an unobstructed view of the Daronne at several points.
📌 Want more hiking trails in Ardèche? Discover the trails we particularly like at Ludo Camping.
The Trail of the Limestone Plateau of Gras
With all there is to see on this trail, we can say that this hike is really worth the detour. Imagine: you set off for more than 12 kilometers with an elevation gain of 200 meters; you know your departure time, but it is impossible to evaluate your return time. And for good reason. Along your path overlooking the Ardèche in places, you will encounter dolmens, a necropolis, a chapel, and the village of Vogüé and its castle (which you can visit). The icing on the cake, the Musée du Bizarre awaits you near the start or end for a real leisure moment in Lavilledieu.
The Hike of Mont Saint-Baudille
Feel like a walk in Saint-Privat? We have what you need. Even if, with its 10-kilometer length and 500-meter elevation gain, it’s not exactly a walk in the park. However, the reward at the top of Mont Saint-Baudille is really worth the detour. With its view of the Pic Saint-Loup, the Mediterranean shining on the horizon, and the Pyrenees standing in the distance, you can only appreciate this circuit.
Difficult Hiking Trails in Ardèche
Fans of demanding hikes, you’re in the right place. And if you also appreciate extraordinary views and discovering heritage while hiking, you’re going to love what we have to offer. Here are the best sporty hikes in Ardèche.
The Upper Valley of the Garnière and the Sentier du Facteur
Undoubtedly one of the most beautiful trails in the Vans region. Over the 11.5 kilometers of the circuit (with an elevation gain of almost 700 meters), you will enjoy the richness of the landscapes and heritage. Take note: a gold-bearing river, drying sheds, beehives carved into chestnut tree trunks, typical villages, etc. A treat for the eyes and the calves.
The Tour of the Cham du Cros
Starting from Laboule, this hike will allow you to explore the fauna and flora of Ardèche while crossing the Col du Merle. All on a 15-kilometer trail with an elevation gain of 950 meters. Once at the top, what a reward! An unobstructed view of the Vallon Pont d’Arc plain, the Tanargue massif, and the Beaume valley. A must-see.
The Extreme Ardèche Hike in Salavas
What better way to end our article on the best hikes in Ardèche than with the most demanding one? Don’t be fooled by its 7-kilometer length and 200-meter elevation gain. This trail in the Ardèche gorges presents very difficult passages, most of the time in the air. You will need to be in good physical shape to attempt it and, above all, not suffer from vertigo. And if you’re not tired yet, you can end your sporty day in Ardèche with a walk in Vallon Pont d’Arc, known for its natural arch and the Chauvet Cave.
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You are now ready to explore our region from end to end. But have you thought about your accommodation during your discovery of the best hikes in Ardèche? Rest assured, we will be delighted to welcome you at Ludo Camping in Lussas. All you have to do is book your hiker’s stay!