The 12 most beautiful hikes in Ardèche

You need an escape? Take a large breath of oxygen and discover the most beautiful hikes in Ardèche.

Through breathtaking landscapes and picturesque villages, the Ardèche is a territory full of surprises. Come and admire this country setting and its character villages. Hiking in Ardèche is one of the best ways to discover the department. So let yourself be guided on the Ardéchois trails and discover the secrets of this territory, so rich in contrasts.

You only have to determine your course. And to help you, here is a selection of the most beautiful hikes in Ardèche.

1. On the trails of the Gorges de l’Ardèche

This hike in Ardèche is almost the feet in the water. You walk along the river, on the pebbles and rocks. The trails are so steep and need to be at ease by moment.

Leave the day and take your picnic for a relaxing moment on the river. If you can, leave early in the morning. This will allow you to avoid the days of great heat and canoe !

2. From Vogüé to Balazuc by the old railway

Here is a hiking trail in Ardèche that will surprise you. Indeed, a large part of the trail is flat, and this is not the case of all the ardéchois trails! It is possible that this lack of disappointment disappoints some bitter hikers. But don’t worry, the return by the right bank of the Ardèche is much wilder.

In any case, the path passes through points of interest that are worth the effort to get there: the Cave of Estinettes, the old village of Balazuc, or the village of Lanas.

3. The Chirouse Volcano

Cross the Ardéchoise Forest and its quiet small hamlets. Here is a peaceful atmosphere and an odor of oak leaves. Ideal to relax, this hiking trail in Ardèche invites you to make body with nature.

Your path leads you to the Chirouse Volcano. The site today presents a vast squatter of basaltic rocks. The erosion created a top plateau at 767m. Also, you pass through pastoral areas: maybe you will have the chance to cross some sheep... But above all, think about closing the fences behind you!

4. Balazuc loop by the cornice of Coste-Labaume

Without a sporty pretension, this peaceful walk will make you discover various landscapes. After crossing a plain, you arrive at the Hameau des Louanes. Take the time to rest your legs and open your eyes wide. The return will be wandering in the small medieval streets of old Balazuc. This village is one of the most important most beautiful in France .

Remarkable views can be found throughout the course: impressive dive views of a meander of the Ardèche but also of small hamlets typical of Ardéchois.

5. The Château de Crussol and its ridges

This hike in Ardèche is superb to make with family. From the beginning, you fall on the ruins of the Château de Crussol. These majestic vestiges have kept all their charm and do not leave indifferent. Walk in the old castle that will make you travel in time.

The route takes place on the edge of the ridges with a permanent panorama and a breathtaking view of the Rhone valley and the Vercors. On the other hand, the return is done by the river, ideal for a short break!

6. The Gorges de la Sainte Baume

Much less known than the Gorges de l’Ardèche, the Gorges de la Sainte Baume are no less pleasant! The best way to discover them is undoubtedly hiking.

The departure is from Saint-Montan: one medieval city among the most beautiful in France. Then the path leads you to a troglodyte house. You can also admire a valley with limestone relief, and views of the Rhone valley and Mont Ventoux. Thanks to its multiple points of interest, this beautiful family path will suit everyone.

7. Saint-Laurent-sous-Coiron

Go from the wonderful perched village of Saint-Laurent-sous-Coiron. From the top of the viewpoint, you have a wonderful panoramic view of the plains and the Ardéchoise mountain, from Villeneuve de Berg to the Col de l’Escrinet. In addition, on your way there are educational panels that trace the geological history and life on the Coiron.

This hike in Ardèche is ideal even in summer. In fact, Saint-Laurent-sous-Coiron is located close to 500m above sea level and enjoys a refreshing and pleasant breath of air during the summer season!

8. Lake Meinettes

Here is a hike without perfect difficulties to make with family, couple and friends! The hike that is also known as the “Chacle Cheminas” allows you to discover the Lac des Meinettes and its well-appointed path that makes it the turn. You will thus have a beautiful view of the Ardéchois plateau in less than 4 hours time!

Along your path, a breathtaking panorama is offered to you. The Rhone Valley is very close. Also, you can contemplate the Alps and the Vercors. And to crown everything, it is found that the majority of the course is shaded: to make the ride even more enjoyable.

9. The Pic de Chenavari

The Pic de Chenavari is a volcanic peak from which you admire the great diversity of landscapes shaped by the volcanicism of the Coiron. In fact, from here you can enjoy an exceptional view of the Château de Rochemaure and the Rhone valley, passing through the Lavezon valley, the Baronnies, Mont Ventoux, and the Vercors.

During this hike in Ardèche, you can hear the runoff of the water: your path crosses several guets and small streams. Therefore, the path is to be avoided after heavy rains.

10. Mont Gerbier de Jonc

Monter le Mont Gerbier de Jonc is a must in Ardèche. This very short and easy hike then proposes to make the tour and its ascent.

The landscapes you encounter are diverse. After a long passage through the forest, a rather steep climb awaits you. But the view deserves it! To make the most of it, prefer a day of beautiful weather in order to get the clear view and thus even more splendid.

11. The Gorges de la Daronne

Set the course on a hike in wild Ardèche and full of adventure. The entire walk is on small paths. This is why using a map and a compass is highly recommended.

Not far from Tournon-sur-Rhône, the beautiful place makes you discover the Gorges du Doux, Duzon and Daronne. These sensitive natural spaces are absolutely to be seen. In the shade of chestnut trees and oaks by a nice summer temperature, you have to cross two guets. Depending on the season, maybe it will be necessary to deceive.

12. The Granges Trail

Finally, here is a hike in the heart of the Regional Natural Park of the Ardèche Mountains from Laboule. In short, it is the ideal place for hikes with contrasting atmospheres. Sometimes steep and splendid at the same time, this trail is superb for all the seasoned hiking enthusiasts.

At the top of the Granges Trail, you enjoy an unparalleled panoramic view of the Mont Blanc but also Mont Ventoux and Mont Lozère. Even if the return path is not always pleasant for the feet, it is undoubtedly beautiful for the eyes! Depending on the season, it is even possible that you would encounter snow.

You only have to choose what your most beautiful hike in Ardèche will be!