Every year the Ardèche attracts hikers from all over the world, because it offers a well-developed network of 6,000 km of hiking trails. Of these, 600 km are Sentiers de Grande Randonnée, i.e. long-distance footpaths (abbreviation GR), 650 km are Grande Randonnée de Pays (local trails) and over 4,500 km are simple marked paths.
Hiking in the Ardèche region
Hardly any other area in France is as outstandingly suited to hiking as the Ardèche region. Every hiker finds a suitable path here. From the simple and easy stroll to the demanding mountain hike, everything is on offer that makes a hiker’s heart beat faster.
Various federations and associations constantly maintain the network of paths, which is very well signposted. Extensive maps and hiking guides are also available.
The European long-distance trail E4, which runs from Austria to Spain, also crosses the département. The popular long-distance trail GR4, which links the Mediterranean with the Atlantic through a well-kept network of trails, likewise crosses the Ardèche region. The whole GR long-distance network is well signposted and recognisable by its white-and-red markings. The local circular trails (GR de pays) are between 60 and 250 km long, link different regions in comfortable stages and are usually marked in yellow and red. Day-hike trails and walking paths, equally numerous, are recognisable by their yellow-and-white markings.
Guided hikes are offered by the SNAM (Syndicat national des accompagnateurs en montagne), the national association of mountain guides. Besides hikes, the programme also includes mountain bike tours and snowshoe walks.
Recommended tours and sights
Between Les Vans and Chandolas lies a wooded plateau called Bois de Païolive, which drops away to the Chassezac Gorge. It consists of grey limestone rich in magnesium, which has eroded into bizarre sculptures in human and animal shapes. At the edge of the plateau you can enjoy a fantastic view of an idyllically situated hermitage and of the gorge. The path continues lined with chestnut trees and holm oaks. Flowering broom overgrows the neighbouring fields.
Between Vallon Pont d’Arc and Orgnac, halfway, lies the village of Labastide-de-Virac. Labastide-de-Virac consists of many small lanes with old houses and is famous for its château built in the 14th century. The castle is open to visitors. Worth seeing is the large room furnished with antiques, which has an original Renaissance ceiling. The château houses a silk museum well worth a visit.
