Historical and prehistoric heritage
Tracing the past
Ardèche is a treasure trove of prehistoric history. From picturesque hilltop villages to ancient castles, not forgetting the famous Chauvet cave, the birthplace of cave art, you're in for a real journey through time.
Plunge into the mysteries of the first human civilisations through the caves, discover 36,000-year-old paintings, and get carried away by the authentic atmosphere of the medieval streets. History is alive and kicking in Ardèche, echoing the timeless beauty of the surrounding landscapes. Immerse yourself in French history during your stay with us.
The Grotte Chauvet cave is a unique world heritage site
Just a 10-minute drive from Rives d'Arc, our 4* open-air hotel, discover the world's largest painted cave, Grotte Chauvet 2. A 1-hour visit in the footsteps of our ancestors, switching between light and shade, amid stalactites, stalagmites, draperies, rimstone, and remains.
Grotte Chauvet lies at the entrance to the Ardèche Gorges on a cliff in the Cirque d'Estre. To preserve the cave's riches, it is not open to visitors. However, to allow the public to discover the Grotte Chauvet, a replica has been specially created. : Grotte Chauvet 2.
This cave is only a few kilometres from the original. It's a 20-hectare exact replica of the floors, ceilings, frescoes, walls, and archaeological remains of the Grotte Chauvet.
Aven d'Orgnac, a majestic underground cave
Aven d'Orgnac is an underground cave classified as a 'Grand Site de France' that was discovered in 1935 by a French caver. It's just a stone's throw from the Ardèche Gorges in the commune of Orgnac-l'Aven. This Ardèche cave is world-famous.
Discover breathtaking scenery. Light effects have been added to intensify the magical environment. During your visit to the cave, you'll descend no fewer than 700 steps and find yourself more than 120 metres underground. Don't panic, the lift will take you back up to ground level!
Grotte de la Madeleine
Accessible via the famous Ardèche Gorges tourism route, the Grotte de la Madeleine cave boasts a wealth of natural treasures, making it one of the most beautiful in France, with grandiose spaces, stunningly shaped formations, and a unique range of colours. A lights and sounds show can be enjoyed with every visit. It certainly sets the cave apart from the rest; you'll love it!
Rated 3 stars by the Michelin guide, the beauty of the cave site has won over even the most ardent wildlife enthusiasts. It's famous for its magnificent views, particularly that of the Cathedral Rock.
Unusual information : la Grotte de la Madeleine is actually made up of two caves : the Lescure cave and the Madeleine cave.
Balazuc, one of France's most beautiful villages
Explore Balazuc, a small medieval village boasting the 'Village de Caractère' and 'Les Plus Beaux Villages de France' certifications. It's only around twenty minutes from your accommodation.
Balazuc sits on a cliff overlooking the Ardèche River, which appears to be clinging to its rock. In the heart of the village, you'll find stone houses built close together, paved lanes, arches, cobblestones, secret passageways... and lots of little boutiques.
A day in Balazuc :
- Stroll through the narrow streets
- Relax on the banks of the river and take a dip
- Head to the Romanesque church for a superb view of village's rooftops
- Peruse the night market on Tuesdays from 6pm to 8pm (July & August)
- Visit the Viel Audon hamlet
- Discover the Ardèche Museum, home to a collection of fossils that is unique in the world
