Explore the cultural and heritage riches of the Ardèche
Les Rives d'Arc offers the perfect location. You're just a stone's throw from the historical and prehistoric treasures of the Gorges de l'Ardèche region, the starting point for trails to the breathtaking cliffs, and just a few minutes from villages with the 'Villages de caractère' label.
Multifaceted landscapes
The Cirque de Gens nature reserve: a breathtaking panorama
Check out the Cirque de Gens, a natural site dating back millions of years, carved out of the limestone cliffs next to the Ardèche River. Stop off at this site that stands out for its sheer cliffs with the scent of the Mediterranean and complete peace and quiet.
Here are a few ideas for exploring Cirque de Gens:
- Admire the view from the top of the cliffs, starting from Chauzon then Cirque de Gens, on the other side after the bridge over the Ardèche.
- Canoe down to Ruoms
- Relax on the banks of the site
- Hike along the signposted path and explore the site on foot along the cliffs. A round route starting from Ruoms: 7 km / 2.5 hrs / yellow and white markings.
Our favourite picturesque villages
Fancy a stroll through some listed villages? Here is a selection of villages not to be missed during your stay:
- Vogüé : Just 30 minutes from Les Rives d'Arc, discover Vogüé, one of France's most beautiful villages. Vogüé is a small village set against a cliff on the banks of the Ardèche River. The castle of the Lords of Vogüé watches over the village, with its flower-filled streets, warm-coloured medieval houses, and stone arcades.
- Balazuc : Explore Balazuc, a small medieval village boasting the 'Village de Caractère' and 'Les Plus Beaux Villages de France' certifications. Discover a village centre that exudes authenticity : Stone houses built close together, paved lanes, arches, cobblestones, secret passageways... and lots of little boutiques.
- Labeaume : In the heart of the Labeaume Gorges, discover the small village of Labeaume, surrounded by limestone cliffs dating back several thousand years. This charming village nestled along the river is home to pebbled houses huddled together on narrow cobblestone lanes full of secrets.
The treasures of the Ardèche
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!
The Madeleine cave: one of the most beautiful in France
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.
