★ 3 · last edited Aug 7, 2020
Ardèche
Contributionsversion #3created Aug 7, 2020Report this pageLatest contributions in this guideContributors to this guide
Location verified location
One of France’s top tourist destinations, Ardèche is primarily a nature destination perfect for ecotourism lovers. Between the gorges of the same name, several parks, caves (including the Chauvet Cave), stunning landscapes, and a wide range of outdoor activities, there’s plenty to explore. It also boasts beautiful medieval villages (Balazuc, Joyeuse, Vogüé...), castles, and religious sites—more than enough to see and do.
Overview of Ardèche

Key Facts
- Type of place: department.
- Location:
- Local time:
- Department code: 07.
- Bordering departments:
- Prefecture: Privas
- Sub-prefectures: Largentière, Tournon-sur-Rhône.
- Number of communes: 339.
- Population: 325,712 inhabitants (2017).
- Area: 5,529 km².
- Density: 58 inhabitants/km².
- Highest point: Borée (1,747 m).
- Lowest point: Saint-Just d'Ardèche (38 m).
- Coastline: 0 km, no maritime access.
- Highlights (rated ): Nature ; Culture ; Relaxation-holidays
- Website: https://www.ardeche-guide.com
History of Ardèche
Geography and Environment
Culture and Economy
What to See in Ardèche
One of the top tourist destinations in central France, Ardèche is above all a nature destination that will delight ecotourism enthusiasts. Between the gorges of the same name, several parks and reserves, caves (including the Chauvet Cave), beautiful landscapes with forests in places, plus a whole range of outdoor activities, the options are vast. Add to that some lovely medieval villages (Balazuc, Joyeuse, Vogüé...), a few castles, and religious buildings. In short, plenty to see and do...
What to Do in Ardèche
Climate and Weather
Ardèche offers a certain climate diversity. The northern part of the department has a temperate climate, while the south enjoys a warmer, drier Mediterranean climate in summer. Meanwhile, the (high) Ardèche plateau in the west has a harsh climate, windy and snowy in winter, with temperatures sometimes dropping to -20°C.
Getting Around
Getting There
Getting Around
Where to Stay
Where to Eat
Additional Information
- Aubenas
- Balazuc
- Boucieu-le-Roi
- Crussol Castle
- Désaignes
- Jaujac
- Joyeuse
- Croix de Bauzon
- Labeaume
- Largentière
- Peaugres
- Privas
- Saint-Montan
- Tournon-sur-Rhône
- Vals-les-Bains
- Viviers
- Vallon Pont d'Arc
- Vogüé
- Orgnac Aven
- Païolive Wood
- Ray-Pic Waterfall
- Chauvet Cave
- Saint-Marcel Cave
- Ardèche Mountains Regional Nature Park
- Mount Gerbier de Jonc