32 kilometres of spectacular gorges in the heart of southern Ardèche! That is what lovers of grandiose landscapes can admire between Vallon-Pont-d'Arc and Saint-Martin-d'Ardèche... It took more than a hundred million years for the waters of the famous Ardèche river to have hollowed out this deep canyon. The result is astonishing: an immense defile of limestone cliffs which can reach heights of 300 metres high, where the natural wilderness remains unspoilt...
The gateway to the gorges, the famous natural arch of the Pont d'Arc, is the ideal point of departure for making a descent of the Ardèche river by canoe-kayak. Many routes, ranging from the mini-descent of 8 kilometres to the long descent of 32 kilometres, are possible over one, two or three days. Heaven for canoeists and kayakers! Those looking for peace and tranquillity, however, should avoid going there in July and August, when the area is much visited by holidaymakers. At the foot of the Pont d'Arc, pleasant sandy beaches encourage lounging and bathing.
Leaving from the Vallon-Pont-d'Arc, you can explore the Ardèche gorges' superb tourist trail, dotted with impressive, landscaped belvederes. There are splendid, incredible views to admire from the Serre de Tourre, the Cathédrale, the Balcon des Templiers or the Ranc-Pointu belvederes.
Listed as a Nature Reserve, the Ardèche gorges are dotted with signposted walks and are also suitable for rambling. A marvellous, immediate way to enjoy the beauty of nature in Ardèche!
