Hiking in the Ardèche

Pull on your hiking boots and grab a rucksack – it’s time for a unique experience following some of the most beautiful hiking trails in the Ardèche! Set off from your campsite and explore the verdant landscapes of this wildly beautiful region: Gorges de l’Ardèche, waterfalls, hidden rivers and towering cliffs… the natural scenery is simply stunning, whichever way you look. There are so many walks and trails in the Ardèche that you can choose the path that best suits your hiking style and follow your mood!

Discover the most beautiful trails in the Ardèche

The best way to immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery of the Ardèche is to follow some of its most iconic trails. Especially as there’s something for every level! Here’s a rundown of the loveliest walks and rides for you to enjoy during your stay in the Ardèche:

• Sentier de Montoulon: a walk that takes just over an hour, starting in the centre of Privas, weaving through the town’s streets and then into the surrounding countryside. It offers spectacular views over the town and the valley. It’s relatively easy so a pleasant hike for all the family to enjoy in the Ardèche.
• Loop via the Cirque d’Estre and the Pont d’Arc: this trail follows the Ardèche river for a portion of its route, so it may be hard to resist taking a refreshing dip in the river and then enjoying a picnic on its banks. The ideal way to discover one of the region’s natural wonders during your hiking trip in the Ardèche: the celebrated Pont d’Arc.
• Route des Dragonnades: a route steeped in history, as it was originally created to allow Louis XIV’s dragoons access to the most isolated villages in the Ardèche. The Route des dragonnades hiking trail is divided into several stages and starts in Privas. It then takes you on a tour of the Ardèche’s picturesque towns such as Saint-Pierreville, Le Cheylard and its Château de la Chèze, and Saint-Christol to name but a few.
• Rock of Sampzon loop: a circuit around the town of Sampzon, which is just a stone’s throw from your 5 star campsite in the Ardèche. An intermediate level hike that requires a good level of fitness.
• View over Sampzon: hop on to your mountain bike and set off from Les Mazes near Vallon-Pont-d’Arc, and cycle from one breathtaking viewpoint to the next to admire the Gorges de l’Ardèche. A mountain bike trail in the Ardèche that is suitable for all levels, but demands a certain physical fitness.

Tips for a successful hike

Here are a few tips for a pleasant and safe trek along the Ardèche hiking trails:

• Hiking equipment: you’ll need good shoes, of course, but also make sure that your clothing doesn’t restrict your movement. Don’t forget a cap and sunglasses. To help you find your way around, take a detailed map and plenty to eat and drink.
• Safety precautions: we recommend that you tell someone you’re going hiking, and let them know the route you’ll be taking. In case your hike lasts a little longer than planned, take a headlamp to light your way after dark.
• The ideal season: spring and summer are the perfect seasons for a hike in the natural surroundings of the Ardèche. In summer, if very hot weather is forecast, set off early in the morning.

The best campsites near the hiking trails in the Ardèche.

The ideal way to fully immerse yourself in nature in the Ardèche is to stay at a campsite in the heart of the region, within easy reach of the hiking trails. Take a look at our 4 and 5 star campsites in the Ardèche:

Le Soleil Vivarais: a stunning haven of greenery stretching 14 hectares, located in the Gorges de l’Ardèche. Here, all the family will be able to enjoy their favourite campsite activities, with the swimming pool, water park with waterslides, paddling pool, whirlpool, balneotherapy facilities, children’s and teenagers’ clubs, sport, dance classes, and so on. Its 5 star rating is an indicator of the service quality that our holidaymakers can expect.

Les Jardins de Privas: a 4 star campsite near Privas, where you’ll find all the top-notch camping amenities you could hope for, including the water park with a covered, heated swimming pool, waterslides, sports pitches, trampoline, pétanque courts, ping-pong tables, and more.

Don’t delay and book your camping holiday near the hiking trails of the Ardèche now, ready to enjoy an exhilarating outdoor experience as you embrace nature and eco-minded tourist pursuits.