Around the gite :

  • The village of Joannas with its medieval chateau housing the local auberge, the church, the chestnut orchard, the shop with its selection of local produce, the rambling paths and the local shows.
  • The signposted footpaths will lead you to the heights of the Tanargue, the Tour de Brison and as you stroll along you will be aware of our exceptional flora and fauna, unforgettable views, the chestnut orchards in all their varied colours, the vineyards, the roman roads........... We have maps and many leaflets detailing local walks, which you may use.
  • There is river swimming in the Gorges de la Baume ten minutes from the house. La Baume is a pretty river whose source is at “Rochemisole” near to the village of Loubaresse, the smallest village in the Ardèche.

Some of the villages rooted in our history:
  • Medieval Largentière, Aubenas, Les Vans
  • Balazuc, perched on a cliff beside the gorges of the Ardèche, one of the prettiest villages in France.
  • Valgorge with its sports trail
  • Joyeuse, famous for its Wednesday morning market and the ancient town centre frequented by numerous artists (painters, sculptors, potters....)
  • Labeaume with its famous classical music festival every summer(www.labeaume-festival.org)
  • If you like old stone houses we advise you to visit the Drobie valley and the villages of Beaumont, Dompnac, Ribes and St Melany

As we round each bend in the valley the Ardèche never ceases to amaze us with the wide variety of natural landscapes, Mont Gerbier de Jonc and Mezenc with the village of Borée, the heights of the Tanargue, the Pont D’arc, the Pont du Diable, the many caves which you can visit …

For those who like outdoor sports:
  • canoeing and kayaking in the gorges of the Ardèche or the Chassezac
  • climbing in the many dedicated sites
  • Alpine, Nordic or Racquette skiing at the ski stations of “Croix de Bauzon”, “la Chavade” or “Pal” 
  • Orienteering
  • caving numerous sites available
  • mountain biking, rambling…

Not to forget discovery of our way of life through visiting the provincial markets, including the summer night markets, Tasting local products such as wine, chestnuts, goats cheese, honey, traditional “caillettes” (very special meatballs seasoned with local herbs), “criques” (onion and potato cakes). Sample these local products in one of our restaurants like the auberge in the village, the auberge at Deux Aygues in the gorges of the Beaume, or for snacks, the Snack Bar of “Cham du Cros” in Rocles, the neighbouring village.

Activities for all ages and for every taste – the Ardèche has many secrets for you to discover.