The Ardèche, the perfect spot for adrenaline fans

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A destination that rhymes with sensations. The Ardèche is a department in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. Its name comes from a river that runs through the area. However, there is a huge contrast between the north and the south of the Ardèche: the soil, climate, vegetation and landscapes have nothing to do with each other. The north is rather wet and green, while the south is rather chalky and dry, with Mediterranean vegetation.

The department is home to large forests: more than 45% of the land is covered by forests, making it an attractive spot for mountain bikers. The hiking trails are surrounded by lush vegetation and beautiful, colourful flowers. One of the most popular routes starts in Lalouvesc and ends in the Rhone valley. 130 km of trails with routes marked in blue, red or black, similar to the evaluation of ski runs.

Downhill bike Ardèche

There are also many routes of all levels that attract climbers from all over the world. There are also many via ferrata (or via corda) hikes that offer breathtaking views of the entire region. On the upper part of the Ardèche valley, the Pont du Diable site is an exceptional natural site. Between the Chaussée des Géants (basaltic organs of volcanic flow) and the granite gorges of the Ardèche river, the via ferrata offers a real "Nature" immersion. It is also one of the most beautiful bathing spots in the area... take note!

Via Ferrata in Ardèche

The Gorges du Doux bike-rail is an absolute delight for canyoning fans, as it allows them to experience nature at its most intimate. Hire the services of a canyoning instructor for the day; he will show you hidden wonders and tell you many anecdotes about the region and its history. There are several canyoning spots in the Ardèche, such as the Gorges de la Bourges, located near the Ray Pic waterfall, which is ideal for a sporting and technical discovery of this outdoor activity.

Canyoning - Ardèche

The Ardeche contains 7 spectacular caves dotted with brightly coloured touches and natural formations. The Parc Aquatique du Lac in Devesset has an inflatable slide, trampoline and climbing wall, making it a great spot for families.

A great opportunity to try bungee jumping for an adrenaline rush you'll remember. From the Recoumène Viaduct (65m) near Le Puy en Velay to the Saint Paul Le Jeune Viaduct (37m) 20km from Vallon Pont d'Arc, you have the choice of a jump with a panoramic view over the region.

Bungee jumping

We also recommendclimbing in the Ardèche gorges on a long route. Day trips on long routes take you up a wall of several lengths (about 200m high) on the limestone of the Ardèche gorges or the granite of the Ardèche mountains. The vertical aerial hike at 1200m, which overlooks the Besorgue valley, offers a prodigious view. The compact and grippy rocks make the ascent easy and the activity accessible to all.

Giant abseiling of 180 metres in the Gorges de l'Ardèche

The Ardèche is a huge and inexhaustible playground for adrenaline fans. There is a plethora of activities to suit all levels and experience. You are bound to find something to satisfy your thirst for thrills. And if you're looking for other ideas for activities beyond the outdoors, check out this excellent article on other things to do in the Ardèche.