Discover the surroundings

Ardèche at Your Feet: Your Playground

At the center of everything, away from the crowds.

The Ardèche is multifaceted. There is the Ardèche of spectacular gorges, the Ardèche of wild mountains, the Ardèche of warm stone villages and the Ardèche of refreshing rivers.

By staying at the Blue Shadow of the Fig Tree , you have the rare privilege of not having to choose. You are at the crossroads of these worlds.

Here is our selection (not exhaustive!) to explore our beautiful region according to your desires of the day.

1. Right there, very close (without taking the car)

The adventure begins at our portal. No need to go far to be amazed.

• Ailhon, Village of Character: Stroll through the narrow streets of our village, discover its Romanesque church, its gourmet restaurant... Time seems to have stood still there.

• Hiking & Walking: Whether you're a casual walker or an experienced hiker, marked trails start right from the house. Breathe, you're surrounded by nature.

2. The South: Golden Stones and White Water (15-40 min)

Heading towards the sun and the cicadas. This is the Ardèche of postcards, the one that shines.

• Listed Villages: Lose yourself in the cobbled streets of Vogüé , listed among the "Most Beautiful Villages of France", or stroll through the medieval alleyways of Balazuc overlooking the river, Labeaume…

• The Ardèche Gorges: The unmissable Pont d'Arc and canoeing are timeless classics.

• Underground: Step back in time by visiting the Chauvet 2 Cave (replica of the oldest decorated cave in the world) or the impressive Aven d'Orgnac.

3. The North & West: Coolness and Volcanoes (20-60 min)

Looking for wide open spaces and fresh air? Head for the heights.

• The Spirit of the Mountains: Climb Mont Gerbier de Jonc to see the source of the Loire, or admire the spectacular Cascade du Ray-Pic gushing forth amidst the basalt columns.

• Wild Swimming: The famous Devil's Bridge in Thueyts offers a legendary swimming setting (and a legend to discover!).

• Artists' Villages: Take a detour to Antraigues-sur-Volane , the village of Jean Ferrat, where it is pleasant to have a drink in the square while playing boules.

• Jaujac , its market, its volcano, its river.

4. Local Life: Markets and Delicacies

To experience the Ardèche is also to taste it.

• Aubenas (10 min): Its castle, its lively historic center and above all its Saturday morning market , a true local institution where producers of chestnuts, picodons and honey flock.

• Vals-les-Bains: For a Belle Époque atmosphere, its thermal baths, its casino and its renowned artisanal ice creams.

Your Hosts' Council

"Tourist guides will give you the big names, but we will give you our secret spots . Whether you're looking for a quiet river beach away from the crowds in the middle of August or the perfect spot for a midday or evening picnic, just ask us! We love sharing our Ardèche with you.

Link to the Aubenas-Vals Tourist Office website for further information

Find the "Amazed by the Ardèche" selection here