Walking in the Ardeche
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on a captivating multi-day tour through the picturesque landscapes of rural France. This immersive journey begins in the quaint village of Les Estables, where you'll experience the authentic French countryside lifestyle. Each day offers a new adventure, from exploring volcanic plateaus and ancient chapels to ascending the highest peaks and discovering local heritage sites. Enjoy delicious meals, including picnic lunches in scenic spots, and unwind in comfortable accommodations. With a perfect blend of nature, history, and culture, this tour promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of France.
Included
6 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 6 dinners (does not include drinks) – breakfasts are continental style and generally consist of croissants, breads, jams, cheese, yoghurt, coffee, tea and juices. Lunch is picnic style with meats, cheeses, breads, and often a hot dish if it has been brought to you. Dinner will consist of 3 courses which usually include some regional specialties.
vegetarian, vegan, kosher, meat
Transfers where required for each day's activities
6 nights accommodation in a 3 star hotel on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities
The hotel is a modern three star hotel a short walk from the centre of Les Estables. Fully integrated into the landscape, it is specially designed for hikers. There are 20 rooms with private bathrooms, and all rooms face south towards the valley. Wi-Fi is accessible in the hotel and rooms. Amenities include a heated indoor swimming pool, a sauna, table tennis, pool table, lounge with fireplace, self service bar, panoramic restaurant, outside boules court, garden, terrace and there is a tennis court near to the hotel. Breakfast and dinner are taken in the hotel restaurant. Wifi is available in the hotel. If you are driving, the hotel has a private car park. Your charming hosts will introduce you to their region and the visually beautiful landscapes. While your hosts and the guide speak English, the trip appeals strongly to French speaking walkers. The trip is inclusive regardless of your nationality, but please be aware that other participants may not speak English.
hotel: 6 night(s);
Guide to accompany specified activities
Use of the hotel facilities including swimming pool and recreation room
Emergency hotline
Destinations
Map
Attractions
Château de PolignacDaily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Arrival in Les Estables
- Le Puy-en-Velay - Arrival day
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Arrive in the charming village of Les Estables and settle into your hotel (or similar). Take advantage of the shuttle service from Le Puy en Velay if needed. Spend the day exploring the village and immersing yourself in the authentic French rural lifestyle. Join your hosts for a welcome drink and an arrival briefing at 6:30 PM, followed by a delightful dinner at the hotel restaurant starting at 7:30 PM.
Day 2 – Day 2: Discover the Echamps Plateau and Chapel of Soutron
Day 2: Discover the Echamps Plateau and Chapel of Soutron
- Craux Castle
- Château de Polignac
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Embark on a scenic walk across the Echamps Plateau to the Chapel of Soutron, perched atop an ancient volcano. Experience the feeling of being in a suspended world as you take in the impressive views of Les Boutières from the summit. Enjoy a delivered lunch before returning to the hotel in the afternoon for some relaxation before dinner.
Day 3 – Day 3: Ascend to Mont Mézenc
Day 3: Ascend to Mont Mézenc
- Musée Crozatier
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Take an inspiring walk to the highest point of the Ardèche and Haute-Loire regions, known as the Giant of the Cévennes. Marvel at the unique volcanic landscape and, if the weather permits, enjoy views of the Alps and the Massif Central. Carry your picnic lunch to savor near Mont Mézenc. Afterward, unwind with a swim in the hotel pool or a stroll through the village. Conclude the evening with a special slideshow about the Mézenc massif after dinner.
Day 4 – Day 4: Explore Saint-Clément
- Le Puy-en-Velay
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- Église Saint-Laurent du Puy-en-Velay
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Journey to the hilltop village of Saint-Clément, built on twelve layers of lava flow. Revel in the sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. Enjoy a delivered lunch with the option to shorten the walk and return to the hotel if desired. Back at the hotel, take advantage of the facilities before dinner.
Day 5 – Day 5: Wild River Walk and Bonnefond Spring
Day 5: Wild River Walk and Bonnefond Spring
- Henri Vinay Garden
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Embark on a walk through the wildest part of the river, taste the water from the ferruginous spring of Bonnefond, and soak your feet in the longest river in France. Carry your picnic lunch to enjoy close to the river.
Day 6 – Day 6: Heritage Walk and Chapteuil Castle
- Le Puy-en-Velay
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- Craux Castle
- Ron des Fades
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Focus on local heritage with a walk through the countryside, discovering water mills, bread ovens, 'béate' houses, and the ruins of Chapteuil Castle perched on volcanic columns. Enjoy your picnic lunch at the foot of Suc de Chapteuil. Return to the hotel earlier to shop in the village or play petanque before an evening farewell drink and dinner.
Day 7 – Day 7: Departure
- Le Puy-en-Velay - Departure day
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Conclude your trip with a hearty breakfast on Saturday morning. A departure transfer to Le Puy en Velay can be arranged (must be pre-booked and paid for locally), arriving at the station in time for the 10:30 AM train.
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