On this page, you'll find all the information you need to organize your walking road trip in the secret Ardèche.
Mythical journeys in the Ardèche
Organizing your trip
A tailor-made tool
Want to plot your own route? This online map is made for you: distances between each section, profiles, map printing... everything you need to sharpen your pencil and your calves before setting off. It's the ideal tool for those who love dreaming about their hike as much as walking it.
Your turnkey roaming
Not a great planner? Good news: we're one for you. Our travel service can book your accommodations, meals, and even a few surprises along the way. All you have to do is lace up your shoes, open your eyes... and enjoy.
Practical matters
Come without a car
Yes, it's true, we don't have railways in the Ardèche. But we have plenty of lovely blue buses that can take you to your starting point, and also friendly people who can give you a ride. To prepare for your arrival, click here.
Bivouac
A bivouac is a temporary, basic camp set up for a single night, from sunset until the following morning. Wild camping, on the other hand, involves setting up camp in the same place for several nights, away from traditional campsites.
Bivouacking is tolerated in the Monts d'Ardèche Regional Natural Park, however, wild camping is often prohibited by municipal decree in most of the Park's municipalities. To find out more, it's this way.
Water, your best ally
In Ardèche, the rivers are beautiful... but not always drinkable. When traveling, it's best to plan ahead: some villages don't have accessible fountains, and natural watering holes aren't always listed. We recommend:
- Fill your water bottles as soon as you can (bar, cemetery, town hall, accommodation, etc.)
- Plan on at least 2 liters of water per person per day, more in the middle of summer
- Avoid relying on springs or streams if you don't have purification tablets.
- Ask the locals. Often the best information comes from a friendly local.
Prepare your picnics
For a light snack or an al fresco dinner, you'll need to stock up on supplies. If you arrive at the Aubenas bus station, no problem: you can take the opportunity to stock up at one of the nearby supermarkets. If you'd like to discover our wonderful local products (yes, we're very proud of them!), head to one of the specialty shops . And in some villages, you'll find charming, typical bistro-grocery stores, just the way we like them. (Often a chance to have a coffee at the counter and get some insider tips!)
Finish in beauté
After the steep trails and the miles covered, it's time to relax! In Vals-les-Bains, at the Sequoia Redwood spa , legs loosen up, shoulders relax… and the thermal water does the rest. Hammam, whirlpool bath, massage… It's not a reward, it's a given.
