He puts his paw on your backpack as soon as you set it down. He wags his tail as soon as he hears "walk." And you absolutely don't want to leave without him. Good news: in the Ardèche, he's welcome.

Where to put your bowl for a few nights?

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Photo, © halfpoint

No need to make a big deal about finding accommodations where your dog is welcome. In Ardèche, many lodges, campsites, hotels, and guesthouses open their doors to the whole family, furry friends included. Some even have a cozy little corner for them, complete with a bowl, rug, and a smile from the owner. Whether you prefer a hammock in the shade or a chalet in the forest, there's always a roof over your head for the two of you.

Finding our cozy nest

Activities

Vacation doesn't necessarily mean kennels or compromise. In Ardèche, your dog is welcome in more places than you might imagine. Swimming, walks, restaurants, museums, canoeing... enough to fill your days (and your paws) without frustration or separation. Here are our ideas for doing it all, together, and without stress.

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Photo, © Enduro

Stretch your legs

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Photo, © Clara Michard

Stroll along the trails with your family, roll in the leaves, dip your paws in a stream, and smell the thousand scents of Ardèche nature. You've come to the right place to conquer the summits with your favorite companion!

The hikes

On a walk: good reflexes

Around here, dogs are welcome everywhere on the trails.

  • Freedom is great... but on a leash, it's even better. Especially when you come across adorable sheep roaming free in the summer pastures (too tempting for some curious truffles).
  • Also remember to take water for Rex (rivers are not always in the right place at the right time).
  • 💩 And we never leave without a few bags for poop: nature is beautiful, clean, and it deserves respect.
  • If you come across a sheepdog, don't panic: it's doing its job. Stay calm and keep your dog on a leash. Click below to learn the correct approach.
Meeting a sheepdog: What to do?

Refresh your nose

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Photo, © NKobler

What's more fun than a nice swim with your beloved pooch? So you can choose your swimming spot with complete peace of mind, we've selected beaches for you whose water quality is regularly monitored and where Fido will be welcome (on a leash).

And if you're worried about the dreaded cyanobacteria, don't forget: with the right information and a few precautions, your dog will be safe.

Swimming in the Mas stream in Antraigues

Here too, you'll find a reservoir creating a pleasant little body of water just a stone's throw from the famous, characterful village of Antraigues. A large expanse of grass will welcome your daydreams, your eyes lost in a splendid basalt organ, an unalterable witness to geological time. After crossing the village (one-way crossing in summer), take the small road on your right that descends towards the tennis courts. Look out on your left: you'll see the parking area and the sports field. It's here. Swimming is not supervised, but the water quality is checked regularly in summer.

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Photo, © Steph Tripot

Swimming at Devil's Bridge

In Thueyts, the Devil's Bridge is a must-see if you're exploring the Ardèche. Imagine: a stone arch set in the heart of a volcanic landscape, with a river inviting you to swim. You can park just 100 meters away in the designated parking lot. But if you prefer to walk a little, leave your car in the village and take the path that descends under the road bridge. It runs alongside a spectacular basalt flow all the way to the river. It's beautiful, it's raw, it's unforgettable.

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Photo, © Steph Tripot

Ruoms, freshness and games by the river

Just a stone's throw from the bustling center of Ruoms, the riverbanks offer a refreshing, shaded break. Little ones will be in heaven, with a specially designed playground perfect for swimming and having a laugh.

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Photo, © EPTB Ardèche

The Pont d'Arc, the star of Ardèche swimming

It's impossible not to mention the legendary Pont d'Arc. The sandy beach stretches just beneath this natural arch. Yes, it gets crowded in the summer with canoes, but swimming here remains an incredible experience in a unique natural setting.

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Photo, © EPTB Ardèche

Chaulet Beach

Wide river arms perfect for summer. Parking, drinks, and food nearby.

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Photo, © EPTB Ardèche
Coming with my dog
Bringing my dog, © Mare Kuliasz

A canoe trip?

Canoeing with your dog is great (except in the Ardèche Gorges nature reserve, where it is prohibited). It is possible in all other sections of the river, provided you never tie your dog to the boat (too dangerous in case of capsizing).
Bring a leash for breaks, some water, and ask yourself if he's really comfortable in a boat. Sometimes the best option is a nice nap in the shade, on dry land!

Explore canoeing

Go out all together

Because you can crave culture, beautiful dishes, or unusual places without having to give up your four-legged friend, we've prepared a selection of sites, restaurants, parks, and visits that welcome well-behaved dogs. Here, we all go out together.

Refine your search

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Coming with my dog
Coming with my dog

Even more info?

If you still have questions or need advice, you can contact us or come and see us.

And then, our special guide Toutourism is there for that!
Walks, good addresses, practical advice and dog-friendly places... Everything is there to prepare for the perfect vacation, truffle in the wind.

Download the guide

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