Once upon a time, there was a town without water... but with a castle, a roaring market, and a breathtaking view. Welcome to Aubenas, the historic and gourmet capital of southern Ardèche, perched like a sentinel on its rock, between a flamboyant past and a well-established art of living.
Here, the old stones tell you stories, the fountains sing their revenge, and the alleys lead you straight to a slice of fougasse... or a chestnut cream. On foot, by bike, or with your arms laden with baskets, come discover the elegant woman, the one who needs no introduction, but whom we love to rediscover.
Discover Aubenas
A castle that imposes
Impossible to miss: the majestic silhouette of Aubenas Castle overlooks the entire Ardèche Valley. A listed historical monument since 1943, it embodies several centuries of civil architecture. Between its 12th-century Romanesque keep, mullioned windows, turrets, and spiral staircase, every stone seems to have a story to tell . And believe us, they have plenty to say.
A city (almost) without water…
Aubenas is also the unofficial capital of chestnut creamThe names Sabaton and Imbert resonate here like sweet promises. Between confectionery, local sweets, local products and small restaurants that delight, the city is a real haven for curious gourmets.
And if you want to experience all this live? Head to the Saturday morning market, a colorful and fragrant institution, or on the summer night market, every Wednesday evening in July and August. Sunset, the smell of spices, music in the air: it's la dolce vita, Ardèche version.
And for those curious about the outdoors…
Although it loves to show off, Aubenas isn't just a backdrop. It's also an ideal starting point for exploring the Ardèche Gorges, the Tanargue Mountains, and the surrounding hilltop villages.
The Via Ardèche passes nearby: perfect for a family cycling trip or a picnic with friends.
And between two visits, don't forget to look up: the light here, the sky, the stone... everything invites you to slow down.
Things to see and do in Aubenas
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Photo 1, © Les Coloquintes -
Photo 2, © Les Coloquintes -
Photo 3, © Les Coloquintes -
Photo 4, © Les Coloquintes -
Photo 5, © Les Coloquintes
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Canyon de la Borne avec Cimes et Canyons
Sports activities
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Photo 1, © Cimes et Canyons -
Photo 2, © Cimes et Canyons -
Photo 3, © Cimes et Canyons -
Photo 4, © Cimes et Canyons
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Photo 1, © Dariolopresti (Canva) -
Photo 2, © Les Fous Sans Blanc
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Journées Européennes du Patrimoine 2026 : Le 18 A. – Maison des Métiers d’Arts et de la Création
Free
September 19 , 2026
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Photo 1, © City of Aubenas -
Photo 2, © City of Aubenas
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Photo 1, © Julie Pradayrol – La Ferme Aubenas -
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Parking Paix Liberté – centre-ville
Services
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Photo 1, © Otipava -
Photo 2, © Otipava -
Photo 3, © Otipava -
Photo 4, © Otipava -
Photo 5, © Otipava
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Karadance evening at the farm -
Pierre & Nature conciergerie
Services
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Photo 1, © Pierre & Nature conciergerie_Aubenas -
Photo 2, © Pierre & Nature conciergerie_Aubenas -
Photo 3, © Pierre & Nature conciergerie_Aubenas -
Photo 4, © Pierre & Nature conciergerie_Aubenas
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Photo 1, © Steph Tripot -
Aubenas Market, © OTI Aubenas-Vals. Graziélla BLANCHARD
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Photo 1, © Anne-Laure Etienne -
Photo 2, © Martin Griffin -
Photo 3, © Martin Griffin -
Photo 4, © Martin Griffin -
Photo 5, © Martin Griffin
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Photo 1, © Alice Repiquet – OTIPAVA -
Photo 2, © Alice Repiquet – OTIPAVA -
Photo 3, © Alice Repiquet – OTIPAVA -
Photo 4, © Alice Repiquet – OTIPAVA -
Photo 5, © Alice Repiquet – OTIPAVA
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Cîmes et Canyons
Providers
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Photo 1, © Cimes et Canyons -
Photo 2, © Cimes et Canyons -
Photo 3, © Cimes et Canyons -
Photo 4, © Cimes et Canyons -
Photo 5, © Cimes et Canyons
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Sleeping in Aubenas
Aire de service communale pour camping car
Motorhome service / reception area
Appartement Mas des Oliviers 2
Furnished rental and holiday cottage
Bookable online. From €85 /night.
Furnished rental and holiday cottage
Furnished rental and holiday cottage
2-star, 2-key furnished accommodation and holiday cottage
