Gorges de l'Ardèche: A Canyon Carved by Time
Explore the dramatic Gorges de l'Ardèche: a natural canyon offering stunning views, canoeing, hiking, and diverse wildlife in southern France.
The Gorges de l'Ardèche is a breathtaking canyon stretching 30 kilometers between Vallon-Pont-d'Arc and Saint-Martin-d'Ardèche in southern France. Over millennia, the Ardèche River has carved through a limestone plateau, creating towering cliffs that reach up to 250 meters. The canyon is a protected nature reserve, home to diverse flora and fauna, including rare bird species. The geological history of the Gorges dates back millions of years when the area was covered by a vast ocean. Marine deposits accumulated, forming limestone sediments that were later uplifted by geological forces. The relentless erosion by the Ardèche River gradually sculpted the landscape into the dramatic canyon we see today. This process continues to shape the gorges, with the river still carving deeper and occasional rockfalls altering the terrain. Visitors can explore the Gorges de l'Ardèche in various ways. A scenic road winds along the canyon's edge, offering numerous viewpoints (belvédères) to admire the panoramic vistas. Canoeing or kayaking down the Ardèche River is a popular activity, allowing you to experience the gorges from a unique perspective. Hiking trails crisscross the area, providing opportunities to discover hidden caves, rapids and beaches. Several caves, such as the Grotte de la Madeleine and the Grotte de Saint-Marcel, are open to the public, showcasing the region's geological wonders.
Local tips
- Visit during the shoulder season (spring or fall) to avoid the summer crowds and enjoy pleasant weather.
- Book canoe or kayak rentals in advance, especially during peak season.
- Wear appropriate footwear for hiking, as the trails can be rocky and uneven.
- Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, especially if you plan to hike or canoe.
- Take advantage of the free shuttle service from Vallon-Pont-d'Arc to Pont d'Arc during the summer to avoid parking hassles.
A brief summary to Gorges de l'Ardèche
- Saint-Remèze, FR
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Saint-Remèze, take the bus towards Vallon-Pont-d'Arc. From the Vallon-Pont-d'Arc bus station, during the summer (June to August), a free shuttle bus takes you to the Pont d'Arc. The shuttle runs every 20 minutes during peak season. Outside of the free shuttle operating times, taxis are available from Vallon-Pont-d'Arc.
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Taxi
From Saint-Remèze, a taxi ride to the Gorges de l'Ardèche (specifically, to Vallon-Pont-d'Arc) typically takes around 12 minutes and costs approximately €30-€40. Taxi services are available in Saint-Remèze, but it is advisable to book in advance. Companies such as Taxi Evasion, Delpuech Serge and Arche Taxi operate in the area. A taxi from Saint-Remèze to Vallon Pont d'Arc is approximately 14km.
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Parking
If driving, paid parking is available near the Pont d'Arc from April 5 to September 28. Options include Parking Pont d'Arc Méandre and Parking Pont d'Arc Belvédère. Parking costs €2 per hour. A free shuttle connects the parking areas to the Pont d'Arc. Parking at the Gare Routière (bus station) in Vallon Pont d'Arc is also paid, with the first 15 minutes free.
