Due to its relief and the diversity of its natural environments, the Cévennes d'Ardèche embody a territory of raw beauty and unique identity, a true sanctuary for lovers of majestic landscapes and escape, enhanced and protected by numerous local initiatives.
The Cévennes of Ardèche, a true jewel of nature, offer a exceptional wealth landscapes. From the karst plateau to the green valleys, through the steep ridges and the bright plains, every corner invites you towonder. Hyphen between the Cévennes national park and Monts d'Ardèche Regional Natural Park, these territories present a mosaic of natural environments conducive to contemplation. Over the seasons, this precious territory reveals treasures of colors that he exhibits to the eyes of the world like paintings.
A variety of breathtaking landscapes
The Cévennes refers to the entire southern and eastern borders of the Massif Central. The collective imagination gives us an image of vast, almost desert-like expanses of rugged terrain swept by the winds. But the Cévennes also include a multitude of small, medium-altitude massifs, cut through by deep valleys that shelter picturesque villages bathed in light. The Cévennes are therefore a transition zone between the mountain and the low plains.
Le Tanargue massif is a prime example! Culminating at an altitude of 1 m, its name means “the mountain of thunder” in Celtic. Every year in mid-June, around fifteensheep farmers and their sheep climb to the peaks of Tanargue to experience the last collective summer pasture in Ardèche. This gathering marks a highlight of the pastoral life but also plays an important role in maintaining biodiversity by keeping these natural spaces open and promoting the richness of ecosystems.
You will be able to take the measure of this magnificent landscape by stopping at the Col de Meyrand viewpoint, just above the village of Loubaresse, or take the time toadmire the flora and fauna thanks to the vulture and landscape observation platform of Montselgues.
Further down, in the plain, the enchanting site du Païolive wood overlooks the impressive Chassezac Gorges. Walking on this karst plateau, covered with white oak forests, is like open-air caving. This unique ensemble is a Sensitive Natural Area (ENS); in many ways its biodiversity there is remarkable.
Without a doubt, our exceptional nature also depends on everyone's commitment to the environment for all.
5 viewpoints to feast your eyes on
Due to its relief and the diversity made up of people from different backgrounds From its natural environments, the Cévennes d'Ardèche offer numerous viewpoints majestic which invite to contemplation.
01
The Serre de Barre in Vans
The mountain belonging to the last foothills of the Cévennes, culminating at 909 m above the village of Naves and opening onto the superb meanders of the Chassezac. This place is also a superb take-off area for paragliders. From the summit, you can see the snow-capped Alps and Mont Ventoux to the east, Mont Lozère to the west as well as the Tanargue massif and the Monts d'Ardèche to the north. The massifs follow one after the other. The countless hamlets and villages scattered throughout the valley constitute a grandiose spectacle in themselves.
02
The Chassezac Gorges in the Païolive forest
From the cornice path (4 km), starting from the Estong car park, in the Païolive woods, you can admire the magnificent Chassezac Gorges. Be careful because the path is on the cliff side.
03
The Meyrand pass belvedere in Loubaresse
On the Tanargue massif, the Col de Meyrand is a gateway to the Ardéchoise Mountains. A belvedere made of 100% local chestnut wood allows you to admire a wide panorama of the Beaume valley and the village of Valgorge. On a clear day, you can even see Mont Ventoux.
04
The orientation table of the Château de Banne
Between sandstone and limestone, the village of Banne is nestled at the foot of the first foothills of the Cévennes. The oldest part of the village, Le Fort, is a tangle of cobbled streets and staircases passing under the vaults of the houses that join the ruins of the Château. From up there, the orientation table offers one of the most beautiful views of southern Ardèche.
05
The Montselgues vulture and landscape observation platform
Located near the knacker's yard, this platform, made 100% from local chestnut wood and its telescope, offers you a unique immersion as close as possible to the majestic vultures and the surrounding landscape. Educational panels will explain the inseparable link between breeding and these large gliders.
A multitude of outdoor activities
The wealth of the Cévennes d’Ardèche is displayed across a myriad of activities to practice outdoors, which delight lovers of sport, discovery and landscapes.
Hiking in the Cévennes d'Ardèche, on foot or by bike, is a unmissable experience : marked trails allow you to explore the mountains and valleys in complete peace, leading to spectacular viewpoints. The rivers that wind through the territory, such as the Chassezac, the Beaume and the Drobie, invite you to aquatic activities such as canoeing, swimming or even fishing. For lovers ofstrong emotions, canyoning in the deep valleys of Chassezac promises moments of adrenaline in the heart of grandiose landscapesPhotography enthusiasts will find what they are looking for in these exceptional panoramas, where the morning and evening light sublimates the landforms.
The varied terrain and vegetation offer breathtaking playgrounds in all seasons.
Protect to transmit better
The wealth of the Cévennes d’Ardèche is precious, and his preservation is essential. Thanks to rigorous environmental measures, this territory remains a natural setting intact.
Proof of the incredible local environmental wealth, 70% of the Cévennes d'Ardèche territory benefits from nature protection measures.
Exceptional management
- Natura 2000 sites : This European network ensures the preservation of natural habitats and rare species, emblematic of local biodiversity.
- Sensitive Natural Areas (ENS) : Managed by the department, these areas are an essential tool for safeguarding fragile ecosystems while raising public awareness.
- The Cévennes National Park : The only French national park with a human character, it promotes a unique harmony between human activities and biodiversity.
- The Monts d'Ardèche Regional Nature Park : This territory combines local traditions, sustainable development and respect for the environment.
Rekindle the stars
The Cévennes National Park was the 13th in the world to obtain the label International Starry Sky Reserve (RICE), rewarding the exceptional quality of its night sky. This distinction demonstrates the local commitment to preserving natural resources in their entirety.
