To get out and about
TO SEE AND DO
Want to get out and about? There is plenty to do: active, such as canoeing, mountain biking, hiking, etc.
But this part of France also has a very rich history: experience it in the countless famous caves, villages (some of which are among the most beautiful in the country).
Are you a gourmet: get your products at the local markets or eat in one of the many restaurants in the area. And of course a wine tasting should not be missing on your list.
Want to do nothing? That is of course also possible: lounging by the pool with a glass of rosé, finally reading that book that had been waiting on the bedside table for so long, dreaming away at the beautiful view over the mountains of the Ardèche….
BARJAC
What a wonderful village we think! And that at less than a 10-minute drive from Relais de Poste. The village is located at the point where the Cévennes merge into the Vallée de la Cèze and halfway the historically important north-south link between Aubenas and Alès.
Barjac has always known a lively trade due to its location. The many markets that are held there are a reminder of that. The antiques market, which takes place twice a year (at Easter and mid-August), enjoys a certain reputation and also attracts international participants and visitors. The market extends from the market square into the narrow streets.
Barjac has many cozy (wine) bars and restaurants.
GROTTE CHAUVET
The discovery of the cave alone is spectacular. It was only in 1994 that 3 French cavers saw a few small red streaks on a rock near Vallon-Pont-d'Arc. A layman must have passed it, but these connaisseurs immediately saw that they were on to something important. And indeed: behind a rock wall that collapsed many thousands of years ago, they discovered some of the best-preserved prehistoric murals in the world.
The Chauvet cave has been found in perfect condition. Due to the collapsed rock wall, it has remained protected against all external influences and due to the high humidity of the place, the murals have never really dried up in more than 30,000 years. As the petroglyphs can be affected by the breath of visitors, it was decided to unlock the UNESCO World Heritage Site with an exact copy not far from the original cave. Here the most modern 3D techniques have been used to make a copy of the original cave. And you notice that with all your senses: the temperature, humidity and even the smells of the real cave have been perfectly recreated.
UZÈS
Less than 45 minutes by car from Relais de Poste. A beautiful city with a rich past and many sights! And what a market! In the characteristic center of the city is Place aux Herbes with a fountain in the middle surrounded by plane trees, where you can relax on one of the many terraces. A large regional market is held here every Wednesday and Saturday morning.
The Saturday market is famous and offers a variety of regional products. There are also market stalls in the streets around the center and these remain in the afternoon. This market is very busy, especially in the summer months.
PONT DU GARD
A strong example of Roman architecture that little can match. It is the most famous Roman building in France: the Pont du Gard, the iconic aqueduct in the South of France. It is the tallest aqueduct from Roman times and also one of the best preserved examples. In any case, a visit to the Pont du Gard is worthwhile when you are in the area. You get a unique insight into history.
LA ROQUE-SUR-CÈZE (CASCADES DU SAUTADET)
Built high on a rocky peak, La Roque-sur-Cèze is one of the most beautiful villages in France. From the top of the village you will have the opportunity to admire the Cascades du Sautadet and the beautiful river Cèze. This beautiful panoramic view brings an undeniable charm to this historic and preserved site. At the foot of the village, the spectacular waterfalls and rapids of the “Cascades du Sautadet” swirl. A beautiful piece of nature. A labyrinth of whimsical vortex holes, waterfalls and streams that together form the Sautadet.
CANOEING
For many, a canoe or kayak trip through the Ardèche is an unforgettable experience. With a choice of various lengths you can decide for yourself how long and how far you want to go. Many tourists see the Ardèche from above, as the Pont d'Arc can be found in countless photos, but far fewer have seen the spectacular natural beauty pass by from the water. If you go to the Ardèche, it is almost a must to have experienced it once.
BIKING
You can also discover the area by bicycle. There are cycle paths that follow the old train tracks; the Voie Verte. Of course you can also go into the mountains to release your inner mountain goat. Do not forget the Cevennes! We are happy to show you the different options.
CUISINE
With all those delicacies at your fingertips, the Ardèche is the perfect region to enjoy regional gastronomy. The list of good restaurants is therefore endless. Nevertheless, there are some above average. We are happy to share these with you and make reservations, if desired. One of the best-known regional products is chestnut. Thanks to this chestnut, residents of the Ardèche have survived periods of famine. Sabaton's marron glacé is an AOC product that is world renown. You will also find smaller businesses such as those of Michel and Martine Grange, who have been living on the produce of their chestnut trees for three generations. They like to receive tourists to share their passion for the chestnut. They use it to make flour, jams, pasta for sauces, sandwich spreads, liqueur and even soups. You can taste, buy and learn.
