The Ardèche Gorges - Mas de la Fontenette

The Ardèche Gorges Nature Reserve

This reserve begins a 300-metre walk from your 4-star Ardèche gite, Mas de la Fontenette. It includes the Ardèche gorges and the magnificent, gigantic Pont d’Arc arch. Accessible on foot from the Mas de la Fontenette on the edge of the Gorges de l’Ardèche Nature Reserve. Several million years ago, tectonic movements raised the Ardèche river, which was once under the sea. The Chassezac and Baume rivers, which flow down from the Cévennes, feed the Ardèche. This tumultuous river has created impressive cliffs several hundred metres high. Caves and avens pierce these cliffs and lookouts. The gorges themselves are around 25km long, between Vallon Pont d’Arc and Aiguèze. They can be explored by canoe, on foot or by car along the scenic route

Canoeing down the Ardèche gorges

Depending on your level, you can choose from 3 routes: short (3 km), medium (7 km) and long (24 km). It’s an unforgettable experience. On this canoe trip down the Ardèche gorges, you’ll paddle through currents and rapids. You’ll alternate between swimming on small wild beaches, surrounded by impressive cliffs.

Walks and hikes in the gorges

A hiking trail runs along the 25 km of the gorge. It can be walked in whole or in part. There are numerous access points along the cliffs. A walk or hike in the Gorges de l’Ardèche is an unforgettable experience in a fantastic landscape. From the aerie, there are several hiking trails leading to the Pont d’Arc, the cirque de Gaud, the beach at the Rocher des Abeillères, etc.

The Gorges tourist route

After your hike, take the 29km Ardèche Gorges tourist route. It runs from Vallon Pont d’Arc to Saint Martin d’Ardèche. It also leads to Aiguèze, a magnificent village full of character. It passes by the Pont d’Arc and the Chauvet cave. A dozen secure lookouts offer spectacular, breathtaking, vertiginous views. These include Serre de Tourre, Autridge, Cros de l’Olivier, Gournier, the Cathedral, les Templiers, la Maladrerie, la Rouvière, le Ranc Pointu, etc.

You’re sure to come across some semi-wild goats along the way

Route touristique des Gorges de l'Ardèche

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The breathtaking beauty of the Ardèche gorges

In short, plunge into the heart of a breathtaking landscape. Let yourself be enchanted by the majesty of the gorges. In this natural sanctuary of exceptional beauty, time seems to stand still and magic happens at every moment.

Imagine sailing on the crystal-clear waters of the river, carving its way through rock faces sculpted by thousands of years of erosion. The sheer cliffs dress themselves proudly, offering an imposing spectacle to all those who dare to venture into this haven of wild peace.

Let yourself be charmed by the palette of colours that unfolds before your astonished eyes. The lush green of the vegetation. The deep blue of the sparkling water. The mysterious grey of the imposing rocks. Every nook and cranny of the Ardèche gorges conceals a unique and bewitching beauty. The Ardèche gorges offer a perfect harmony between wild nature and the work of time.

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker in search of adventure or a contemplative explorer in search of peace and quiet, the Ardèche gorges are sure to captivate you. Explore its steep paths. Dive into its refreshing waters. Soak up the enchanting atmosphere of this unspoilt natural gem.

The Ardèche gorges invite you to enjoy an unforgettable sensory experience. Discover a wild and unspoilt nature of timeless beauty. Let yourself be transported by the magic of this exceptional place. Create unforgettable memories in the heart of the Ardèche gorges

Frequently asked questions about the Ardèche gorges

Is it possible to walk to the Ardèche gorges from the Mas de la Fontenette?

Yes, there are several walks starting from the Mas de la Fontenette that take you along the gorges. You can enjoy splendid views from a number of viewpoints, including the Cirque de Gaud. Other walks and hikes take you directly to the bottom of the gorges. Not all the paths are signposted, but we’ll provide you with GPX tracks. Guided by your mobile phone like a GPS, it’s impossible to get lost. You’ll discover unique places of immense serenity

How were the gorges of the Ardèche carved?

The gorges were formed by a slow and continuous geological process over millions of years. They are mainly the result of hydraulic erosion. The gorges of the Ardèche are the result of a geological process of fluvial erosion that took place over very long periods. Water has slowly but surely sculpted the limestone landscape of the region to create the remarkable natural formations of today.

Can you canoe down the Ardèche in the gorges?

Yes, canoeing down the Ardèche gorges is accessible to everyone. There are a number of canoe hire companies, but we particularly recommend Aquabateaux: Aquabateaux.

Are there beavers in the Ardèche gorges?

There is a resident population of wild beavers established in the Ardèche gorges. It has also colonised many tributaries, such as the Ibie. Beavers are commonly associated with wetland environments such as rivers, lakes and marshes, where they build their dams and lodges. Gorges are characterised by steep limestone cliffs and deep gorges. The beaver has settled here despite the fact that this environment does not correspond to its typical habitat