Vallon Pont d’Arc

Vallon-Pont-d’Arc is a charming village in the Ardèche. Its claim to fame is the Pont d’Arc, a spectacular rock arch over the River Ardèche. This iconic site marks a gateway to the Gorges de l’Ardèche, attracting canoeists and hikers alike.

Vallon-Pont-d’Arc is ideally situated at the gateway to one of France’s most beautiful tourist sites: the Ardèche Gorges Nature Reserve. In the Middle Ages, the village was built on a hill around the seigniorial castle. The ruins that remain today are the Chastelas. In the 16th century, Vallon moved permanently to the plain. Vallon is situated on an ancient route, from Nîmes to Alba la Romaine in Gallo-Roman times, and from Alès to Villeneuve-de-Berg at the time of the Wars of Religion.

Vallon-Pont-d’Arc castle

During the Wars of Religion, the Protestants destroyed the Catholic lord’s castle. A new castle was built in the new village: this is the present-day château-mairie. You can admire the renovated interior architecture dating from the 18th century. It also contains a unique collection of seven Aubusson tapestries. They illustrate the capture of Jerusalem by the Crusaders under Godfrey de Bouillon, as well as a pastoral.

The chastelas at Vallon-Pont-d’Arc

Le Chastelas de Vallon-Pont-d’Arc is an archaeological site high above the village. It offers a panoramic view of the region. This historic site bears witness to medieval occupation with the remains of an ancient fortified village. The ruins include ramparts, houses and a chapel, revealing the rich history of the region. A hike to Le Chastelas allows you to explore these remains while enjoying the surrounding natural beauty. A must for lovers of history and picturesque landscapes.

The Pont d’Arc arch

The Pont d’Arc arch was classified as a “Great Site of Community Interest” in 1991. The village guards the entrance to the Ardèche gorges and is the main tourist centre.

The Chauvet cave

This is also where you’ll find the Chauvet cave, famous for its cave paintings, which is not open to the public, but has a museum in the village. An impressive reconstruction of the Chauvet cave is well worth a visit.

Itinerary Mas de la Fontenette – Vallon Pont d’Arc

Vallon Pont d’Arc is only a quarter of an hour from Mas de la Fontenette. This Mas is a 4-star holiday cottage. Its large private heated swimming pool, boules pitch and wellness area in a 2.5-hectare park will delight you. Teleworking possible thanks to fibre-optic Internet and WiFi.