Vogüé, a village full of character

Mas de la Fontenette 20/01/2025 Activities and leisure in Southern Ardèche, Activities in the Ardèche, Old villages in the Ardèche

Vogüé is a magnificent village of character in the Ardèche. Its scenic beauty and historic architecture underpin its reputation.

Listed as a Village of Character, the village of Vogüé appears to cling to the cliff.

Highlights of Vogüé, a village of character

Vogüé is a village of character in the Ardèche department of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. It is renowned for its scenic beauty, historic architecture and charming atmosphere. Here are a few highlights about Vogüé :

Medieval village: listed as one of the “Most Beautiful Villages in France”, a distinction awarded to rural villages with a rich cultural heritage and exceptional beauty. Vogüé’s narrow streets, ancient stone houses and arcades add to its medieval charm.
Château de Vogüé: an emblematic feature of the village. Built in the 12th century and remodelled in the 16th and 17th centuries, the château is a listed historic monument. Visitors can explore its large rooms and magnificent gardens and enjoy the exhibitions that often take place there.
The Ardèche River: The village overlooks the Ardèche, making it a popular spot for outdoor activities such as canoeing, kayaking and swimming.
Tourism and culture: Vogüé attracts tourists with its blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. There are quaint cafés, local craft shops and traditional events that reflect the village’s rich history. The village’s location also makes it an excellent base for exploring the Ardèche.
Hiking and nature: The surrounding area offers numerous hiking trails. They allow visitors to enjoy the splendid countryside. Discover limestone cliffs and panoramic views over the region.

Vogüé is therefore an ideal destination for those wishing to discover an authentic, unspoilt corner of France, with an incomparable wealth of historical and natural treasures.

History of Vogüé, a village with character

Its history is linked to that of its castle and its lords. It also depends on successive bridges, regularly washed away by the floods of the Ardèche. The castle dominates this privileged site. Originally built in the 12th century, it was completely rebuilt around its keep in the 15th century. Major modifications were made in the 17th century, before it was burnt down during the French Revolution and fell into ruin.

Rebuilt in the second half of the 19th century, it impresses with its 4 corner towers and mullioned windows. Now open to visitors, the château also hosts temporary art exhibitions.

Damaged during the Wars of Religion, the church was almost entirely rebuilt in 1691.

After Voguë, visit the nearby old villages of Lanas and Rochecolombe.

Other villages with character

There are 21 villages of character in the Ardèche. Nearby Vogüé is Balazuc, listed as one of the most beautiful villages in France. Don’t forget to visit Labeaume.