The Cevennes are a range of mountains in the south of France, making up part of the Massif Central. Spreading over several different departements, the Cevennes Ardeschoises are those hills and mountains of the range that are within the Ardeche region. Named after the Ardeche river that flows through the area, it is known for its outstanding natural beauty, range of different outdoor activities and picturesque hilltop villages, and the area within the Cevennes hills is certainly no different. Water sports are very popular in this part of France, as locals and visitors alike are spoiled for choice when it comes to lakes and rivers. Whether you enjoy leisurely pursuits like fishing or outdoor swimming, or prefer something a little more energetic, such as canoeing, there are plenty of sites for you to have a go.
Not only are there plenty of opportunities for taking part in outdoor activities, there are hundreds of kilometres of walking and cycling trails for safe exploration of the Cevennes Ardechoises countryside. Many of these paths are centuries old, passing between villages and hamlets, with spectacular views of the local scenery to be enjoyed en route. Older children and younger adults will enjoy a trip to Lablachere where a local centre for climbing and canyoning has been set up. The fast-flowing Ardeche River is ideal for the sport of canyoning, where participants jump into deep pools of water from rock cliffs, and by taking part in arranged trips from the Montanha centre you are guaranteed the services of an experienced guide and all necessary safety equipment.
Of course, not everyone wants to get the adrenaline flowing while on holiday, so the quiet and pretty villages of the Cevennes Ardechoises provide a much more sedate alternative to these extreme sports. Beaumont is located at the foot of one of the Cevennes mountains, making it ideal for those who find it difficult to climb up the steep paths into other villages. Home to a Romanesque church, it is at the centre of a network of seven paths connecting it to other villages in the area. This path can get quite steep, but the views are worth it. The tiny village of Joannas is perched almost 500 metres above sea level and has its own medieval castle complete with dungeons while the houses of Malarce-sur-la-Thines seem to cling to the rocky cliff where the village has been built, almost looking like they might fall into the Ardeche river below.
Looking for self catering holiday accommodation in Cevennes Ardechoises? Then below is a selection of gites in Cevennes Ardechoises and villas in Cevennes Ardechoises that can be rented direct from their owners. You can either click on each listing for further details or you can use our search engine on the left if you are looking for something in particular.
