Top 10 of the most beautiful villages in the Ardèche

If you’re passionate about history, hidden lanes or authenticity, come and discover the most beautiful villages in the Ardèche. Perched in the heart of unspoilt countryside, these medieval villages have retained their charm and traditional skills, making them truly special destinations. A leading region for its landscapes and adventure lands, the Ardèche will also amaze you with its taste for tradition and the warm welcome of its inhabitants. Let yourself be seduced by its historical and cultural sites, making it a region rich in heritage!

Come and discover our top 10 most beautiful villages in the Ardèche!

1 Vallon Pont d’Arc

One of the best-known villages in the Ardèche, and surely one of the most beautiful. It is notable for its natural stone bridge over the River Ardèche. This natural wonder is very popular with tourists, who come to admire it on a canoe trip. The impressive arch is even classified as a “Grand Site de France”, and has given its name to the village.

2. Alba-la-Romaine

This village takes its name from the archaeological remains and Gallo-Roman theatre within its walls. A showcase of history, a labyrinth of cobbled streets where it’s good to get lost, Alba-la-Romaine has managed to remain dynamic by organising various events such as festivals and exhibitions to showcase its exceptional heritage. The village also boasts a museum for its archaeological site and a majestic castle renowned for its unique architecture.

3. Balazuc

If you’re a fan of the vertical, you’ll want to take a good look at the village of Balazuc. This charming hamlet perched on a cliffside overlooking the River Ardèche is considered one of the most picturesque in the département. Its rich heritage and architecture will enthral you on a superb stroll along its winding streets, interspersed with arcades and vaulted passageways. Good to know, you can also cool off after your walk on the beach at the foot of the village!

4. Antraigues-sur-Volane

Enjoy a southern walk through the heart of Antraigues, a small village full of character where life is good. Jean Ferrat was well aware of this when he decided to settle here to write, where his house has been preserved and opened to visitors. He used to say, “Que la montagne est belle” (“How beautiful the mountains are”), looking out over the young Ardèche volcanoes, which you can also admire from this perched village. There are plenty of other surprises in store in this hamlet, including a trail around the church where you can have fun looking for the heads sculpted in lava stone by the local people themselves. Can you find the 100 heads hidden in the narrow streets?

5. Labeaume

Cross the small stone bridge to discover Labeaume, a picturesque village that seems to be at one with the limestone cliffs. Over the millennia, the waters have carved out caves and formed promontories, which you can admire by visiting the Récatadou hanging gardens, former cultivated terraces that have now been preserved. You can also enjoy a magical atmosphere in this little medieval gem during the “Labeaume en musiques” music festival, which offers classical music concerts in the heart of nature.

6. Saint-Montan

Saved from neglect, this medieval village on the border with the Drôme has been restored by an association of enthusiasts. This monumental work has brought the village back to life, where you can admire the beautiful traditional stone houses, getting lost in the winding lanes, vaulted passageways and steep staircases. You won’t want to miss its charm, especially when you take advantage of the torch-lit tours of the village at nightfall or take part in the medieval-themed events.

7. Boucieu-le-Roi

The jewel of the Doux valley, this village overlooking the river has preserved its heritage and offers a wide range of events all year round. Let yourself be carried away by its atypical history as you wander through its streets, as well as by its curiosities: the church of Saint-Jean l’Évangéliste, or the Pierre Vigne museum, where this missionary priest collected many objects of faith, located in the former Seigneurial castle. In the heart of the Doux gorges, you can also enjoy a protected wilderness that you can admire on board a Vélorail, the pedal-powered carriages that run on the Train de l’Ardèche railway.

8. Ruoms

Parades of Ruoms

A little medieval nugget, Ruoms invites you to stroll around and enjoy the market, bars and local restaurants brimming with specialities. However, its shaded ramparts are home to an outstanding cultural heritage, with a number of museums, churches and art galleries to visit. Leaving the village, discover an impressive limestone gorge with a succession of roads and tunnels carved out of the rock, offering magnificent views.

9. Banne

An unusual village at the foot of the Cévennes massif, Banne has everything to pique your curiosity. Remnants of the past, 27 dolmens bear witness to the age of the village, as does the church of Saint-Pierre de Banne and its medieval castle perched on a rocky outcrop. The only intact remains of the Fort are its former stables, a gigantic space that now hosts numerous events and festivities.

10. Vogüé

At the foot of a cliff and on the banks of the River Ardèche, this village, listed as one of the most beautiful in France, invites you to daydream. Vogüé offers exceptional views over the surrounding countryside, as well as numerous heritage tours, events and exhibitions throughout the year. It’s also a great starting point for a host of outdoor activities in the Ardèche National Park.

Take advantage of your stay in the Ardèche to visit the Auvergne Rhône-Alpes region with these activities: