Ardeche Itinerary
The Ardeche Scenic Drive is the perfect way to explore the stunning landscapes of the Ardeche region in France. Starting in Pont Saint Esprit and ending in Aubenas, this 84 km route takes you through some of the most beautiful areas of this area. The best time to take this drive is during the summer months, when the weather is perfect for sightseeing and the lush green landscapes are in full bloom.
Along the route, you will be able to enjoy sights such as the Vallon Pont d'Arc, where you can marvel at the stunning beauty of the Ardeche river and its surrounding cliffs. The roads are mostly in good condition and make for an enjoyable drive, although some of them can be narrow and curvy in places.
This road trip is suitable for all drivers, and you can expect to make some amazing memories and experiences along the way. It is also possible to take it on a budget, making it a great option for those looking for a more affordable way to explore the area.
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number of days
84 km
route length
fair
budget
tourist
good for
on the right
traffic direction
moderate
accident level
START
Pont Saint Esprit
Distance 84 km
Driving time 2.1 h
Pace: slow
19.4 kWh
Airports
OBS
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AVN
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Pont Saint Esprit, located in the Gard department of southern France, is an ideal starting point for the Ardeche Scenic Drive. This charming riverside town is well known for its medieval architecture, with many of its buildings and monuments dating back to the Middle Ages. Its colorful streets and alleys, lined with cafes and restaurants, offer a variety of local cuisine.
Pont Saint Esprit is home to some of the most important historical sites of the region, including the Church of Saint-Pierre, the Château de la Motte, and the Cathedral of Notre-Dame. Visitors can also explore the old city walls, the Château de la Motte, and the Roman-era amphitheatre. Pont Saint Esprit also has a vibrant culture, with many art galleries and artisanal shops.
For those travelling by air, the closest international airport is Nimes-Garons Airport (FNI), located approximately 45 minutes away by car. Car rentals are available at the airport, making it easy to begin your Ardeche Scenic Drive from Pont Saint Esprit.
No matter the time of year, Pont Saint Esprit is an ideal starting point for a road trip through the Ardeche region. With its impressive historical sites, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine, it is an ideal place to start a journey through the stunning landscape of southern France.
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Pont Saint Esprit
- Vallon Pont d'Arc
Distance 51 km
Driving time 1.5 h
Pace: slow
11.8 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on a road trip from Pont Saint Esprit to Vallon Pont d'Arc and discover the beauty of the Ardèche region! This 51km journey will take you less than two hours to complete, winding through Saint Martin d'Ardeche. Along the way, you'll see charming villages, historic sites, and stunning views of the Ardèche valley. As you drive, be sure to keep an eye out for the narrow, winding roads in some sections. You'll also find plenty of opportunities to stop and explore the area, such as the 12th century Château de Vogüé, the picturesque village of Balazuc, and the iconic Pont d'Arc natural bridge. With so much to see and do, you'll be sure to have an unforgettable experience! For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check the Itinerary of this stage.
Vallon Pont d'Arc - France - Europe - Scenic Drive - Wallpaper Flare
Vallon Pont d'Arc - France - Europe - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
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2
Vallon Pont d'Arc
- Aubenas
Distance 33 km
Driving time 0.7 h
Pace: modest
8.5 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on a scenic road trip from Vallon Pont d'Arc to Aubenas! This 33 km journey will take you less than an hour to complete. Along the way, you will pass through the picturesque towns of Ruoms and Vogue. Make sure to take the time to admire the stunning views of the countryside, as the road winds through narrow sections. Be sure to stop by the local attractions, such as the Château de Ruoms and the Château de Vogue. For further information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Aubenas - France - Europe - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
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Aubenas
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Aubenas is a small town in the south of France, located in the department of Ardèche. It is the perfect ending point for the "Ardeche Scenic Drive", a road trip through the region's beautiful countryside.
The city of Aubenas is a great place to explore, with a lot of historical and cultural attractions to visit. Start your visit at the Chateau de Vogue, a 12th century castle that once belonged to the nobility of the region. Then, explore the old city center and its cobbled streets, lined with old buildings and shops. Don't miss the Musée Municipal, where you can learn about the history of the region. The city also offers an array of outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and even skiing in the winter months.
For those coming by car, the closest international airport is Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport (LYS). It is located about 200 kilometers away, with plenty of car rental options available at the airport.
Aubenas is a great destination for those looking for a peaceful and relaxing end to their road trip. With its charming atmosphere, historical attractions, and outdoor activities, it is the perfect place to spend a few days.
Aubenas - France - Europe - Scenic Drive - www.needpix.com
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Ardeche at a glance
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Start:
Pont Saint Esprit
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End:
Aubenas
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Distance:
84 km
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Stay:
1 day
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Getting there:
Aubenas-Ardèche Méridional Airport (OBS),
Avignon-Caumont Airport (AVN)
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When to drive:
May, June, July, August, September, October
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
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