The 18 most beautiful villages in the Ardèche in 2025

1. Balazuc, perched beauty in Ardèche

Located halfway between Aubenas and Vallon-Pont-d'Arc, Balazuc is not only one of Ardèche's villages of character, but also one of France's most beautiful villages! Two well-deserved accolades for this jewel overlooking the river. A maze of winding lanes, its historic center is home to old stone houses and small craft stores. At the foot of the village, there's a long beach where you can cool off in fine weather. Want to discover other beautiful villages? We recommend our ranking of the 10 most beautiful villages in France!

2. Vallon-Pont-d'Arc, caves and canoes

Admittedly, it's not the quietest village in summer when holidaymakers come to enjoy its beaches along the Ardèche, but Vallon-Pont-d'Arc is a must-see in the département! It's here that you can start your canoe trip down the river to Saint-Martin-d'Ardèche, or visit the famous Chauvet cave. A treasure trove of Ardèche heritage, it features masterpieces of prehistoric cave art. Discover ANIMAL, the immersive show at Grotte Chauvet 2!

3. Saint-Montan, a legendary village in Ardèche

Located just north of Bourg-Saint-Andéol, Saint-Montan owes its name to the Picard hermit who took refuge here in the^5th century, after correctly predicting that a child would become a saint. In fact, the hermit, a victim of his own success, had to move to the depths of the Ardèche to isolate himself! Today, this religious imprint is still visible in the village's three churches: Saint-André-de-Mitroys, San Samonta and Sainte-Marie-Madeleine. You can also visit the fortified castle on a rocky outcrop and the restored medieval center. Want to find out more about the Ardèche? We recommend our dedicated article: The Ardèche, exceptional sites, gastronomy and autumn walks!

4. Labeaume, a village of character

Situated on the Gras de Labeaume plateau, in the foothills of the Cévennes, this village is nestled against limestone cliffs : stone dominates the Labeaume landscape. There's also a large square shaded by century-old plane trees and a chapel with an extraordinary view of some 20 bell towers. From Labeaume, several hiking trails lead to the many dolmens in the area.

5. Vogüé, in the shadow of its castle

North of Balazuc, the village of Vogüé lies along the banks of the Ardèche River, against a backdrop of limestone cliffs. It is overlooked by its castle, which can be visited freely and offers a splendid view of the Ardèche mountains from its hanging gardens. Most of the village's medieval houses are to be found at the foot of the château, and make up an interesting ensemble. Vogüé is one of France's "most beautiful villages".

6. Banne, a picturesque village in Ardèche

Banne is a name of Celtic origin meaning "needle" or "summit". West of Vallon-Pont-d'Arc and in the extreme south of the Ardèche, this village offers a sublime panorama of the Bois de Païolive, a must-see in the Ardèche. A village of character, Banne was built between the limestone slope of the Ardèche and the rock of the Cévennes, giving it a unique profile. Twenty-seven dolmens bear precious witness to a thousand years of history.

7. Ruoms, stone country

Fortified in the Middle Ages, Ruoms has preserved its six defensive towers. In the south of the Ardèche, this village is famous for the stone it once quarried to build such famous monuments as Montpellier's theater and Avignon's new bridge. From Ruoms, take the picturesque route des défilés to Largentière, where tunnels and vaults alternate. Carved into the rock in the ^19th century, it offers spectacular views of the limestone cliffs and the Ardèche river below. Want to discover more medieval villages? Discover our ranking of most beautiful medieval towns in France !

8. Ajoux, perched beauty

Ajoux is a tiny village of less than 100 inhabitants, located 18 km from Privas. You won't be able to miss it from the road, with its remarkable volcanic rock! The village, perched at an altitude of 750 m, lies at its foot. On a clear day, you can see the Alps and the Rhône Valley from the top of the rock. Ajoux is also known as the home of a manufacturer of traditional caravans, a cutting-edge craft worth discovering! It's even possible to try out one of these gypsy caravans for rent on an unusual overnight stay.

9. Alba la romaine, a historic village

The Gallo-Roman capital of the Helvians, Alba la Romaine is proud of its rich heritage, as evidenced by remains such as the forum and paved roads . To find out more, visit MuséAL, a museum displaying objects discovered during excavations on the archaeological site. Finally, after a dive into history, stop off at Place du Château, in the shade of the plane trees, to enjoy the typical atmosphere of this village where life is good.

10. Vinezac, land of vineyards

South of Aubenas, in southern Ardèche, Vinezac takes its name from its renowned vineyards. In a landscape where vineyards and olive groves reign supreme, the white and ochre stones sparkle in the sunlight, creating a picture-postcard setting. A fortified village, Vinezac has preserved vestiges of its medieval past, such as its Romanesque church, whose twenty or so sculpted capitals have earned it a place on the list of historic monuments.

11. Labastide-de-Virac, between Languedoc and Vivarais

Located in the southern Ardèche, between Vallon-Pont-d'Arc and Aven d'Orgnac, Labastide de Virac is perched on a rocky outcrop. A medieval village, Labastide de Virac is best visited for its Château des Roures, a ^15th-century edifice steeped in history that witnessed the Wars of Religion and the Camisards revolt. There's also a silk-mill and a silk eco-museum, where you can admire silkworms weaving their cocoons.

12. Largentière, medieval town

Largentière is one of France's smallest sub-prefectures, with fewer than 2,000 inhabitants. The village owes its name to the silver-lead mines that were exploited here from the ^10th to the ^15th century. Largentière is overlooked by the Château des Évêques, which stands on a rocky outcrop. It is not open to the public, but medieval events are often held there in summer. The ^13th-century church of Notre-Dame-des-Pommiers is also worth a visit.

13. Bidon, the charm of the Ardèche

Bidon is located on the Gras plateau - you can't make it up! Behind this charming name lies a picturesque village where it's pleasant to stroll through the narrow streets and under the arches. Close to the Ardèche gorges, Bidon offers a sublime setting in the middle of the garrigue. Several megaliths, such as the Champvermeil dolmen, bear witness to the village's prehistoric presence.

14. Saint-Remèze, between vines and lavender

On the edge of the Ardèche gorges, in the heart of the nature reserve, Saint-Remèze is a charming village with fewer than 900 inhabitants. In summer, the lavender that surrounds it offers an ephemeral spectacle of beauty. A museum is dedicated to this fragrant plant. Saint-Remèze is also home to the grotte de la Madeleine, one of the most beautiful in the Ardèche region, highlighted by a sound and light show during the visit.

15. Valvignères, Ardèche wine country

The wines of Valvignères were already highly appreciated by the Gallo-Romans. The village, then known as Vallis Vinaria (the valley of the vine), has very few remains of this period, but a cooperative winery pays tribute to its long winegrowing tradition. Instead, Valvignères bo asts well-preserved medieval remains such as ramparts and towers. Numerous hiking trails, such as the Tour des Crêtes, which offers a fine view of Mont Ventoux, are also available to explore the surrounding area.

16. Saint-Laurent-Sous-Coiron, a village rich in history

It's the highest village in the Ardèche... Welcome to Saint-Laurent-Sous-Coiron, a charming village at the foot of the Coiron massif that attracts visitors with its historic heritage and magnificent scenery of valleys, hills and cliffs. The village has a long history dating back to medieval times , which is still visible in the town's buildings and monuments. The Château de Saint-Laurent, built in the ^11th century, is a jewel of medieval architecture that dominates the town and offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding region. The ^12th-century Romanesque church is also a must-see for visitors looking to explore the town's history. Discover our Top 10 medieval cities in Europe !

17. Ailhon, undeniably one of the most beautiful villages in Ardèche

With its cobbled streets and stone buildings dating back to the Middle Ages, Ailhon is a historic gem with authentic rural charm. You can admire remains dating back to Roman times, such as temple ruins and thermal baths, as well as the ^12th-century Romanesque church, a fine example of religious architecture from this period. The village is surrounded by magnificent scenery, with the Massif Central mountains on the horizon and vineyards and lavender fields stretching as far as the eye can see. Perfect for nature lovers!

18. Boucieu-le-Roi, a village of authentic charm in the Ardèche

Nestled in the Doux valley, the small village of Boucieu-le-Roi is renowned for its natural beauty and rich historical heritage. Boucieu-le-Roi's town center is characterized by cobbled streets and stone houses, testimony to its medieval past. As you stroll through the village streets, you'll discover many historic buildings, such as the Romanesque church of Sainte-Madeleine and the Château de Boucieu-le-Roi, which today houses a museum on local history.

How to visit the Ardèche

Our selection has made you want to go to the Ardèche, but you don't know which campsite to choose? Discover our selection and find out which of our 10 must-visit campsites is right for you ! And if you're a motorcycle fan, check out our article on the the most beautiful roads to discover the Ardèche by motorcycle! The picturesque roads attract bikers and motorists alike, who have plenty of time to enjoy the scenery. To organize your stay in the Ardèche in the best possible way, go here to our dedicated page!

When should you visit the Ardèche?

We recommend that you go in summer, when the river's white waters are full of canoeing and kayaking enthusiasts. The Ardèche summer is punctuated by many sporting events involving hiking, mountain biking, trail running and canoeing. There are also festivals and village fêtes. In July, there's the Circus Festival in Alba-la-Romaine; in August, winegrowers showcase their vintages; in September, Tournon-sur-Rhône hosts a comedy festival; in October, the Castagnades are a celebration of chestnuts... Avoid winter, when snow and ice make driving in the mountains a little dangerous, and prefer school vacations to come with the kids, as the Ardèche is an ideal family destination: swimming in summer, visits to prehistory museums, discovery of caves, themed hikes... However, many facilities close in winter. Likewise, many restaurants and hotels are only open in summer. Did you enjoy our article on the most beautiful villages in Ardèche? Check out our selection of the 15 most beautiful villages in the Provence-Alpes-Côte-d'Azur region!

Where to sleep in Ardèche?

The Ardèche is an ideal region for nature lovers looking for a peaceful getaway in enchanting surroundings. If you're looking for accommodation in one of the villages featured, here's a selection of 3 hotels located in them. - In Vallon-Pont-d'Arc Le Belvédère is located 300m from the Pont d'Arc. It features a gourmet restaurant and beautiful rooms with balconies. To find out more, click here ! - In Labeaume Hotel La Garenne features Provencal-style rooms and a breathtaking view of the limestone cliffs. To book one or more nights at this establishment, click here ! - In Banne The Auberge de Banne offers 12 rooms above a chic restaurant. The establishment uses local produce, which it serves as a buffet, and has a swimming pool. Click here for if you'd like to know more about the hotel's availability!