Listed as one of “The Most Beautiful Villages in France”, Balazuc is certainly worth a visit when holidaying in the Ardèche. This cliffside village overlooking the river of the same name is a true reflection of the stunning region in which it lies: authentic, green and bursting with charm!
When you wander around Balazuc with friends, your special someone or your clan, expect plenty of nature, a good dose of historical architecture, a touch of easy living and a dash of sports, whether on land or water. Spice it all up with some luscious cuisine and a unique historical legacy, and you’ll have all the ingredients that make this Ardèche village of character so popular.
Your Sandaya campsite is just a stone’s throw away from the Gorges de l’Ardèche and the Pont d’Arc, two of the most spectacular natural sites in the Ardèche, and the ideal base from which to explore the area. Amid this lush green setting, make the most of the amenities designed to make your stay a memorable one, including the water park, spa, free children’s clubs and direct access to the river where you can splash around or go canoeing. What more could you wish for?
When you visit Balazuc, make sure you take your towel and swimsuit! Surprised? Well, you’ll need them to make the most of... the local beach! Anyone who dives in for a refreshing swim in the clear river water, which contrasts beautifully with the deep green vegetation and the blue-tinted stone façades, will long cherish the memory in their hearts and minds.
An excellent idea for a family day out, the Museum of the Ardèche will take you on a fascinating journey 500 million years back in time! With its fantastic collection of authentic fossils on display in a space covering almost 200 m², discover the history of the Ardèche’s geology and landscapes. And to top things off, you can join in an excavation workshop or explore the dinosaur gallery, which is sure to thrill your budding palaeontologists!
Say the Ardèche river and you’ll think canoeing! Ideal for a trip out with that special someone, it would be a shame not to give this sport a try in such an idyllic setting as the Gorges de l’Ardèche. Board your canoe, paddle in hand and life jacket strapped on, and set off for a romantic escapade along the river with your one and only.
Back on dry land, stroll hand in hand around the historic centre of Balazuc to round off your lovely day together. From the feudal castle, now converted into a guest house, to the Romanesque church and 12th-century square keep, the historic heart and sheer charm of Balazuc never fail to astound.
Another idea for a trip out with the family: La Ferme aux Crocodiles wildlife park in Pierrelatte. Crocodiles, lizards, snakes, turtles, fish and birds are part of a merry menagerie that is sure to appeal to visitors of every age.
If you want to take home a souvenir Made in Ardèche, head for La Maison des Artisans where you are sure to find something to your liking from among the pottery, handmade jewellery and local organic produce.
You’ll be glad you brought your camera to capture all these happy times with your family or your beloved in the Ardèche. Smile and say “Ardèèèèèèche”!
Chestnuts, Picodon cheese, PDO wines, olive oil, truffles and “caillette”, a meatball speciality... there are so many regional specialities to be discovered – so don’t hold back!
