Guided walking tour of the Ardeche in France | Jennifer Pryke
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Traveller Tale: Walking in the Ardeche
Read Grahame's experiences of walking in the central French region of
Ardeche. Considered an 'off the beaten track' destination within France, travellers are often thrilled by the warm hospitality of the locals and the hidden gems to be found in the French countryside.
The
Walking in the Ardeche is a guided tour that is centre-based, with a professional guide leading walkers on different daily itineraries.
Over to you, Grahame, and thanks for providing insight into your trip!
Why did you choose to walk in the Ardeche?
We have previously travelled and walked in France however wanted to experience a different area that was off the main tourist route.
How did you prepare for your walk?
We do a lot of walking and, fortunately, maintain a good level of fitness so we didn't need any extra preparations.
What was the overall highlight of walking in the Ardeche?
Hard to pick one! A different walk every day was a highlight.
What was your favourite town in the Ardeche?
Le Puy en Velay. Historic, picturesque, friendly, and beautiful! 😍
What was the scenery you walked through like?
Standout views every day whilst walking. Fields of flowers, amazing trees. Historic churches, villages, farms, cuckoos that you could hear but never see. It had it all.
What was the local French cuisine like?
Fondue night, yum. Different salads every day, not to mention crusty breads, jams and the cheese!!!
How challenging did you find the trail?
Moderate.
[Daily walks are between 5-6 hours on undulating and sometimes mountainous terrain. Flexibility is the key to the walking, where you can choose to walk a full or half day, take on a challenging hike or an easy hike (dependant on number of hikers participating). The accent is on keeping a relaxed pace to take in all of the attractions, with time to stop and take photos. You will need a reasonable level of fitness to participate fully in this adventure.]
What surprised you the most about your trip?
The high quality of everything.
Can you share advice for other travellers thinking about walking in the Ardeche?
Be reasonably fit, relax and go with the flow. The French love you to enjoy their country.
The Ardeche is a hidden gem in France. Do you have any hidden gems to share? Let us know in the comment section below.